Fall Family Photos: What to Wear and How to Style | Virginia Beach Photographer | Chesapeake Photographer | LexLeigh Photography

Fall is one of the most magical times of year for family portraits - the golden light, rich colors, and cozy textures make every image feel warm and timeless. But if you’ve ever stared at your closet and thought, “What on earth should we wear?” you’re not alone.

Styling is the #1 question I get from families this time of year.

Here are my top tips to make choosing outfits stress-free while ensuring your photos look stunning:

1. Start with a Neutral Base

Earthy neutrals - creams, tans, browns grays, and muted greens - are the perfect starting point. They photograph beautifully against autumn backdrops and let your family’s connection be the star of the image.

2. Add Subtle Pops of Color

Fall is the season of warm, rich tones. Deep mustard, burnt orange, olive green, and burgundy make great accents. Pick one or two as your highlight colors and weave them subtly into your family’s outfits.

3. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Skip the outdated “everyone in white shirts and jeans” look. Instead, aim for complementary tones. Choose 2–3 colors that flow together and distribute them among family members. This creates harmony without looking too uniform.

4. Play with Texture and Layers

Sweaters, cardigans, scarves, boots, corduroy, and knit hats not only add visual interest but also bring cozy autumn vibes. Layering also helps with comfort - perfect for unpredictable fall weather.

5. Keep Comfort a Priority

If you’re not comfortable, it will show in your photos. Choose clothing that feels natural to you and allows kids to move freely. A confident, relaxed family always makes the best portraits.

✨ Pro Tip: Lay all the outfits out together on the bed before your session. If they look balanced side by side, they’ll look beautiful in your portraits.

And remember—when you book with me, you’ll also have access to my exclusive client wardrobe for moms, along with personalized styling guidance. My goal is to make your session effortless and luxurious from start to finish.