What to Wear for Fall Family Photos: Color Palettes + Outfit Ideas

Planning your fall family photos in Michigan? You’re in for a treat! Think golden leaves, cozy layers, and lots of snuggles. But once the session is booked, the next big question always rolls in…

👉 What should we wear?!

We’ve got you covered! In this Family Fall Lookbook, we’re sharing our favorite outfit combinations, color palettes that pop against Michigan’s fall scenery, and tips to help your family look coordinated (not matchy-matchy) in your photos. You can also view our family photo inspo board in Pinterest here.

Whether you’re dreaming of a warm, rustic vibe or something modern and clean, you’ll find inspiration right here.

Why Fall Is Perfect for Family Photos in Michigan

Michigan autumns give us beautiful scenery and mild/cool temperatures. Mid-October through the first week of November bursts into rich, colorful beauty – fiery reds, golden yellows, and moody greens. That means almost any location becomes a stunning backdrop… but it also means your outfits need to complement, not compete, with the scenery.

A little planning goes a long way to creating timeless, frame-worthy photos you’ll love forever.

Fall Color Palettes That Always Work

Here are a few tried-and-true palettes that look amazing against Michigan’s fall foliage:

1. Muted Tones

Burnt orange and olive tones create a cozy, earthy feel that’s effortlessly elegant.

2.  Jewel Tones

Think emerald green, deep burgundy, and navy. These colors add richness and depth while still being seasonally appropriate.

3. Denim + Earth Tones

Pair classic denim with browns, camel, and soft whites for a casual, timeless look.

Michigan family photographer

4. Muted Mustard

For a more playful vibe, these tones give subtle pops of color that work beautifully in an autumn scene.

What to wear for your Michigan family photos

4. Neutrals

Neutrals are always in style in season!

Outfit Tips for Stress-Free Styling

  • Pick a base color and build around it – Choose mom’s outfit first (trust us!) and coordinate the rest from there.
  • Mix textures – Layers like knit sweaters, denim jackets, and corduroy add interest and dimension.
  • Avoid logos and neon colors – They distract and clash with the fall aesthetic.
  • Comfort is key – Make sure kiddos can move, sit, and snuggle freely in what they’re wearing.
  • Shoes matter – Choose clean, neutral shoes that make sense for the setting (fields vs. sidewalks).

Ready to Plan Your Session?

The best time to book your fall family session is… now. Prime weekends book up quickly, and once the leaves start to fall, they go fast!

Let us help you create beautiful, heartfelt images—with outfits and locations that reflect your story.

📅 Click here to book your session »