Styling Your Fall Photo Session
Fall is a magical time for photography, especially in the beautiful landscapes of Ventura County & Santa Barbara. With the golden sunshine, glowy light, and vibrant foliage, it's the perfect backdrop for your maternity, family, or senior portraits. I'm here to guide you through some tips and ideas to ensure you look and feel your best for your fall photo session with ME, Tiffany Kelterer Photography.
Can't you just imagine it..
You and your family are gathered in a picturesque field in Ventura County, the golden sun casting a warm glow around you. Your kiddos are laughing, playing in a golden field, and you feel the crisp fall air as you pull your chunky cardigan a little tighter. You know you look great because you have hand picked all your outfits using my tips below.
Or, maybe we've planned your session at the beach in Malibu, the sun setting in a burst of orange and pink hues. The waves gently roll at your feet as you and your loved ones walk along the shore, your flowy dress moving with the breeze. You feel completely at ease, laughing at my dorky jokes and enjoying the serene beauty of the moment. These are the memories we create together, and they’re as beautiful and unique as your family.
I like to embrace each season's beauty, while still allowing you to choose to have fun with your wardrobe, With my easy session styling tips in mind, you'll be perfectly styled for your fall photo session.
Start by Choosing a Color Palette
Colorful Styling
Fall is all about rich, warm tones that complement the natural scenery. Think burnt oranges, deep reds, mustard yellows, and earthy browns. These colors not only stand out against the golden light but also create a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing look. Consider incorporating these hues into your outfits through scarves, sweaters, and accessories.
Classic Styling
I also adore the classic elegance of neutral tones like creams, tans, and sage. These colors can balance out the rich fall hues and keep your look timeless. Neutrals provide a soft touch , to a soft beach sunset, and allows the natural beauty around you to compliment your style.
Don't be afraid to mix the two styles
You don't have to choose just one of these color styles for your session. In fact, some of my favorite styles mesh both styles seamlessly. Think of a neutral-colored flowy maxi dress paired with a chunky off the shoulder brown or mustard yellow cardigan. Or putting your little one in a pair of brown corduroys with a classic off-white sweater and suspenders. These combinations are effortlessly chic and perfect for capturing the season's essence in a subtle yet stunning way.
Few More Tips
Stay True to Your Style
Choose outfits that reflect your personal style. Whether you prefer a classic, modern, or rugged look, staying true to yourself will make you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera.
Layer Up for Comfort and Style
Southern California's fall weather can be unpredictable, ranging from warm afternoons to cooler evenings. Layering is key to staying comfortable throughout your session. Start with a basic layer like a fitted shirt or dress, then add a cozy sweater, denim jacket, or a stylish scarf. Layers add depth and texture to your photos, making them more visually interesting.

Coordinate, Don’t Match
For family sessions, it's essential to coordinate outfits without being too matchy-matchy. Choose a color palette and have each family member pick outfits within that range. This approach creates harmony in your photos without everyone looking identical. For example, if you're going with fall tones, one person could wear a mustard yellow sweater, another a cream dress, and someone else a brown jacket.
Accessorize Thoughtfully
Accessories can make or break an outfit. In fall, think about adding elements like wide-brimmed hats, dainty jewelry, and boots. These not only enhance your style but also provide practical benefits, like keeping you warm during your session. However, be careful not to over-accessorize; the focus should remain on you and your family, not the accessories.
Consider Your Location
Southern California offers a variety of stunning locations for fall photo sessions, from the beaches of Malibu & Santa Barbara to the fields of Ojai and the nature preserves in Thousand Oaks. When choosing your outfits, consider the setting of your shoot. Earthy tones and casual styles work well for a rustic field, while soft flowly vibes might be better suited for a beach session at sunset.
Comfort is Key
Above all, make sure you're comfortable in what you're wearing. If you're constantly adjusting your clothes or feeling self-conscious, it will show in your photos. Choose outfits that fit well and allow you to move freely, especially if you have young children who will be running around.
Styling for Moms
Choose Flattering Silhouettes
Opt for outfits that accentuate your best features and make you feel confident. A-line dresses, high-waisted pants, and wrap dresses are universally flattering and comfortable for moving around during the session.
Embrace Fall Florals
Florals aren’t just for spring. Look for fall-inspired floral patterns with deeper hues like maroon, navy, and mustard. These add a feminine touch and look beautiful against the autumn backdrop.
