Ah, autumn! A season filled with cozy scarves, stylish boots, crackling bonfires, and warm apple cider. It’s that perfect time of year when everyone seems eager to share images of fall foliage and steaming mugs on social media with captions like “Hello, Fall!”
My family typically schedules photo sessions one or two times a year, depending on my mood and the budget. We haven’t captured any moments since last Christmas, so I’m particularly looking forward to this year’s fall photos, especially since they’ll mark our last session as a family of four, doubling as family and maternity pictures. The best shots will be featured on our holiday card.
While I personally adore fall photography, the tips shared by professional photographers can help elevate any family photo experience. Here are their top recommendations:
- Prioritize Comfort Over Matching
“The key is wearing something that makes you feel fantastic. For children, avoid forcing them into uncomfortable outfits as it will show in the pictures. Instead of matching entirely, opt for coordinated colors. Choose a couple of accent shades like deep red and mustard to tie everyone together. And please, no matching white t-shirts and jeans unless you’re aiming for a ‘90s vibe!” — Sarah Jones, Sarah’s Photography, Nashville, TN. - Dress Up, But Keep It Simple
“Dresses add a lovely flow to the photos and look great on camera. Men could wear colors that complement the women without matching exactly—think a soft pink dress for her and a navy shirt for him. Layers are also a great choice! But remember, comfort is key; if you don’t usually wear heels or a suit, don’t start now!” — Emily Green, Green Lens Photography, Chicago, IL. - Embrace Candid Moments
“I focus on capturing families in their natural settings, whether it’s at the park, beach, or during a cherished tradition like pumpkin picking. My favorite shots show families interacting, with no props or stiff poses, just pure, loving moments.” — Michael Brown, Michael’s Family Photography, Austin, TX. - Encourage Kids to Be Playful
“The best family photos are those that reveal your true selves. While posed shots are nice, it’s unrealistic to expect kids to sit still. Forcing them only leads to unhappy expressions. Let them be silly!” — Sarah. - Bring Comfort Items
“If your child has a favorite blanket or stuffed animal, bring it along! I’d much rather photograph a joyful child holding a teddy bear than a distressed one trying to fit a Pinterest-perfect scenario.” — Michael. - Infuse Your Personalities
“You can’t mess up your photos! Bring snacks, water, and small toys for your kids—and maybe some treats for the adults too. Wear comfortable shoes for walking between locations, and trust me to find the best lighting; I’m focused on the details that create stunning photos.” — Emily. - Let the Photographer Into Your Life
“I once spent an entire day with a family, capturing everything from morning routines to bedtime stories. It was an intimate glimpse into their lives, and everyone felt at ease. The best photos come when parents let their kids be themselves without stressing over perfect poses.” — Sarah. - Don’t Shy Away from Adventure
“I once had a family shoot in the rain. Armed with clear umbrellas, we embraced the weather and ended up with some unique, joyful photos that most would shy away from. The kids had a blast splashing in puddles!” — Emily. - Cherish Your Unique Story
“During a shoot for a family celebrating their rainbow baby, they included a bear that honored their first daughter, who passed away. Their living daughter interacted with the bear, creating special photos that encompassed their family’s journey.” — Michael. - Simplicity Over Perfection
You don’t need to invest in identical outfits or threaten your kids to sit still. A skilled photographer can capture genuine moments, even if your son is munching a granola bar or your daughter is distracted. With the right mindset and these pro tips, family photography can be a fun and relaxing experience.
If you’re interested in family photos or related topics, you can explore more about home insemination at Home Insemination Kit or learn about fertility journeys at Couples Fertility Journey. For information on pregnancy resources, visit Healthline.
In summary, family photos don’t have to be a source of stress. With the right preparation, a comfortable atmosphere, and a focus on genuine interactions, you can create beautiful memories that truly reflect your family’s spirit.