Tips for What to Wear for Your Fall Family Photos

Fall has arrived in San Francisco, and many of you are enjoying the beautiful weather by scheduling a Fall Mini Session or a Fall Family Photo Session with me. I know you're excited to have a new family portrait to gift to relatives and grandparents, hang in your home, or use for holiday cards. With so many eyes on your family photos, you’ll want to look your best! That's why I've created this handy guide with tips for what to wear to your photo session.

The first thing you should think about when it comes to your outfit is your location.

• Dress appropriately for the weather and the location. For example, if we’re taking photos in the Presidio under shaded trees, it’s likely to be chilly, so I’d layer up! You’ll also need to have appropriate shoes for walking around.

• Also, consider the colors of your surroundings. Complement them, not blend into them. For example, if we're in a green grassy field, don't wear green!

The second thing to consider when choosing your outfit is your end goal.

• Are you going to use the family photos only for holiday cards, or do you want them to be displayed throughout the year? Think about how colors might look in your home and consider how they would match with other decorations.

And Finally, your outfits should be comfortable and reflect your family’s personality!

• If you enjoy dressing up in fancy clothes, go for it! If you’re super casual and laid-back, wear your favorite cozy outfits! There isn’t a right or wrong when it comes to the type of clothes or style…that’s up to you!

Once you’ve decided on the style, here are some general tips:

• For coordinating families and large groups, choose a color family like jewel tones or earth tones. If you’d like to simplify it further, have everyone in neutrals and add in pops of color. Mid-tones like navy, gray, and chocolate photograph really nicely.

• Let the kids have fun with their outfits! They can wear brighter colors and patterns, and bring along fun accessories.

• Stay away from logos or too many prints. When in doubt, go with solids. To keep things from looking boring, include textures, like chunky knits, or fun accessories to add a punch of fun.

• Spruce up your clothes with a good lint roller and a pressing, if needed. Pet hair, lint, and every little wrinkle will show, especially on solid, dark-colored clothing.

• Don’t forget the shoes! Your feet will most likely be photographed, so make sure they’re in top shape. If we’re doing a lot of walking, but you want to wear fancy shoes, bring along an easy pair of flats for moving around.

• To keep warm in chilly SF, bring along some layers. A leather jacket, trench coat, peacoat, denim jacket, and knit cardigans will keep you warm and add dimension and variety to your look.

Here are some outfit ideas and inspiration for your family photos: