Pumpkin spice lattes, fuzzy scarves, good books, crunchy leaves…we all love fall! It’s a magical time of year, with plenty of crisp air and vibrant colors, and it’s one of my favorite times to capture family photos for my clients. But as the season kicks into high gear, with school schedules, sports, and holiday preparations, finding time for a photo session can feel impossible. Don’t let your busy schedule stop you from capturing the memories you’ll want for your holiday cards. Here are some practical tips to help you prioritize family photos and make the experience enjoyable for everyone.
Decide what you’ll use your images for: Looking for unique and gorgeous holiday cards? Wanting to gift canvasses or prints to grandparents and relatives? Hoping to update your family’s home with new portraits? Knowing what you’ll use your photos for can help guide you to the type of session you want to book, such as a family mini, or a longer length, full portrait collection. Knowing what types of poses and images you need can help you make a more informed decision.
Booking early is key: Photographers are in high demand during the fall, so reach out to your favorite one early to secure a date that works for you. Look at your family’s calendar and find a time when everyone is available and not overwhelmed by other commitments, especially if you have a high school senior. Avoid booking sessions on weekends already packed with activities or close to major holidays, so the experience feels less like a chore and more like a fun family event.
It doesn’t need to be complicated: Once you’ve set a date, simplify the wardrobe planning. You don’t need to have everyone perfectly matched; instead, aim for coordinating outfits in complementary colors that capture the season’s warmth. Think deep reds, mustard yellows, and rich earthy tones. Most importantly, make sure everyone feels comfortable in what they’re wearing. Layers are a great option for fall weather and can add depth and variety to your photos.
Communicate with me: Communication with your photographer (me) is key to ensuring your vision comes to life. If you have ideas about the poses and types of shots you want, please tell me so I can help plan and design your session accordingly. Knowing what you have in mind can really help me meet your needs. I also encourage everyone to keep an open mind, because sometimes, clients are surprised by poses and ideas that they didn’t envision. Trust my expertise, and I promise it will result in images that really capture your family’s dynamic.
Finally, focus on enjoying the time with your family. It’s easy to get caught up in trying to capture the perfect pose, but often, the best photos are the candid ones that reflect genuine laughter and connection. Relax, have fun, and let your family’s personality shine through. Once you receive your photos, take the time to decide how you want to display them, whether it’s through prints, albums, or digital frames, and do it together! This is another chance to bond and create memories while looking back over your photos!
