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.

What to Wear for Fall Family Photos

1. GO FOR TIMELESS
2. WHEN IN DOUBT, NEUTRAL
3. MIX + MATCH
4. KEEP IT INTERESTING-TEXTURE + VARIETY
5. 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). Same thing goes for the exact same pattern (i.e. avoid a matching plaid pattern). 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 (moto jacket, trench style jacket) to your outfit. Beanie hats, hair bows, jewelry also add visual interest and are a great idea!

I have some of my favorite 2025 fall family photo styles and inspiration in this Pinterest board (and will keep adding to it), so go check it out. If you book a full family session with me this fall, we can create our own board for the style/vibe of your session 🙂

Want to book a fall family session with me this year? Feel free to reach out via my contact page.

If you want to go back to some of the basics, 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).