10 Fall Family Photo Ideas You Need to Try This Year

10 Fall Family Photo Ideas You Need to Try This Year

With autumn fast approaching, many families are busy planning their fall photo sessions. There are so many beautiful backdrops and colors to take advantage of as you make memories with the people you love. If you’re planning your own shoot and are hunting for some inspiration, here are a few ideas to get you started.

1. Play in the leaves

If this is your first fall family session, you simply have to get a few photos of you and your kids playing and lying in the leaves. Not only are the colors incredible, but these shots instantly portray cheer and joy. 

2. Sit amongst the pumpkins

When you see pumpkins, it’s only natural to think about fall. Whether you have a pumpkin field near to your home or you buy a few for your shoot, this is definitely a prop you should consider for your family session.

3. Pick some apples

If you happen to be close to an apple orchard, this is a perfect setting for your family photo session. The colors are striking and picking a few apples will help your photographer grab some candid shots. You can achieve something similar with a cornfield too. 

4. Create shadows

If you want to give your photos a dramatic effect, schedule your session for later in the day. This allows your photographer to use the colors of the setting sun and a fall backdrop to play with shadows. Picture the silhouettes of your family against a beautiful, natural backdrop. 

5. Play in the park

If fall is starting to take its toll on the trees in your local park, why not use it for your family photo session? There are so many elements in a park that work well in family photos. From the falling leaves to swings and lakes, it’s no wonder this is a firm location favorite. 

6. Bring in Halloween

If you and your children are big fans of Halloween, you could always use it as a theme for your upcoming fall session. Whether you want to dress up or add in a few props to bring the theme across, the choice is yours. 

7. Get cozy

Sometimes, something as simple as a blanket can create the perfect family photos. Find a cozy blanket for your session and let your photographer get a few shots of you and your loved ones laughing and keeping warm.

8. Head to the train tracks 

If you happen to live near train tracks that are no longer active, this is an ideal setting for your next fall family photo session. Chances are, the tracks will be surrounded by colorful leaves and trees, with the actual tracks adding a rustic finishing touch. 

9. Pose on some steps

Stairs are always great for family shots because they make it easier to get close and accommodate people of all sizes. To give it a fall look and feel, find a set of stairs that are covered in autumn leaves.

10. Drink up

Nothing says fall like warm cider or cocoa, so why not incorporate it into your session? This is a particularly nice idea if you choose to have your shoot at home. Make and drink some cocoa with your loved ones for great candid shots. 

If you’re new to the area and need some help finding a location for your fall family session, I’d be happy to speak to you about a few ideas. 

9 Reasons Why a Fall Family Photoshoot is a Good Idea

9 Reasons Why a Fall Family Photoshoot is a Good Idea

It’s that wonderful time of the year, a time of cider, pumpkin patches, and Halloween. It’s also one of the best times to update your family photos.

If you’re not totally convinced that this is an ideal time to schedule a family photo session, here are just a few reasons why you should consider changing your mind.

1. The Colors!

There’s nothing quite like taking a stroll during autumn, purely because of the vibrant colors. The warm tones and changing scenery make for an ideal backdrop for family photos.

2. The Weather is More Comfortable

If you don’t like the idea of being uncomfortable because the temperature is too hot or cold, fall is the best time for your next family photo session. When the weather is cooler, your family members will look more comfortable and relaxed in their photos.

3. It’s Easier to Coordinate Outfits

Fall colors are mostly neutral, making it easy to pick outfits that coordinate. Brown, black, red, orange, and deep purples are all options when choosing your clothing for your session. Remember, your outfits don’t need to match. 

4. Who Doesn’t Want to Play in Leaves?

This is particularly true if you have young children in your family. Fall settings are playful by default, which leaves a lot of room for candid shots with the people you love. Choose a location where you can take advantage of the colorful fallen leaves.

5. Do It for the Upcoming Holidays

If you love sending out personalized greeting cards, this is the ideal time to get a few shots that you can use. Plus, you won’t have to worry about the last-minute photo session rush later in the year.

6. The Colors Blend Well with Most Décor

If you’re planning to print family photos for your home, the fall colors tend to blend in exceptionally well with most home décor. Whether it’s the cool blue sky or the red and brown leaves, these colors are some of the easiest to incorporate into your home. 

7. Take Advantage of Your Sun-Kissed Skin

Since we’re just coming out of summer, you and your family probably still have a bit of a tan. Why not take full advantage of your natural glow and schedule your photo session now? 

8. More Prop Choices

If you love incorporating accessories and props into your photo sessions, fall offers a multitude of choices. From Halloween-themed props to pumpkins and blankets, there is so much you can do to get creative and have some fun. 

9. Beautiful Location Choices

The effects of autumn on trees, grass, plants, buildings, and water makes for some of the most eye-catching backdrops. Whether you head to your local park, a cornfield, or the inactive train tracks in your area, all these locations have a touch of extra character during this time. 

If you’ve never scheduled a fall photo session before, you will soon realize why you should’ve done it sooner. 

What to Expect From Your Fall Mini Session

What to Expect From Your Fall Mini Session

You don’t always need to schedule a full photo session to update your family photo album. Mini sessions are ideal for families with limited availability, as well as those who don’t want too many photos.

