Fall is one of the most picturesque seasons for a family photo session.
The rich colors, cozy textures, and beautiful natural light create the perfect backdrop for capturing memories. While your location and outfits play a big role in the overall look of your photos, don't overlook the impact of accessories!
The right accessories can add personality, fun, and warmth to your photos, making them even more special. Here are some cute accessory ideas to consider for your fall family photo session, with special suggestions for kids and fall-inspired patterns.
Cozy Scarves and Hats
Scarves and hats are classic fall accessories that can instantly elevate your family photos. Choose scarves in complementary colors that match your outfits, or go for bold patterns like plaid or houndstooth to add visual interest. Knitted hats, especially those with pom-poms or ear flaps, can add a touch of whimsy and charm to your photos.
For Kids: Choose adorable animal-themed hats (like bear or fox ears) or colorful knit beanies to add a playful element to your child's outfit. A matching scarf set can make them look both cozy and cute.
Pro Tip: Consider a mix of textures—like pairing a chunky knit scarf with a sleek wool hat—to add depth and variety to your photos. If you have kids, consider matching or coordinating their hats and scarves for a cute, cohesive look.
Blankets and Quilts
A cozy blanket or quilt is both a practical and stylish accessory for your fall photo session. Use a blanket for cuddling up with your loved ones or as a prop for sitting on the ground. Quilts with unique patterns or heirloom blankets add a personal touch to your photos and can be a great way to incorporate a piece of family history.
For Kids: Choose a smaller, kid-sized blanket in a fun pattern or their favorite color. This can serve as a comfort item and help keep them warm during outdoor sessions.
Pro Tip: Choose a blanket or quilt that complements your color scheme. Earthy tones like deep reds, oranges, and browns work well against a backdrop of fall foliage.
Cute Boots and Shoes
Footwear is an often-overlooked accessory that can make a big difference in your photos. Consider cute boots like ankle booties, riding boots, or even rain boots for a fun, playful look. Coordinating shoes for the whole family can add to the cohesiveness of your photos.
For Kids: Rain boots in bright colors or with fun patterns (like dinosaurs, unicorns, or superheroes) can be both functional and adorable. Plus, kids love jumping in puddles, which can make for some great candid shots!
Pro Tip: Think about where your photo session will take place. If you're shooting in a wooded area or on uneven ground, make sure everyone’s footwear is not only stylish but also practical and comfortable.
Fall-Inspired Jewelry
Jewelry can be a subtle yet impactful accessory for your fall photo session. Opt for pieces that complement the colors of your outfits and the natural surroundings. Think gold or copper-toned jewelry, or pieces with fall motifs like leaves or acorns.
For Kids: A simple bracelet or charm necklace can add a sweet, personalized touch. Avoid anything too bulky or flashy that might distract from their natural charm.
Pro Tip: Layering delicate necklaces or stacking bracelets can add a modern touch to your look without being overpowering. For children, a simple bracelet or necklace can add a special, personalized element.
Purses, Belts, and Glasses
Don’t overlook smaller accessories like purses, belts, and glasses that can add an extra layer of style to your photos. A stylish purse in a rich, fall color can add a pop of interest and serve as a prop to hold during the session. Belts are great for defining your waist and adding structure to dresses and coats. Glasses, whether prescription or stylish frames, can give your outfit a modern or vintage twist.
For Kids: Mini backpacks or small crossbody bags can be cute and functional for children. Consider colorful belts or playful frames to add a fun element to their outfits.
Pro Tip: Match your purse or belt to the rest of your outfit for a coordinated look. Glasses with clear or colored frames can complement the season’s palette and add a unique touch to your photos.
Vintage Accessories
Adding a vintage accessory, such as an old-fashioned suitcase, parasol, or even a vintage camera, can give your fall photos a unique twist. These items can serve as props or simply be part of the background to enhance the overall aesthetic of your session.
