What to Wear for Fall Family Photos in Upstate NY (A Photographer’s Guide)
The leaves are turning, the air is crisp, and it is officially sweater weather here in the Capital Region! Fall is my absolute favorite time of year for family photography. The colors in Upstate New York are unmatched, and the golden hour light is pure magic.
But as a family photographer based right here in Amsterdam, NY, I know exactly what happens the second you book a Fall Mini Session. The excitement hits, and then immediately, the panic sets in: "What on earth is everyone going to wear?!"
If you are currently staring into your closets feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath. As a mom of two, I completely understand the struggle! I have put together this simple guide to help you style your family for beautiful, timeless, and cohesive fall photos.
1. Coordinate, Don't "Match"
The days of everyone wearing identical white polo shirts and khaki pants are long gone! Instead of matching perfectly, aim to coordinate. Choose a color palette of 3 to 4 complementary colors and mix them throughout the family's outfits.
Fall Color Palette Ideas:
• Earthy & Warm: Mustard yellow, burnt orange, deep burgundy, and denim.
• Neutral & Classic: Cream, tan, olive green, and soft brown.
• Moody & Rich: Navy blue, plum, forest green, and gold.
2. Start with Mom First
Moms, you are usually the ones coordinating this whole thing, so you get to pick your outfit first! Find a dress, a chunky sweater, or an outfit that makes you feel beautiful and confident. Once you have your anchor piece (for example, a flowy rust-colored dress), it is so much easier to pull colors from that to dress your partner and the kids.
3. Embrace Layers and Textures
Fall is all about getting cozy. Layers not only add visual interest to a photograph, but they also keep everyone warm if the Upstate NY wind decides to pick up!
Think about incorporating:
• Chunky knit cardigans
• Denim jackets or corduroy vests
• Scarves and cute beanies
• Leather boots or cute ankle booties
4. Avoid Large Logos and Neon Colors
We want the focus of these photos to be on your family’s connection, not on the giant Nike swoosh on your son's shirt. Avoid clothing with large logos, graphics, or words.
Also, skip the neon colors (like hot pink or bright lime green). These colors can reflect back onto your skin, giving you a strange color cast in the final photos. Stick to muted, earthy, or jewel tones instead.
5. Dress for the Weather (and the Location)
We will likely be walking through grass, leaves, or a local Montgomery County park. Make sure everyone is wearing comfortable shoes (skip the stilettos!). If it’s chilly, don't force the kids into short sleeves just for the aesthetic; red, freezing noses do not make for happy photos! Embrace the weather with cute coats and scarves.
Let’s Capture Your Fall Memories!
The most important rule of all? Wear something that feels like you. When you feel comfortable and confident, it shines right through the camera lens.
If you haven't booked your autumn photos yet, I still have a few spots available!
Click here to view my Fall Mini Session packages and claim your spot today!
Lisa Bianco Photography specializes in authentic, heartfelt family and portrait photography serving Amsterdam, NY, Montgomery County, and the greater Upstate New York area.