What do I wear?!
How to Choose the Perfect Outfits for Your Fall Family Photo Shoot
Fall is a beautiful time to capture your family’s unique bond with the rich colors of the season as your backdrop. But one of the most common questions I get at Three Chickadees Photography is: "What should we wear?" Choosing the right outfits can make all the difference in creating stunning, timeless photos that you’ll cherish forever. Here’s a guide to help you pick the perfect outfits for your fall family photo shoot.
1. Embrace the Colors of Fall
Fall is known for its warm, earthy tones—think rich oranges, deep reds, mustard yellows, and cozy browns. These colors naturally complement the changing leaves and add a seasonal touch to your photos. Consider incorporating these shades into your outfits for a cohesive look.
- Pro Tip: Start with a neutral base like cream, gray, or beige, and add pops of fall colors with accessories like scarves, hats, or sweaters.
2. Coordinate, Don’t Match
While it’s important for your family’s outfits to look cohesive, avoid going too matchy-matchy. Instead, choose a color palette and let each family member’s outfit coordinate within that range. This approach adds depth to your photos while keeping everyone looking unified.
- Pro Tip: Pick three to four complementary colors and mix them throughout your family’s outfits. For example, one person could wear a burgundy sweater, another a mustard scarf, and another in dark jeans and a cream blouse.
3. Layer Up for Texture and Interest
Fall is the perfect season to experiment with layers, which can add texture and dimension to your photos. Think about incorporating cardigans, vests, or jackets to give your outfits a cozy and stylish look.
- Pro Tip: Layering also allows for flexibility in changing weather. You can start with a jacket or sweater and remove it for a different look during the shoot.
4. Keep Patterns Subtle
Patterns can add visual interest to your photos, but they should be used sparingly. Opt for subtle, classic patterns like plaid, stripes, or florals that won’t overwhelm the image. It’s best to have one person wear a pattern while the others stick to solid colors.
- Pro Tip: If someone is wearing a patterned piece, pull colors from that pattern for the rest of the family’s outfits to ensure everything ties together.
5. Consider the Setting
Think about where your photos will be taken. If you’re planning an outdoor shoot in Bartlett or the Memphis area, consider how your outfits will look against the natural backdrop. Warm tones and earthy neutrals tend to blend beautifully with fall foliage.
- Pro Tip: If your shoot is in a more urban setting or studio, you might want to choose slightly bolder colors to stand out against the background.
6. Comfort is Key
While style is important, comfort should never be compromised. Make sure everyone is dressed in clothes that fit well and feel comfortable, especially if children are involved. Comfortable clothes will help everyone relax and enjoy the session, resulting in more natural smiles and candid moments.
- Pro Tip: Make sure shoes are practical for the location of your shoot. If you’re planning on walking through a park or forest, opt for stylish but comfortable footwear.
7. Plan Ahead and Prepare
Once you’ve chosen your outfits, do a quick dress rehearsal a few days before your shoot. Make sure everything fits well and that everyone feels confident in their look. This also gives you time to make any last-minute adjustments if needed.
- Pro Tip: Lay out each outfit the night before, including accessories, to ensure a stress-free start to your photo day.
Book Your Fall Family Photo Shoot Today!
At Three Chickadees Photography, we’re here to help you every step of the way—from choosing the perfect outfits to capturing your family’s special moments. Whether you're in Bartlett, Memphis, or the Mid-South area, our fall family sessions are designed to showcase your family’s unique style and love.
