Moms: Here’s How to Choose Your Fall Family Photoshoot Dress
As a mom of two, I know all too well the stress of coordinating family photos.
Picking a dress that’s both flattering and practical, while also complementing your family’s look, can feel like a HUGE ask! But it doesn’t have to be.
I’ve rounded up some of the prettiest fall family photoshoot dresses for 2024 below. And I’m spilling the tea on how to find the perfect dress that will make you feel confident and stylish during your photography session.
Dress Yourself First. Here’s Why.
Let’s face it–as moms, we’re often the last ones to think about ourselves when it comes to family photos. But your outfit choice is crucial and should come FIRST!
Why? Because you set the tone for the entire family’s look.
When you feel great in what you’re wearing, it shows. Plus, your dress can tie everyone’s outfits together, creating a cohesive and polished look for your family portraits.
Remember, these photos are memories you’ll cherish for years. You deserve to look and feel your best in them.
What to Consider When Choosing Your Dress For Fall Family Pictures
Choosing a Color Palette
Autumn is all about warm, rich hues. Think deep reds, burnt oranges, mustard yellows, and forest greens.
But don’t feel limited to these classic fall colors. Navy, plum, or even a soft cream can work beautifully, too.
For a modern take, we’ve been seeing a lot of photoshoots that incorporate black!
The major thing to keep in mind is to complement your family’s outfits and your chosen location.
Here are a few examples:
If you’re looking for an outfit to wear to the pumpkin patch, maybe skip the orange dress. Instead, opt for a contrasting color that’ll make you pop against the backdrop like deep green, cream or even blue tones.
If you’re shooting in a green, foresty location you may want to consider colors like:
- Jewel tones
- Warm neutrals
- Mustard yellow
- Dusty rose
Remember, the goal is to complement, not match, your surroundings. Choose a color that makes you feel confident and works well with your family’s color scheme.
Pro tip
If you’re unsure, Google examples of other photoshoots at your location to help you choose a color scheme. You could also bring multiple options and ask the photographer their opinion!
Fabric and Texture
Fall is the perfect time to play with sumptuous textures. Soft knits, velvet, or even a touch of suede can add visual interest to your photos.
Remember to mix things up. If one family member is in corduroy and another is in velvet, a chunky knit or silk, it really adds interest to the overall look and feel.
RELATED: What to Wear to Family Photos Outside
Length and Silhouette
The length of your dress is personal preference but maxi dresses are my go-to for fall family photos.
They’re versatile and flattering for most body types and provide a good amount of movement, which looks gorgeous in photos.
But don’t rule out midi or knee-length options if that’s more your style. Just consider the tone you want for your photos; do you want something dressy or more casual?
As for the silhouette, choose something that makes you feel your best. A-line dresses are universally flattering and look flowy and feminine in photos. They’re also very forgiving!
Comfort and Mobility
Trust me, comfort is key. You’ll be moving, sitting, and maybe even chasing kids during your shoot.
Opt for fabrics with some stretch. You want to be able to bend and move freely without worrying about wardrobe malfunctions.
Also, consider layers. A cute cardigan or stylish jacket can not only add dimension to your photos but also keep you warm if the weather turns chilly. Do avoid something overly bulky though!
RELATED: 5 Cute and Foolproof Family Photoshoot Outfit Ideas
Style Tips for a Timeless Look
When choosing your dress, aim for timeless over trendy. You want these photos to look just as good hanging on your wall in 10 years as they do now.
Keep accessories simple and meaningful. A delicate necklace or a pair of classic earrings can add just the right touch without distracting from your face.
Consider your neckline, too. V-necks, halter styles and scoop necks tend to be flattering in photos and work well for family poses where you might be bending down or hugging your kids.
If you need to use fashion tape to make it work, that’s probably a good sign the dress is a “no”.
Top Dress Styles for Fall Family Photos in 2024
Wrap dresses, maxi dresses and sweater dresses are all really popular styles in 2024.
A few other tips to keep in mind when shopping:
- Look for dresses with some movement for a playful and breezy look.
- A-line styles like the ones above tend to be flattering on most body types and move freely.
- If you’re open to choosing a print, look for a smaller print as large prints can be a bit distracting.
Need something budget-friendly? Here are a few top finds for photoshoot dresses on Amazon:
How to Coordinate Your Dress with the Rest of the Family
The key here is coordination, not matching. Choose a color palette and have each family member wear a different shade within that palette.
If you’re wearing a patterned dress, have other family members in solid colors that complement your pattern.
Remember, the goal is to look cohesive, not like you’re wearing uniforms!
PRO TIP
Lay out everyone’s outfit on your bed or the floor so you can get a feel for how it all looks together. If you’re shopping online, you could even create your own design board with Canva to see how it all looks!
The Best Places To Shop for Fall Photoshoot Dresses
You don’t have to break the bank for a beautiful photoshoot dress. Here are some of my favorite places to look:
- Online boutiques like Revolve, Lulu’s or Anthropologie often have great options specifically for family photos.
- Department stores like Nordstrom offer a wide range of styles and sizes.
- For a splurge without the long-term commitment, try a rental service like Rent the Runway.
- Lastly, don’t overlook Amazon which has plenty of options that are affordable and ship fast!
TIPS
- Try on your entire outfit, including shoes and accessories.
- Check how the dress looks when you sit, bend, and move around.
- Consider your undergarments–make sure they’re not visible and provide the right support.
- Pack a stain remover pen and any touch-up makeup you might need.
- Bring a backup outfit–just in case!
Embracing Your Personal Style in Family Photos
At the end of the day, the most important thing is that you feel like yourself. Choose a dress that reflects your personal style and makes you feel confident.
Remember, these photos are about capturing your family’s love and connection. Your genuine smile and comfort will shine through more than any perfectly chosen dress ever could.
So take a deep breath, trust your instincts, and get ready to create some beautiful fall memories with your family. You’ve got this, mama!