For Kids: A vintage toy, like a wooden horse or an old tricycle, can be a charming addition to your photos and provide kids with something to play with.
Pro Tip: Visit a local thrift store or ask family members if they have any interesting vintage items that you can borrow. This can add a personal touch and a sense of history to your photos.
Umbrellas and Rain Boots
Fall weather can be unpredictable, but you can turn a drizzly day into a fun photo opportunity with colorful umbrellas and rain boots.
Not only do these accessories add a pop of color, but they can also help tell a story of your family braving the elements together.
For Kids: Miniature umbrellas in fun shapes (like a frog or ladybug) or bright colors can be a playful addition and a hit with children.
Pro Tip: Choose clear or pastel-colored umbrellas to let the natural light shine through while still adding a whimsical touch to your photos.
Baskets and Picnic Sets
A picnic set or a woven basket can be a charming accessory for your fall family photo session. Fill a basket with seasonal items like apples, pumpkins, or a warm blanket.
A picnic set complete with a vintage thermos and plaid blanket can set the scene for cozy, candid moments.
For Kids: Smaller, lightweight baskets filled with leaves or small stuffed animals can give kids something fun to hold and interact with during the shoot.
Pro Tip: If you’re planning a picnic-style photo shoot, consider bringing along some warm drinks like hot cocoa or apple cider in thermoses. This can add a warm, inviting feel to your photos and create opportunities for genuine, relaxed moments.
Family Pet Accessories
Including your family pet in your fall photo session? Don’t forget accessories for them, too! A cute bandana, collar, or even a little sweater can make your furry friend look extra festive. Pets can add a lot of personality and fun to your photos, and dressing them up can make for some adorable shots.
For Kids and Pets: Matching bandanas or coordinated outfits for your kids and pets can create an extra layer of cuteness and bring a smile to everyone’s faces.
Pro Tip: Bring along some treats and toys to keep your pet engaged and happy throughout the session.
Fall Patterns to Consider
Patterns can add a vibrant touch to your fall family photo session. Here are some popular fall patterns to consider:
Plaid: A timeless pattern that screams fall. Plaid can be incorporated into scarves, shirts, dresses, or blankets, and works well for both adults and kids.
Houndstooth: A classic pattern that adds a bit of sophistication. This pattern looks great on coats, skirts, or even accessories like hats and scarves.
Floral Prints: Opt for florals in fall colors like mustard, maroon, and forest green. Floral dresses or shirts can add a feminine touch to the family’s overall look.
Cable Knit Patterns: This pattern adds texture to sweaters and scarves, giving a cozy and warm feel to your photos. Cable knit is great for layering and adding dimension to your family’s outfits.
Fair Isle Patterns: Perfect for sweaters, this classic pattern is reminiscent of cool, cozy days. It's especially great for creating a cohesive look if multiple family members wear similar Fair Isle sweaters in different colors.
For Kids: Fun prints like polka dots, animal prints, or whimsical patterns (like acorns or leaves) can add a playful touch to your child’s outfit and bring out their personality.
Pro Tip: Mix and match patterns carefully to avoid clashing. For example, if one family member is wearing a bold plaid shirt, others can wear more subdued patterns or solid colors that complement the plaid.
Accessories and patterns are fantastic ways to personalize your fall family photo session and add layers of meaning and style to your photos.
Whether you opt for cozy scarves, playful hats, or a cherished family heirloom, these little details can make your session even more memorable.
And don't forget to have fun with your kids' accessories—they can add a playful and endearing touch that will make your photos truly stand out.
So, gather your favorite fall accessories, get ready to have fun, and let’s create some beautiful photos that you'll treasure for years to come!
Ready to plan your fall family photo session? Reach out today to schedule your session and discuss all the fun ways we can accessorize and style your family to make your photos uniquely yours!
Feel free to share this guide with friends and family who are planning their own fall photo sessions.
Let's capture the beauty of the season together!
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