What to Wear for Your Family Photoshoot This Fall: Tips for Comfort and Confidence
Choosing the right outfit for your annual family photos is key to capturing beautiful, timeless moments. It's not just about looking good—it's about feeling confident and comfortable so your true selves shine through. With fall's vibrant colors and cozy vibes, there's plenty of room to play with styles and textures. Here are a few tips and outfit ideas to help you and your family look and feel your best for your fall photoshoot.
Keep It Comfortable and Confident
First and foremost, your outfit should make you feel amazing. Whether you're drawn to classic denim and cozy sweaters or prefer chic dresses and tailored pants, the key is to choose something that feels true to you. Comfort is crucial—when you feel good in what you're wearing, it shows in the photos. I usually suggest starting with whoever is the most opinionated about their outfit first. That way, it’s easier to coordinate the other outfits based on that one.
Stores like Target, H&M, and Zara are my go to for kids clothing and the guys.
Some of my favorite online stores for women’s dresses are Baltic Born and Piper and Scoot. They usually have so many options and I’ve never gone wrong with a beautiful dress for mom. Its a great way to get some pattern into your photos as well.
*Just a little tip for patterns in photos. Try to stay away from tiny patterns or stripes as they can sometimes mess with the camera and end up with a funny look pattern on the final image. If you have any questions about this, feel free to send me a photo and I can help you.
Choose a Cohesive Color Palette
A great way to ensure your family looks put together is by selecting a cohesive color palette. Fall is perfect for rich, warm tones like deep reds, mustard yellows, forest greens, and earthy browns. If your family is more into cool tones, cream, blues, and khaki are also great and you can never go wrong with grey white and black. Pick two or three colors and incorporate them into each family member's outfit. This creates a harmonious look without everyone matching exactly. Think layers and textures—like a mustard cardigan, a plaid scarf, or a forest green dress. Fabric textures are a great way to incorporate different feels within the same color palette without feeling too matchy-matchy.
For a more in depth explanation (with links) to a similar color palette as the Cordero family, check out this blog post!
Consider the Location
The setting of your photoshoot can influence your outfit choices. Here are some suggestions based on different locations:
Park
For a natural, autumnal backdrop, think about blending in with the surroundings. Earthy tones, cozy knits, and comfortable boots work wonderfully. Layering is not only practical but also adds visual interest. A mix of sweaters, jackets, and scarves can keep everyone warm and stylish.
I typically like to recommend shoes that are comfortable and you wouldn’t mind getting dirty since there are some dirty patches and possibly uneven ground.
Studio
For an indoor setting, keep things relaxed and intimate. Soft, neutral colors and comfortable fabrics like cotton or linen create a cozy atmosphere. This is a great opportunity to showcase your family's personality. The studio is also great if you want to go for a more polished look. Dark jeans, sleek jackets, fancy dresses, and ankle boots can strike the right balance between casual and chic.
This year in the studio, we will be utilizing Christmas trees for some classic holiday portraits. Emerald green, sage green and black and white all look really beautiful in the studio as well.
The studio is also great if you’d like to do something more fun and home-y like matching pjs for the fam!
Beach
For a sandy, sunlit backdrop, think about outfits that flow with the wind and are easy to move in. Lightweight fabrics, rolled-up sleeves, and bare feet or simple sandals work wonderfully. Layering isn’t as necessary, but bringing a light cover-up or a shawl can add variety to your look and keep you comfortable as the evening cools down. A mix of sundresses, shorts, and casual shirts can keep everyone looking stylish and feeling relaxed. Keep in mind that we will be in the sand so fancy shoes or high heels are not recommended. I love a good bare feet in the sand moment.
Practical Tips for the Perfect Outfit
- Layers Are Your Friend: Fall weather can be unpredictable, so layering is both stylish and practical. Think cardigans, vests, and light jackets that can be easily added or removed.
- Comfort Is Key: Make sure everyone can move freely. Avoid stiff or restrictive clothing, especially for young children who need to run and play. If your kids feel uncomfortable, that will come across in your photos. While I'm not against a little bribery with treats, we want your whole family to leave your session feeling happy and not stressed.
- Focus on Details: Small touches like coordinating shoes, subtle accessories, and well-groomed hair can elevate your look without feeling overly styled.
Confidence Shines Brightest
While it’s easy to get caught up in creating Pinterest-worthy outfits, remember that the most cherished photos are those where everyone feels confident and happy. Choose outfits that reflect your family's unique style and personalities. When you’re comfortable and confident, it shows in every smile and candid moment captured.
Ultimately, the best outfits are the ones that make you feel like the best version of yourself. So, take these tips, have fun with your wardrobe choices, and enjoy creating beautiful memories with your loved ones this holiday season.
