August 10, 2024
The Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Fall Family Photo Outfits
You’ve found an open date on your busy calendar, hired a family photographer, lined up a location you love. But what should you wear for your fall family photoshoot? The great news is, there are lots of options when it comes to choosing the best colors for family pictures outside.
As a Los Angeles family photographer, I work with dozens of families each fall. Whether you’re planning for a holiday mini session, or a longer family portrait session, picking what to wear for fall family photos doesn’t have to be stressful.
This style guide breaks down 5 easy color palettes that look great for outdoor family sessions.
Here in Los Angeles, it’s often still pretty warm when taking holiday family pictures so layers are great to work into your wardrobe too — they can be added or removed as needed.
Fall Family Outfit Color Scheme #1: Cool Tones
Cool tones are a great go-to fall family photo color scheme because most people already own pieces in this palette. Mix denim, navy, or lighter shades of blue with neutrals like white or ivory and you’re family photo ready!
Images by Rachel Stelter Photography
Fall Family Outfit Color Scheme #2: Jewel Tones
Whether you’re using the photos for your holiday card or just want to add a pop of color — I absolutely love outdoor fall family photo outfits that incorporate jewel tones. Rich and vibrant, jewel tones contrast with natural outdoor settings and make a statement for your family photos.
Moms — try a sapphire, ruby, citirine, dark teal, emerald, or plum color for your dress and dress other family members in neutrals. So that you don’t contrast too much with the rest of the family, try including one pattern that ties into the pop of color.
Images by Rachel Stelter Photography
Fall Family Outfit Color Scheme #3: Warm Earthy Tones
Warm earthy tones are another one of my favorite fall family photo color schemes. Burnt orange, dark khaki shades, and burgundy contrast against the greenery that is usually abundant in a natural setting.
And if orange isn’t really your vibe, try working in a pattern to compliment but break up solid colors. You can also have some family members dress in denim, navy, or dusty shades of blue to compliment warmer outfits.
Images by Rachel Stelter Photography
Fall Family Outfit Color Scheme #4: Christmas Inspired Ideas
Looking for ideas on what to wear for holiday family photos? If you are using your photos for your annual Christmas card, then dressing in Christmas colors adds a more festive, holiday touch. Instead of autumnal hues, focus on wardrobe elements with dark red and green, without being overly matchy.
While you can certainly get playful and add Santa hats or quirky holiday sweaters, it doesn’t have to be over-the-top to bring the holiday charm.
I love plaids as they incorporate a few colors that other family members can then play off of. Try a large Buffalo Check shirt or a Stewart Tartan plaid. Just avoid having too many family members in prints as outfits can start to compete with each other. For a family of 3 or 4, stick to a max of 2 people in a pattern. Kids can wear matching plaids, or mix a large plaid with a smaller print on another family member.
Images by Rachel Stelter Photography
Fall Family Outfit Color Scheme #5: Neutrals & Light Colors
If you want family portraits that feel timeless with wardrobe that isn’t specific to fall or Christmas, then soft neutral colors are a great option. Light solid colors give a soft and airy feel to your photos. Light solid colors light blue or dusty blush tones, cream, khaki, and ivory all make for beautiful timeless family portraits.
Images by Rachel Stelter Photography
Whatever color scheme you choose for your outdoor fall family photo outfits, pick pieces you love and feel comfortable in! Family members’ outfits don’t need to match. Instead, focus on pieces that compliment each other, or coordinate by tying in similar shades or tones.
As a mom, I find planning my own outfit first provides a good foundation. Once I’ve found a dress or more casual look that I love and feel confident in, it’s easy to tie in coordinating outfits for the rest of the family. I love Baltic Born for photoshoot outfits for moms.