Fall is my favorite time of year. After playing hard all summer, fall brings a routine and rhythm I crave. Fall foods and the excitement of all of the upcoming holidays just makes fall even more special. So it is only fitting that this series that takes a look at why you should have your family photos taken during each season should end with fall, one of the most popular seasons for family photos. (In case you missed the past seasons, make sure you check out Why You Should Have Family Photos Taken in Summer, too!)
The colors of fall make a beautiful backdrop for family photos.
There is no doubt that Mother Nature truly shows off with the vibrant colors of fall. The vibrant yellows, oranges, and reds make for a beautiful background as you play with your family. It’s no surprise why fall is a favorite time of year for many families having photos taken.
The cooler weather in fall allows for layering of clothes, adding depth to your photos.
I love the crisp air of fall where I can put on a cozy sweater, a scarf, and a pair of boots. Layering clothing not only keeps everyone warm, but adds a little more personality and interest into your photo. A scarf, vest, hat, or even a pair of rubber boots can act as a simple way to bring in a pop of color, or help tie everyone’s outfits together.
The earlier sunsets of fall are ideal for younger children.
Family (and maternity) sessions take place 1-1.5 hours before sunset. During the fall season, the sunset is early, meaning we can start sessions earlier than say a session in late spring or summer. If your kids are anything like mine, they turn into pumpkins the later they stay up. Having your family photos done in fall is a great way to take advantage of that early sunset, have gorgeous sunlight, all while home in time for bedtime!
Throwing fallen leaves is fun for all.
Who doesn’t love a good leaf fight? As fall progresses and more leaves on the ground (also making a beautiful backdrop for a portrait), what kid (or parent) wouldn’t want to run and jump into a pile of leaves, or even have a little leaf throwing fight? As you can see in the image above, those kids weren’t too old to feel the magic of tossing leaves above your head. Your kids will love it too.
Fall family photo sessions are just in time for holiday gift-giving.
With the holidays nearing rapidly each fall, you cannot help but think about what photo you will put on your Christmas card or what gifts to give the grandparents. So whether you’re giving prints, a canvas, or an album, having your family photos done in fall gives you updated photographs of your family to choose from.
If you start to feel overwhelmed, I am always happy to help you select the right images, sizing, or gifts for family. From design to wall display ideas, I’m happy to help you get your photos printed!
Looking for photo gift inspiration? I have you covered with photo gift ideas your family will love.
Things to consider with a fall family photo session.
Each season has so many great reasons why to have family photos done. However, they also have things to consider that might make another season better for your family. First while sunsets can be gorgeous in fall, the weather is also more unpredictable. Rainy weather may mean moving your session to a covered location or trying to reschedule for another date.
Another thing to consider is that there is no guarantee for the type of fall color. While I’ve never had a family disappointed, I cannot control or predict when the “peak” fall color will be. A wind storm or heavy rain could bring those leaves down (which, of course, makes for some great leaf throwing!).
The last thing to consider is how busy fall is. Groups, sports and responsibilities all start back up in fall. Finding a day that works for everyone can be tricky. My schedule with family sessions is also much fuller, meaning it can be harder to reschedule.
However, If you want photos now, it is always a great time to have your family photographed.
Looking for a fall family photo session?
As a Seattle family photographer, fall is my busiest time of year. Hop on my newsletter list to get priority access to my calendar when dates launch. Ready for family photos sooner? Contact me for current session availability.