So you’ve booked Fall Family Photos…and now you have to figure out what in the world everyone is going to wear!

If you are feeling overwhelmed with planning out outfits for your family, I have 8 Fall Family Styling Tips that are going make your life a whole lot easier!

Hi! My name is Rachel and I am a family photographer based in Asheville, North Carolina! I have two toddler girls of my own and have been photographing families for over a decade now and I have not only learned what photographs well but also how to set your family up for success when it comes to outfits! I want everyone in your family to look good, but more importantly FEEL good!

So here is my BEST advice when it comes to choosing what to wear for your family this Fall!

1. Start with YOU, Mama!

Okay, I am assuming mom is reading this and I’m also assuming that out of everyone in your family you are going to care about what you look like the most in your photos! Anddddd you mightttt also be the most critical of how you look? Maybe??

Whether that is true or not for you, consider starting with a dress or outfit that you KNOW you are going to look good and feel good in! You can splurge on something new for you and build everyone else’s wardrobe from there!

2. Decide on your color palette!

If your dress is patterned you can choose colors within the pattern to build your color palette. Two colors and a two neutrals is a great direction to go in! If your dress is only one color or neutral, use my color palette’s above to help build your vision or check out my next tip to help!

3. Find items of clothing that you already own!

You don’t need to buy all new outfits for the entire family! Look through what you already have and shop to fill in any gaps!

4. Let your kids (& spouse) be a part of the process!

If you have children who are sensitive to textures or very opinionated about what they wear, let them be a part of choosing their outfit! You can give them pre-approved options to choose from or let them have as much freedom as they want! Same goes with your husband! If you always pick out his clothes and he always hates them, ask him what he wants to wear this year! You know your family best, so let them be a part of the process as much as you’d like!

5. Still unsure if you are on the right track? Reach out to your photographer!

Send me a picture with what you have laid out or send me what you’re wearing and ask me to help you find specific pieces for the family! I am happy to help and find so much joy in it!

6. Don’t forget the accessories & details!

I’m not talking about jewelry or headbands, but I’m talking socks and shoes and undershirts! Things that you might not think about until the last minute but can make or break a photo session! A great outfit with halloween socks or a worn pair of bright red sneakers can totally distract from all of your hard work!

7. Steam (or iron) your clothes the day before!

I have a cheap handheld steamer that works magic on my dresses and my husband’s button downs! Wrinkles can take a totally great outfit and make it look sloppy and unkempt. Also don’t forget to have everyone try on everything real quick at least a week before, especially if it’s something brand new (or even old). You don’t want to panic on the day of because something doesn’t fit!

8. Repurpose these outfits for Thanksgiving Dinner, Christmas Parties, School Performances and other Holiday events!

xoxo,

Rachel