Fall Family Photo Style Guide: Do’s & Don’ts for Stunning Austin Family Photos

Fall is the perfect season for family photos, and I know figuring out what everyone should wear can feel like a whole thing – trust me, I’ve been there. But don’t stress, I’ve got you covered! With just a few simple tips and tricks, we can make sure your family not only looks amazing but feels confident, too. After all, when everyone feels good, it shows in the photos – and that’s what makes those timeless, beautiful images you’ll love for years to come.

Let’s dive into some do’s and don’ts that will take your family photo styling from overwhelming to effortless!

Do’s:

Incorporate Multiple Colors
When planning your outfits, aim for a 2-3 color palette that complements each other, then sprinkle in neutrals to keep things cohesive (but not matchy-matchy!). Jewel tones like emerald, mustard, and maroon are chef’s kiss for fall – they photograph beautifully and pop without being too loud. Pro tip: cream is a softer alternative to white and looks so lovely in photos. If you’re going for darker tops, try a black tee as your base layer instead of white to keep the look seamless.

Purchase Clothes That Fit Your Body
I get it – sizing up for the kiddos feels like you’re getting more bang for your buck, but for photos, fitted clothes are where it’s at. For adults, choose pieces that show off what you love! A flowy wrap maxi dress? Yes, please! It hugs in all the right places without being too tight. If you’re between sizes, go ahead and size down – it creates a much more flattering silhouette.

Start With One Outfit and Build From There
Don’t try to pick everyone’s outfits at once – talk about overwhelming! Instead, start with one piece you love and build the rest from there. No need to buy an entirely new wardrobe – shop your closet first! And here’s where my favorite new tool comes in: Style & Select. You can upload photos of items you already have and mix and match with recommended pieces to build the perfect look. It’s seriously a game-changer, and my clients are obsessed with how easy it makes the whole process.

Wear Layers!
Layers are a must for adding depth and dimension to your photos. If it’s warm out, accessorize with hats, scarves, or suspenders. Cooler weather? Think cozy cardigans, boots, and scarves. Layers not only look amazing, but they add personality and make your photos stand out. Plus, you can always shed or add layers to switch up the vibe during the shoot!

Add Texture
Ruffles, velvet, lace, crochet – these are the little details that make your photos pop! Don’t shy away from mixing patterns, either. Florals and stripes? Plaid and polka dots? Yes and yes. If you’re going for a neutral look, skip the blue denim and try colored chinos in earthy tones like olive, burgundy, or grey. It makes a huge difference in the overall feel!

Wear Outfits With Movement
Flowy fabrics bring magic to your photos. Maxi dresses, wide-leg pants, or skirts that catch the breeze? Dreamy. They create movement in your images, making them feel alive. And here’s a little style tip: long sleeves or sleeveless tops are generally more flattering than short sleeves, so keep that in mind when choosing your final looks.

Don’ts:

Avoid Neon Colors
Neon may be fun in real life, but in photos? Not so much. It can cast weird colors on your skin and just doesn’t photograph well. Also, consider the location and background when choosing your outfit colors. For example, if we’re shooting in a lush green field, skip wearing green – you’ll blend right in!

Don’t Match, Coordinate Instead
Matching outfits are a thing of the past. Coordinating is where it’s at! Choose looks that complement each other without being identical. It’s all about mixing colors and textures. Remember, if two people are wearing the same color shirt, I won’t be able to place them next to each other – we want to create contrast!

Skip Solid Black or White
Solid black and white may seem like go-to basics, but they can fall flat in photos. Instead, go for richer tones or add layers and textures to bring dimension to your look. Also, avoid logos, graphics, or large patterns – they tend to distract from the overall vibe.

Avoid Babydoll Dresses and Puffy Vests
Loose-fitting dresses or puffy vests can be unflattering in photos, making you look larger than you are. Go for a fitted dress or top that flatters your figure, or opt for a cardigan that hugs your shape. It’s all about feeling your best!

Skip Athletic Shoes
We want to dress the part from head to toe! Bright sneakers might look great for a trip to the park, but they can throw off an entire look in photos. Instead, go for something casual yet polished – boots, booties, or neutral-colored sandals are perfect.

No Bright White Socks with Elastic Pants
Here’s a small but important one – if your toddler’s pants ride up, bright white socks can totally steal the spotlight (and not in a good way!). Try matching their socks to their pants or go sockless for a cleaner, more streamlined look.

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Style & Select: My New Go-To Tool for Easy Styling

I am so excited to introduce Style & Select to my business this year – and let me tell you, it’s already a total game-changer!

