the journal
When I chat with families about scheduling or planning a session, figuring out what to wear is at the top of the stressors list. I am always trying to make life easier, because I know families are busy. Here are my favorite simple tips on what to wear for fall family photos this year.
- GO FOR TIMELESS
- WHEN IN DOUBT, NEUTRAL
- MIX + MATCH
- KEEP IT INTERESTING-TEXTURE + VARIETY
- LAYER + ACCESSORIZE
1. GO FOR TIMELESS
I don’t think you can go wrong with a simple, timeless approach to styling (just like my approach to photography itself). Of course clothing styles will go in and out of trends (i.e. bell bottom jeans), but simple materials such as solid colors, florals, corduroy, etc stand the “test of time”.
2. WHEN IN DOUBT, NEUTRAL
Similar to keeping it simple, neutrals are pretty much always a good idea. If you are picking a few colors or patterns, sprinkle in some neutrals as well.
3. MIX + MATCH
One of the big “no-no”s with styling is to have everyone being too “matchy-matchy”. Pretty please don’t shop Old Navy matching family section for your session. This is not the time to have two kids wear the same outfit or “mommy and me” type of clothing. If colors are too similar (i.e. two greens), it will look distracting and will just blend together in the photographs (aka a blob). If you would like to choose one main color + then try to incorporate different complementary shades and patterns. It also helps to have variety in clothing types, i.e. rompers, overalls, skirts or dresses, instead of all tees and pants. Also mixing and matching patterns can look really good so don’t feel like you need all solids i.e. small/”ditsy” floral will look great next to a simple striped shirt.
4. KEEP IT INTERESTING-TEXTURE + VARIETY
Textures seriously go a long way to add interest to the photograph. Especially with those super sweet detail shots, i.e. holding hands, brushing your child’s hair back from their face etc). Textures that can add variety can include corduroy, lace, linen, knit + leathers (i.e. shoes). Textures are everything from head to toe (shirts, pants/shorts, shoes and even accessories, blankets). I also bring a variety of blankets that all add beautiful texture to my fall sessions.
5. LAYER + ACCESSORIZE
You never know what type of weather you are going to get, especially in the lovely Midwest. And we all know cold babies or kids are not at all smiley or having a good time. Layering also looks good. Add a chunky sweater over a dress, a cute jacket (love the leather fringe style right now) to your outfit. Hair bows, jewelry also add visual interest
What are the trends for 2024 fashion/family photography?
- Double Denim, aka denim on denim (i.e. denim vest or jacket and jeans). There are super cute denim jumpsuits and dresses as well (these are mostly included in my “dusty blue + brown” board.
- Leather and corduroy (think Beyonce Cowboy Carter) including western type boots
- According to EveryMom, Earth Tones are still in. And so are turtlenecks and high necklines.
- Crochet: everything from pants, shirts and dresses
Here are some examples of some color schemes/ideas below.
What 2024 Fall Family Photo Look do you love? Click on the titles for shoppable links!
Did you pick a favorite? Maybe you even just went on a shopping spree. If you want some simple steps on how to start styling your family for upcoming photo session, you should also read this blog about the do’s and don’ts of picking out outfits! Follow along on my Pinterest for updated inspo boards as well.
Ok, so hopefully after reading this you know exactly what to wear for your fall family photos this year (fingers crossed).
