Let me be honest with you. The clothes you wear in your family photos matter more than you might think. Color, texture, and fit can completely change the look and feel of your session and your final images.
I get asked about wardrobe all the time, and I send tips to every client because I genuinely want you to feel confident and look amazing in your photos. But sometimes outfits do not come together quite the way we hoped. They can blend into the background, pull focus from your connection, or simply not photograph as beautifully as they could. In this post, I am sharing the most helpful and realistic advice on what to wear for your fall session, along with my favorite places to shop.
Why Wardrobe Matters
You are hiring me to capture something beautiful and timeless. Your outfits help create that feeling. Soft textures, warm tones, and coordinated colors let your family's connection shine. Busy logos, neon colors, or everyone wearing jeans and t-shirts do not have the same effect.
Looks That Work for Fall
Think:
Warm neutrals and earthy tones like camel, cream, rust, olive, and burgundy
Textured fabrics such as knits, linen, gauze, corduroy, or lace
Dresses that flow and move
Layers like cardigans, vests, or jackets
Coordinated, not matching, outfits
Accessories - jewelry, scarves, and hats
Avoid:
Logos and graphics (please no golf shirts)
Neon colors
Fine print patterns like small plaid or small stripes
Everyone in the same pattern or color
Pure white shirts or dresses (think ivory or cream colors)
Where to Shop
These are my favorite places to find outfits that not only look great in person but photograph beautifully:
Baltic Born for flattering, flowy dresses in rich tones and textures
Altar’d State for boho layers, details, maxi dresses, and warm fall colors (they have a store at Polaris Mall in Columbus, Ohio)
Rylee and Cru for adorable, heirloom-worthy girls dresses and accessories
Joyfolie for dreamy, twirl-worthy dresses for young girls and mom
Target for basics in soft colors and solid pieces that are easy to mix and match. They also have great accessories.
Amazon for budget-friendly options. Search for phrases like “rust maxi dress,” “neutral toddler romper,” or “family photo outfit fall”
How to Pull It All Together
Start with ONE outfit you love (usually Mom’s) and build everything else around it one outfit at a time. Remember to:
Mix tones and textures
Keep patterns minimal and subtle
Add simple accessories like boots, hats, jewelry, or bows
Lay out everything together before the session to see how it flows
If you are unsure, text or email me a quick photo of your outfit choices. I am always happy to help before the session!
Before You Go
You are investing in this session and in these memories. Your wardrobe does not need to be fancy or expensive, but it does need to be intentional. A little planning makes a big difference! You’ll be so glad you took the time to plan when you see how beautifully it all comes together.
