Styling for Fall Family Portraits - Indianapolis Family Photo Session


Fall is prime time for family portraits in Indianapolis - with all the beautiful colors! I know figuring out what to wear for your family portraits can be tricky. But trust me - outfits can really make the difference in your final images. This family made it look effortless - with their amazingly coordinated style. Let me share some tips that help my families when it comes to styling for their fall family portraits!

1. Embrace the Autumn Palette


The fall season is full of warm tones - rich reds, deep oranges, and golden yellows. When selecting outfits for your family, consider incorporating these hues into your wardrobe choices. Earthy tones such as burgundy, mustard, and forest green complement the autumn landscape and create a harmonious blend with the surroundings.


2. Coordinated, Not Matchy-Matchy


Gone are the days of perfectly matching outfits. Instead, opt for a coordinated color scheme that allows each family member to express their individual style while maintaining a cohesive look. Mix and match complementary colors and textures to add visual interest without overshadowing the natural beauty of the season. I love how this mama incorporated the various colors and tones of her dress across everyone else's outfits in her family.

A family of five poses joyfully in a sunlit field with tall, golden grasses. They appear happy and relaxed in warm, autumnal tones
A family of five poses joyfully in a field at sunset with tall dry grass. The group includes a baby and two children.
A family of five stands in a field of tall dry grass with bare trees in the background. They hold hands and smile warmly at each other

4. Consider the Location


Whether you choose a rustic park, a charming orchard, or a tranquil lakeside setting, the location of your fall family portrait session can influence your outfit choices. If you're surrounded by autumn foliage, neutral tones and earthy colors can help your family stand out against the vibrant backdrop. Alternatively, if your setting is more urban, consider outfits with a blend of modern and classic elements.


5. Timeless Classics


While it's essential to embrace the spirit of the season, timeless classics never go out of style. Neutral colors such as beige, cream, and navy can serve as a versatile base for your outfits. These hues provide a timeless elegance that ensures your family portraits remain relevant and beautiful for years to come.

A father dances joyfully with daughter in a sunlit field with tall golden grass.
A young boy sits in a field of tall, golden grass. He wears a burgundy jacket, smiling warmly at the camera

6. Personalize with Accessories:


Small details can make a significant impact. Encourage your clients to personalize their outfits with accessories that reflect their personalities. Think cozy knit hats, stylish boots, or a statement piece like a vintage jacket that adds a touch of individuality to each family member's look.

Young person with long hair and a shaved side, wearing a black leather jacket with colorful floral embroidery, standing outdoors

The art of styling for fall family portraits lies in finding a delicate balance between embracing the autumnal palette and allowing each family member's personality to shine through. By considering the location, coordinating colors, and incorporating layers and textures, you can create a visual symphony that celebrates the warmth, love, and togetherness of the season. As a photographer, I believe that the right outfit choices can transform a simple portrait into a cherished family heirloom.

Two women smiling warmly at each other in a sunlit field, exuding affection. One gently touches the other's face.
A young boy sits on a wooden crate in a field of tall, golden grass. He wears a burgundy jacket, tan pants, and brown shoes, smiling warmly
A smiling man holds a cheerful baby in an autumn field, with tall golden grasses and bare trees, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere.
A man with glasses kisses a woman's temple at sunset. She closes her eyes and smiles. The woman wears a floral pattern dress
Young person with long hair and a shaved side, wearing a black leather jacket with colorful floral embroidery, standing outdoors
A woman stands in a field of tall, dry grass with her children. The setting sun creates a warm glow, conveying a loving scene
Father carries young son on his back in autumn field. Both are laughing, with the child wearing a burgundy jacket. Warm, joyful atmosphere.
A baby with light blonde hair in a fuzzy brown sweater sits in a wooden box, holding twigs. The background is a blurred field of dry grass
A family of five lies on a blanket in a field of dry grass. They are smiling and playing, creating a warm, joyful, and cozy atmosphere.
A family of five poses in a field at sunset with tall dry grass. The group includes a baby and two children.
A family of five poses joyfully in a field at sunset with tall dry grass. The group includes a baby and two children.
A couple holds hands, walking on a wooden path beside water. They smile at each other. An arched bridge and autumn trees in the background

If you are looking for an Indianapolis Indiana Family Photographer, I would love to hang out with your family! I service Indianapolis and the surrounding areas including but not limited to Carmel, Fishers, and Hendricks County. You can see more information about my family sessions here.