As autumn approaches, so does one of my favorite traditions—family photos. Whether your backdrop is a pumpkin patch glowing with orange gourds, a golden field of sunflowers, or a park sprinkled with fiery fall foliage, these snapshots aren’t just pictures; they’re memories you’ll treasure for years to come. But here’s the age-old dilemma: how do you coordinate outfits for the entire family without looking too matchy-matchy—or too chaotic?

Styling family portraits may feel overwhelming, but with a few thoughtful considerations, the process becomes not only stress-free but fun. Below, I’ve gathered some tried-and-true tips to help you craft looks that are cohesive, comfortable, and perfectly in tune with the season.

Start With the Setting

Before picking outfits, think about where your photos will be taken. Will you be wandering through a rustic pumpkin patch? Strolling under trees glowing with red and yellow leaves? Or maybe gathering in front of your home’s stoop with its seasonal décor?

Your location will naturally dictate your palette. A sunflower field, for example, bursts with bright yellows, so balance it with earthy neutrals to avoid blending in too much. A wooded backdrop full of orange and red leaves might call for shades of cream, denim, or muted greens to complement, not compete with, nature’s display.

Build a Cohesive Color Palette

Once you’ve chosen your location, identify the first four colors that stand out in the setting. If you’re taking photos at your stoop surrounded by autumn décor, those hues might be brown, orange, and green. From there, narrow down to a few tones that feel harmonious and distribute them among family members.

A simple rule of thumb: choose one color for tops, another for bottoms, and sprinkle in accents through accessories. This ensures variety while keeping the group cohesive. Avoid everyone wearing the exact same shade—it can make the whole photo feel flat. Instead, think of the family as one beautiful composition where each person adds depth and texture.

Solids vs. Prints

Here’s where personal style really comes into play. If you prefer a timeless, polished look, stick to solid colors. They’re classic, easy on the eyes, and ensure the focus stays on the faces and the moment.

But if prints are your thing (like they are mine), balance is the magic word. For example, pair a gingham check with a delicate floral—two patterns that complement each other without clashing. Keep at least a few family members in solids to ground the look. When done thoughtfully, mixing prints can add charm and personality without overwhelming the photos.

Prioritize Comfort

This one can’t be stressed enough: comfort is key. Family photos already involve a bit of wrangling, especially with little ones, so the last thing you need is fussy clothing making anyone cranky.

Ask yourself: is your family more relaxed and casual, or do they enjoy dressing up for occasions? Let that guide your outfit choices. If your partner feels most themselves in jeans and boots, lean into that. If your kids can’t stand scratchy sweaters, skip them. Genuine smiles come easiest when everyone feels at ease, and that comfort will show in your photos.

Don’t Forget the Fun

At the end of the day, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s joy. Coordinating outfits is important, but what matters most is the laughter, the playful moments, and the connection captured in each shot. So don’t be afraid to let kids run through leaves, sneak in tickle fights, or sip hot cider together mid-shoot. Those are the photos that truly tell your family’s story.

Inspiration to Get You Started

If you’re still feeling stuck, here are a few foolproof outfit ideas to inspire your next family photo session:

• Pumpkin Patch Chic: Think denim with cozy sweaters in cream and rust tones, paired with leather boots. Add a plaid scarf for texture.
• Sunflower Field Whimsy: Flowing dresses in soft neutrals or dusty pastels, linen shirts for men, and straw hats for kids. Keep accessories simple to let the flowers shine.
• Rustic Woodland Vibes: Layer earthy greens, tans, and warm burgundy tones. Think corduroy, flannel accents, and knit beanies for a cozy touch.
• Front Porch Classic: Neutral basics like navy, beige, or ivory accented with pops of autumn orange or mustard yellow for a timeless holiday card look.

Final Thoughts

Family photos are as much about the experience as they are about the end result. With a little planning—choosing the right palette, balancing prints and solids, and ensuring comfort—you’ll create images that feel both cohesive and authentic.

So as you head out to capture this beautiful season, remember to relax, laugh, and soak in the moment. Years from now, when you look back at these pictures, you won’t just see coordinated outfits—you’ll remember the love, the warmth, and the joy of being together.