Capture Autumn Magic

Autumn is one of the most magical times of the year for photography. The vibrant foliage, cozy vibes, and golden light make it a favorite season for capturing memories. But one of the most common questions I get as a photographer is:

"What should I wear for my fall photoshoot?"

Choosing the right outfits for your session can elevate the entire look and feel of your photos. Here are my best tips to help you pick out clothes that not only complement the autumn season but also ensure you feel confident and comfortable.

1. Embrace Fall Colors

Autumn is known for its rich, earthy tones, and your clothing should reflect the natural beauty of the season. Opt for colors that harmonize with the environment. Think:

- Warm Neutrals: Beige, camel, cream, and brown are classic fall colors that pair well with almost any setting.

- Earthy Hues:Rust, mustard, olive green, burnt orange, and deep reds will complement the autumn leaves perfectly.

- Jewel Tones: If you want to stand out against the softer fall tones, emerald green, deep burgundy, navy, and plum are great choices.

These colors will not only blend beautifully with the natural surroundings but also create a timeless, cohesive look in your photos.

2. Layer Up for Texture and Depth

One of the best things about fall fashion is the opportunity to layer! Layers add texture and depth to your photos, making them more visually interesting. Consider layering with:

- Cardigans or Sweaters:Cozy and comfortable, a chunky knit cardigan or sweater adds texture and warmth.

- Scarves: A scarf not only keeps you warm but can serve as a stylish accessory that adds movement and dimension to your shots.

- Jackets or Blazers: A well-fitted jacket or blazer adds structure to your outfit and keeps you warm during cooler autumn days.

The key to layering is balance—avoid too many bulky layers that could overwhelm your look.

3. Consider the Location

Your outfit should also complement the location of your shoot. Are you planning a session in the woods, at a park, or in an urban setting? 

- Nature or Park:For a nature-focused shoot, stick with earthy tones and casual pieces like sweaters, jeans, and boots.

- Urban Setting:If your shoot is in the city, you can lean into more structured outfits—think blazers, fitted pants, and heeled boots.

- Countryside or Farm: If you’re going for a more rustic vibe, think plaid shirts, denim, boots, and vests.

4. Keep Patterns Minimal

While patterns can add interest to an outfit, it’s best to keep them minimal in fall photoshoots. Small prints can sometimes appear too busy or distracting in photos. 

Instead, opt for **solid colors** or **subtle patterns**, such as:

- Plaid: A classic for autumn, but stick to larger, muted checks for a timeless look.

- Florals: Fall florals in deeper hues can work well, but keep the print subtle.

- Knitted Textures: Cable-knit sweaters or woven textures can add visual interest without overwhelming the image.

If you do choose a pattern, make sure it doesn’t clash with the rest of your group (if you’re shooting with others), and pair it with simple accessories.

5. Footwear Matters

Don’t overlook your shoes! The right footwear not only ties your outfit together but can also influence how comfortable you are during your shoot. Fall shoots often happen outdoors, so choose shoes that are both stylish and practical for walking.

- Boots: Ankle or knee-high boots are perfect for the fall season. Stick to neutral colors like black, brown, or tan.

- Loafers or Flats: If the terrain is smoother, classic flats or loafers can add a touch of sophistication.

- Avoid High Heels:Unless your shoot is indoors or on flat ground, heels might not be practical.

6. Accessorize Thoughtfully

Accessories can take your fall outfit to the next level! Here are a few suggestions:

- Hats: A wide-brimmed felt hat or a simple beanie can add a stylish touch and frame your face beautifully.

- Jewelry: Stick to simple, delicate pieces that won’t overpower your look. Gold and brass tones often pair well with fall colors.

- Belts: A belt can add structure to flowy dresses or oversized cardigans, giving your outfit a more polished appearance.

Remember, less is more when it comes to accessorizing for photos.

7. Coordinate, Don’t Match

If you're doing a shoot with family or friends, try to **coordinate** your outfits rather than match exactly. Choose a color palette (for example, warm neutrals or jewel tones) and have everyone wear different shades within that palette. This will create a cohesive, harmonious look without feeling too "matchy-matchy."

For example, if you’re going for earth tones:

- One person could wear a mustard sweater.

- Another could choose a brown cardigan.

- Someone else might opt for olive green pants.

By mixing and matching within the same palette, your group will look unified but still individual.

8. Be Yourself

Lastly, and most importantly, wear something that makes you feel like **you**. Confidence shines through in photos, so choose outfits that make you feel comfortable, confident, and authentic. Don’t feel pressured to wear something trendy if it doesn’t reflect your personal style.

Final Thoughts

Autumn is a photographer’s dream season, with its stunning colors and crisp, cool air. By choosing outfits that reflect the season, incorporating layers, and paying attention to details, your fall photos will be both beautiful and timeless. Now that you’ve got your wardrobe sorted, all that’s left is to enjoy the experience and have fun capturing these special moments!

Ready for your autumn photoshoot?

Let’s make it happen—book your session today!