I know picking out outfits for the entire family can feel overwhelming, but with Style & Select, it’s never been easier to pull together looks that you’ll love.

Here’s how it works:
Once you book your session with me, you’ll get exclusive access to the Style & Select platform. From there, you can browse an entire wardrobe of outfit ideas for each family member, from moms to dads, kids, and even babies. The best part? You can start by uploading photos of items you already have in your closet! That way, you can mix and match with pieces you own, so you don’t have to buy an entirely new wardrobe.

The platform will also suggest coordinating items and outfit combinations based on your style and color preferences. Whether you’re going for that boho-chic vibe, timeless neutrals, or fun pops of color, Style & Select helps you create cohesive looks that photograph beautifully.

Clients have been raving about how much it simplifies the process and takes the stress out of getting everyone camera-ready. Plus, it saves you so much time – no more running around from store to store trying to coordinate outfits! In just a few clicks, you’ll have the perfect look planned for your family photo session.

I can’t wait to see what you create with it!

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Location Inspiration for Your Color Combos

Choosing the right location for your family photos is just as important as selecting your outfits! Austin has some stunning backdrops, and when paired with the perfect color palette, it really elevates your photos, giving them the exact vibe you’re dreaming of. Here are some of my favorite spots from my extensive location guide and how they pair beautifully with various color combos:

• Gold and Navy – If you’re loving rich, warm tones, Bull Creek is an absolute dream for your session. Picture the flowing creek, limestone rock formations, and vibrant greenery – they create such a striking contrast that makes navy and gold outfits pop like crazy. It’s a gorgeous mix of earthy and elegant, perfect for families who want a timeless, natural look with a bit of flair. Bonus: the light at Bull Creek in the late afternoon is downright magical, making your photos glow with warmth!

• Spruce Green and Black – The open fields near the 360 Bridge along Lake Austin are an amazing choice if you’re going for a sleek, modern vibe in a more rural setting. This location offers a unique blend of wide-open spaces and natural beauty, giving spruce green and black outfits the perfect moody backdrop. Imagine the minimalist fields paired with autumn’s fiery trees – it’s a breathtaking combination, especially in late November. The clean, open space allows your bold color palette to stand out while giving your photos an urban-chic meets nature feel.

• Tan and Cream – Cozy and neutral tones like tan and cream absolutely shine in my VW Bus Holiday Mini Sessions. The rustic charm of the VW bus against those warm, earthy tones creates the perfect balance of laid-back and polished. There’s something about this combo that just screams cozy, intimate family moments with a hint of holiday magic. Want something a little different? My Lumen Room minis are another great spot for this palette, especially with the optional holiday setup! The bright white walls and modern seating (hello, green velvet couch and rich orange velvet chair!) make those neutrals pop in the best way. It’s perfect for a clean, modern family session with a festive twist.

• Rose, Maroon, and Tan – If rich, romantic colors are more your thing, the neutral tones at Commons Ford Ranch are the ideal match for a rose, maroon, and tan color palette. The golden grasses and rustic, weathered charm of the ranch complement the warm hues beautifully, creating a backdrop that’s both serene and earthy. It’s perfect for capturing those tender family moments while letting those rich colors shine. Think sunset magic, wide-open fields, and that timeless rustic vibe.

• Black and Rustic Brown – If you’re after a more rugged, country feel, Star Hill Ranch is the perfect spot to pair with black and rustic brown outfits. The weathered barns, tall golden grass, and wooden textures make for a moody, cozy backdrop that feels like stepping back in time. The natural elements give your photos a vintage charm, making your color palette stand out in the most beautiful way. It’s all about that mix of old-school rustic charm and effortless style.

• Peach and Light Blue – For a soft, romantic vibe, look no further than Mayfield Park. The light at this location is simply dreamy, creating an ethereal glow that’s perfect for peach and light blue tones. Lush gardens, natural stone pathways, and wide-open fields set the scene for whimsical, fairytale-like family photos. It’s an especially great location if you’re going for a softer, more delicate look that feels light, airy, and full of magic.

• Aqua and Orange – Looking for something fun and vibrant? The Seaholm District is the place for a bold color palette like aqua and orange. The industrial architecture and modern urban textures make this spot stand out, providing a cool, edgy vibe that really lets those colors pop. It’s ideal for families who want something trendy, playful, and full of energy. The combination of bright hues and sleek, modern backdrops makes for photos that feel fun and uniquely you.