If you’ve recently scheduled a fall mini session, here is what you can expect before, on the day of and after your fall mini session.

Choosing an Outfit

The number one rule when choosing an outfit for your family session is to be comfortable. If your clothing makes you uncomfortable in any way, it will show up in your photos. When it comes to choosing a fall-themed outfit, consider the colors associated with this season. You also want to choose clothing you can layer. Your session might start out being slightly chilly, only for things to warm up later on. It’s also important for your outfits to coordinate – not match. If you haven’t already, use Pinterest as a source of inspiration for your clothing.

Getting There on Time

Keep in mind that because mini sessions only last about 30 minutes, photographers usually book several sessions per day. This means, if you’re late, chances are you will need to schedule your session for another time. If your kids are younger, rather plan for delays to ensure you can get to your session on time. If you can no longer make your shoot, most photographers are willing to provide you with a credit for a future session if you cancel your shoot in advance.

There’s Only Room for Your Family

Some people tend to show up to mini sessions with additional family members. Because of the time constraints and to limit distractions, it’s best to only bring along the people who will be part of the shoot. If you want to include extended family, it’s better to schedule a full family shoot.

Planning for Bad Weather

If your fall mini session is taking place outside, rain could affect your plans. We’ll keep an eye on the weather in the days leading up to your session to plan accordingly. 

Proofs

In most cases, you will have your proofs within 2-5 business days. Once you select your favorite images, the final images would be delivered within another 2-5 business days. 

Fall mini sessions are a fun way to spend some quality time with your family and receive some memorable shots for your albums and home. With a little planning and the help of the right photographer, these sessions are nothing to stress about.

How to Make Your Next Family Photo Session a Stress Free One

How to Make Your Next Family Photo Session a Stress Free One

Family photos are truly timeless and such a great keepsake for future generations.  Getting the family together to take those perfect portraits can turn into chaos if not approached correctly. There is usually a lot more to consider when it comes to a family photoshoot since there are members of all ages, which means that there is some extra coordination involved.

Below are some family photoshoot ideas and tips to keep you and your loved ones calm and smiling the whole way through.

  • Timing is everything. If you have younger children involved in the shoot, try and arrange the photoshoot at a time when they would be well rested. A rested child makes for happy photos. On that note, make sure that all family members have gotten enough sleep the night before as this helps with the fun and relaxation aspects of the session.
  • Dos and don’ts of bribery. Get your family excited about the photoshoot instead of offering a reward in return for their cooperation. This tends to lead to forced smiles and an irritated bunch of people. If you do have small children coming along it’s not a bad idea to give the photographer some bribery options in the form of toys or small food items to make those difficult moments a little easier.
  • Relinquish control. As much as you’ll want to direct your children on where to stand and how to pose, it’s best to leave that to the photographer as they know what works best. Not having this pressure will also make you feel more relaxed 
  • It’s not just about the posing. The best photos happen when you’re having fun so joke and play with your children, hold your partner’s hand and just let the moments happen.
  • Plan ahead. Discuss all of your requirements with your photographer beforehand so that the family photo session can just flow. Let your photographer know if you want specific pictures taken.
  • Keep those sugar levels up. If everyone is well fed, the photoshoot will also run a lot smoother. It’s also not a bad idea to take a few snacks and some water along for those who might need it

Enjoy capturing your memories.

Unique Photo Session Ideas You’ll Love

There is nothing quite like capturing memories with your loved ones. Are you someone who enjoys taking beautiful pictures of you and your family?  Then you are probably always on the lookout for inspiration for your next photo session. Below are some unique photo ideas that we think you’ll love.

  • Family history. Are you a fan of the photos that your grandparents or even great grandparents have taken? Why not replicate them yourself? All it takes is a bit of editing and you can achieve the same look and feel.
  • First and last day of school. For the first day of school, get some fun pictures of your child getting ready. You can then do the same on the day that they graduate from high school so that you can create an amazing “before and after” picture. You can even choose to add on college photos later.
  • Generational photos. Photos are one of those items that are passed down through generations so why not create one that future family members can treasure. Take a photo with your daughter, mom and grandma to show the generations of women in your family or any other mix of family members that you want to place in a picture together.
  • Pregnancy pictures. There are many fun ways to show your progress through pregnancy and documenting it with photos is the perfect way to capture this time in your life. Years from now you’ll be able to take your child through your journey before you got to meet them and share that special moment with them.
  • Pet portraits. If your pet is a member of your family then capturing memories with them is just as important. There are so many great ways to take some amazing photos whether it’s outside at a park or in the comfort of your own home.
  • Save the date. Getting married in the near future? Taking a quirky couple photo where your wedding date is displayed is a lovely way to invite people to your wedding. You can do anything from writing the date on the bottom of your shoes to using chalkboards or balloons to display the date.
  • Gender reveal. Why not make finding out the gender of your baby a fun surprise for everyone by turning it into a fun photo that you can send around. Some cute ideas include releasing pink or blue balloons out of a box or you could incorporate a cute color frame to hold around your belly.

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