Add a Statement Piece
Incorporate a statement piece into your outfit. This could be a wide-brimmed hat or a pair of boots. It adds personality and draws attention to your best features without overpowering the overall look.
Utilize Cozy Knits
Cozy knits are perfect for fall. Consider a chunky knit cardigan or a stylish sweater dress. These pieces add texture and warmth, making you feel comfortable and stylish.
Go for Earthy Accessories
Earthy accessories like turquoise jewelry leather belts can add an extra touch of fall charm to your outfit. These elements tie in beautifully with the natural surroundings.
Opt for Maxi Dresses
Maxi dresses in fall colors are a great choice. They offer a flowy, romantic look that works well in any of my outdoor session location and allows for ease of movement during the shoot.
Think About Texture
Incorporate different textures into your outfit to add depth. Think lace, velvet, or corduroy. These materials photograph beautifully and enhance the overall aesthetic.
Select the Right Footwear
Footwear is crucial for your comfort and overall look. Opt for stylish boots or closed-toe shoes that complement your outfit. Avoid high heels that might sink into the ground or cause discomfort. Comfortable footwear allows you to move freely and enjoy the session.
Styling For Dad
Embrace Casual Elegance
Go for a look that's both relaxed and refined. Think casual button-down shirts or Henleys paired with well-fitted jeans or chinos. This balance ensures you look put-together but still comfortable.
Layer with a Jacket
A jacket can be a stylish addition to your outfit. Whether it's a bomber jacket for a sporty look or a corduroy for a casual feel, it adds depth and warmth without being bulky.
Opt for Neutral Tones
Neutral tones like navy, gray, and beige work well in fall settings. These colors are versatile and can be easily coordinated with the rest of the family’s outfits.
Wear a Henley
Henley shirts are perfect for fall. They offer a casual yet stylish look and can be easily layered with jackets or sweaters. Choose earthy tones to match the season.
Incorporate Subtle Patterns
Subtle patterns like checks or stripes can add interest to your outfit without overwhelming it. Stick to classic patterns that will look timeless in photos.
Think About Footwear
Comfortable and stylish footwear is essential. Opt for boots or closed-toe shoes that match your outfit. Avoid shoes that are too casual or uncomfortable. The right footwear will keep you comfortable and confident throughout the session.
Pay Attention to Fit
Ensure your clothes fit well. Baggy, overly tight clothes, or shirts that are too short, can be unflattering and uncomfortable.
Accessorize Thoughtfully: Add personality to your outfit with thoughtfully chosen accessories like a woven belt, hat, or a stylish watch that complements your spring outfit.
Styling For Kids
Prioritize Comfort
Choose outfits that your kids feel comfortable in. They’ll be moving around a lot during the session, so ensure their clothes allow for ease of movement and aren’t too restrictive.
Layer for the Weather
Fall temperatures can fluctuate, so layering is key. Start with a comfortable base layer like a long-sleeved shirt or leggings, and add a sweater or jacket that complements their outfit.
Prints and Colors are Ok
Let your kids express their personality with fun prints and colors. Whether it’s stripes, or fall colors they love, these elements add a playful touch to their photos and highlight their individuality.
Coordinate with the Family
While you don’t need everyone to match exactly, coordinating colors and styles among family members creates a cohesive look in the photos. Choose colors that complement each other to achieve a harmonious visual effect.
Choose Cute but Practical Footwear
Select shoes that are suitable for outdoor activities and comfortable for walking and playing but still match the vibe of your session. Clean converse, boots, or cute flats are ideal choices that blend style with functionality.
Ensure Cleanliness and Neatness
Ensure your kids’ clothes are clean and neatly pressed on the day of the session. This ensures they look polished and camera-ready in their photos.
Bring a Back-up Just In Case
Kids can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to pack a backup outfit. Whether it’s for unexpected spills or just to change up the look halfway through the session, having a spare set of clothes ensures your kids look their best from start to finish.
Encourage Smiles and Fun
The best photos capture genuine smiles and joyful expressions. Encourage your kids to relax, have fun, and be themselves during the session. A positive attitude shines through in the photos.
Welcome to my happy place!
I'm Tiffany, gratefully serving Ventura County and Santa Barbara, I specialize in photographing maternity, families, & motherhood photography, capturing moments drenched in golden sunlight. Consider me your guide for capturing the magic of your family's love.
With a passion driven by being a mom myself, I specialize in candid connections & genuine laughter. As a storyteller, I thrive on capturing your beachside giggles or sun-kissed adventures.
