Fall Family Photoshoot with Emily Winnie Photography
Planning a family photoshoot is always exciting, especially during the beautiful fall season in Los Angeles! With so many stunning backdrops available, from golden beaches to lush gardens, the perfect outfit can make your photos truly shine. But don’t worry—dressing your family for a photoshoot doesn’t have to be stressful. Here’s a fun and friendly guide to help you coordinate the best outfits for your upcoming session!
Start with a “Hero Piece”
One of the easiest ways to plan your family’s wardrobe is by focusing on one central outfit, typically for mom or one of the kids, and then building everyone else’s outfits around that. For instance, if mom has a gorgeous jewel-toned dress she’s excited to wear, use that as your starting point. Jewel tones like emerald green, deep burgundy, or sapphire blue are fantastic for fall—they photograph beautifully against various backgrounds, adding warmth and richness to your images. In the header image above, you can see that they built the family’s outfits around the little boy in the middle’s shirt.
Once you’ve chosen your central outfit, think about how the rest of the family can complement it. The goal is to create a cohesive look without being too “matchy-matchy.” For example, if mom’s dress is emerald green, dad might wear a soft grey sweater or navy blue shirt with a different texture or pattern. The kids could wear outfits in lighter shades or neutrals that tie the whole look together.
Choose Your Color Palette Wisely
When selecting your color palette, consider your fall family photoshoot location. In Los Angeles, fall means you have a range of beautiful settings to choose from—whether it’s a sunlit beach, a tree-lined park, or a rustic urban setting. Each backdrop brings its own vibe, so pick colors that will stand out without clashing.
Jewel tones, neutrals, and even beachy pastels are great choices that work well against most backgrounds. For instance, if you’re shooting among dark green trees, an emerald green outfit might blend in too much. To avoid this, break up the color with layers like a contrasting jacket or vest. This not only adds depth to your photos but also ensures your family doesn’t disappear into the scenery!
If you need some help with color palettes and pairing outfits together, check out our inspiration board on Pinterest for ideas!
Shoes Matter More Than You Think
Shoes are often overlooked, but they’re important since they’ll show up in your photos! Make sure everyone’s shoes are not only stylish but also appropriate for the location. If you’re planning a beach shoot, sandals are perfect (or you can go barefoot!), but if you’re heading to a park with pine needles and rough terrain, sturdy shoes are a better choice. For kids, comfort is key—avoid anything that might make them uncomfortable or grumpy during the shoot.
Patterns and Prints: Less is More
While a pop of pattern can add personality to your fall family photos, it’s best to limit bold prints to one person in the group (or a few if it’s a large group). The camera doesn’t always pick up intricate patterns well, which can sometimes result in a distracting effect. A classic checkered dress shirt or a subtle floral print on a dress can be lovely, but steer clear of graphic tees or busy patterns that might compete with the overall look. Soft fabrics tend to photograph really well, so reach for a sweater as opposed to a stiff shirt for dad if you want a cozy vibe! And let’s leave the baseball caps at home—though a cute hat can definitely work, depending on the outfit!
Practical Tips for the Perfect Shoot
When planning your fall family photoshoot outfits, think about the practicalities of an outdoor shoot. The weather in LA can be unpredictable, especially in the fall, so it’s a good idea to be prepared. If you or your kids have long hair, bring along some pins or clips to keep it from blowing into your face. This will save time and frustration during the shoot, especially if it’s a bit breezy.
For younger kids, it’s always helpful to have a plan for keeping them happy and cooperative. Sometimes, the promise of a fun treat or activity after the shoot can work wonders. Let your photographer know if you have something special planned—they can use it as motivation during the session! Also, if your session is close to mealtime, bring along some non-messy snacks and water to keep everyone energized and smiling.
And finally, if your little ones are dressing up, consider bringing a comfy change of clothes for after the shoot. Not only is it a reward in itself, but it also keeps them comfortable and happy once the session is over. This is also a good idea for beach sessions, where there is the potential to get wet.
Wrapping Up
Your fall family photoshoot in Los Angeles should be a fun and memorable experience! By starting with a central outfit, choosing a complementary color palette, and paying attention to details like shoes and patterns, you’ll ensure that your photos turn out beautifully. Remember, the best photos come when everyone is relaxed and enjoying the moment, so plan ahead, have fun, and let your photographer capture your family’s unique style and personality!
Drop me a message and we can plan your perfect fall family photoshoot in Los Angeles!
