What to Wear for Fall Family Photos: Choosing Timeless Outfits and Colors

Planning your fall family photoshoot outfits can feel overwhelming, but the right choices will make your pictures timeless and lovely. Fall is one of the most popular times of year for family portraits, thanks to the golden light, warm, earthy tones – and some of us incentivized by getting a head start on Christmas cards! Whether you’re preparing for your annual photos or your very first family session, these tips will help you get timeless images that you'll savor through the years.

Choosing Outfits for Fall Family Photos:

Start with your end goal in mind. Are you using these photos for Christmas cards? Will you display them in your home? If so, what colors would you like to include or avoid? Neutral family photo outfits always look timeless, while deeper hues like forest green, burgundy and navy add depth and richness.  Avoid over-saturated or neon colors, which can distort skin tones. 

For the best family photoshoot outfits, aim for an elevated and cohesive look, but not formal. You’ll want to be comfortable with the outfits you choose, because, if you feel comfortable, your photos will reflect that! Select clothing pieces that allow the kids to move, play, and romp. You want the photoshoot session to be a delightful experience! Choose to dress up a little more than your every day look. Definitely avoid distressed denims, t-shirts with logos or writing and bold prints. These don’t photograph well and can quickly feel dated and cheap.

Select a Staple Outfit and Plan Around It

When styling family photo outfits, start with one key piece. Often, it makes sense for mom to choose her dress first, since her outfit usually sets the tone. Or, if you find the perfect toddler dress or sweater for your little one, use that as your foundation. Build the rest of the family’s wardrobe around the highlight piece.

Dad’s Outfit: Khakis or chinos with a button-up shirt, Henley, or zip-up sweater are an easy upgrade from jeans and tees.

Kids’ Outfits: Choose solid pieces or small prints in soft, comfortable fabrics that allow natural movement—nothing too stiff or fussy. 

Choose to Coordinate; Don't Match

One of the biggest mistakes families make is being too matchy-matchy. Instead of everyone in the same color, think about coordinating family photo outfits. Choose a mix of complementary tones, patterns, and textures which add gentle appeal and richness.  For example:

• If mom wears a floral dress, pull accent colors from the print for the rest of the family.
• Mix in solids, knits, and subtle patterns for added texture.

Layers are your best friend in fall. Cardigans, vests, knits and scarves add visual interest, help coordinate without matching, and keep everyone cozy during those cooler “golden hour” shoots.

Best Colors for Fall Family Photos

Wondering what colors to wear for fall family pictures? Start with a muted color palette and pull together two or three colors that compliment each other. Here are tried-and-true combinations that photograph beautifully:

• Burgundy + Navy + Cream → Classic and timeless
• Olive Green + Mustard + Brown → Warm and earthy
• Terra Cotta + Ivory + Camel → Trendy but natural
• Pine  + Tan + Chestnut → Rich tones with neutrals

Final Thoughts on What to Wear for Fall Family Photos

Your family photos should capture love and connection—not tension or stress. Stick to timeless neutrals, cozy layers, and rich fall tones, and you’ll love your images for years to come.

 Pin this post for later! Whether you’re planning ahead or styling last-minute, these fall family photoshoot outfit ideas will help you create beautiful memories.

For beautiful, timeless family photos like the one above, follow @haileyanngracephotography