Fall Family Photo Session Outfits – 2023

Oct 14, 2023

The most popular question I get from clients is “what do I wear for our family photo session?” It can be intimidating trying to pick out fall family photo session outfits for the family. But I’ve got you covered with ways to keep it simple and even links to my favorite fall outfits on sale right now.

Here are some of my general rules for what to wear for your family photo session.

General family photo shoot guidelines:

  1. Choose an “inspiration outfit” for one family member and build the other fall family photo session outfits around that. I typically choose a patterned top or dress and then pull out the colors for other family members to wear
  2. Avoid all black and all white. Just make sure to pair them with a colorful top (and bring a roller to remove dog hair if you have a super fuzzy dog).
  3. Alternative neutrals – Instead of black or white, choose a deep navy blue or cream. A textured cream top (think cozy cable-knit sweater) keeps things light without being bland.
  4. Matching outfits – try not to have more than two family members wear the same pattern on a large piece of clothing. For example: the daughter wears a plaid dress. Brother could wear matching plaid pants, or a vest or a bowtie with the same pattern. Does that pattern come in scarf? If so, mom could wear that or if you have two daughters, the other daughter could wear a matching hairbow in the same pattern or even in a skirt and a solid color top.
  5. Don’t forget the dog! Find a bandana or leash and collar you love and you can even use it as the “inspiration outfit.” Make sure your dog’s leash and collar are not too worn or dirty.
  6. Remember your shoes! Don’t wait until you get ready to leave for your photo session to decide which shoes to wear. This is especially important for the kids as last year’s fall shoes may not be too small.

Now check out the outfits I’m loving for your fall family photo session in North Carolina on my Pinterest Board. Here is how I would style a family using this floral dress from Janie and Jack (my go-to store to find our own family inspiration outfits).

Fall family photo session outfits in teal and light pink