Fall is always one of the most popular times of year to take family photos. The changing leaves create such a beautiful backdrop and the crisp autumn air will make you want to get close to the ones you love. Whether it’s documenting another year together or getting the perfect shot for that infamous holiday card, there’s always an excuse to get outside for a family photo.

Phil and I always look forward to getting a few family photo sessions in during the fall because there are so many great backdrops from pumpkin patches to apple orchards and even local parks with colorful leaves. We love getting outside as much as we can to do some of our favorite fall activities. Even if you’re not a blogger or a photographer, photos are such a great way to create lasting memories that you can look back on. I love looking through old pictures and seeing how much Phil and I have grown, especially in our relationship and our little fur family. While I can easily pull together an outfit for myself, putting together coordinating looks can be more of a challenge so today I wanted to share a few tips on what to wear for fall family photos at some of my favorite locations.

 Outfit Details:  Mango Faux Leather Jacket | Burberry Scarf | Mango Black Denim | H&M Ivory V-Neck Sweater | Saint Laurent Envelope Bag | Kendall + Kylie Booties
| Topman Faux Leather Jacket (on Phil) | H&M Black Turtleneck (on Phil) | H&M Burgundy Pants (on Phil) | Dog Leashes

Pumpkin Patch Outfits

Aside from picking the right outfit, the location is just as important. Over the years, I’ve narrowed down my favorite backdrop for family photos to just a few spots. The first one being the pumpkin patch. I love how the orange adds that touch of fall. It’s so festive – and pumpkins make a great prop for natural, lifestyle photos. Here’s what to wear:

Leather Jacket

With the weather being cooler, a leather jacket is the perfect way to add a light layer. Whenever I want to dress up everyday basics, I know a faux or real leather jacket can make any outfit look chic yet edgy. A leather jacket is usually what Phil and I reach for before heading out the door during the fall so coordinating leather looks feels effortless.

For Her

For Him

Sweater

Since it is sweater weather, a cozy top is essential. From chunky knits to off-the-shoulder styles, a slightly oversized sweater will add the best fall feels. This year I got Phil to go for a chunky turtleneck – which always elevates an outfit. I tend to stick with neutral colors to really let the colors of the location pop.

For Her

For Him

 Outfit Details: Intermix Sweater (wearing a size P, better for budget here) | L’Agence Denim (wearing a 23 – size down) | Similar Plaid Poncho | Gucci Belt (read my ‘Gucci Belt Sizing Guide’ HERE) | Similar Gray Booties | North Face Vest (on Phil) | Gray Henley (on Phil) | Similar Red Denim (on Phil) | Similar Brown Boots (on Phil)

Jeans

Regardless of where you’re taking photos, I always feel that it’s important to match your outfit to the location. Since pumpkin patches are more of a casual setting, I like to wear jeans. I love distressed styles since they look effortless and feel a bit undone.

For Her

For Him

Scarf

Nothing looks cozier than a scarf wrapped around your neck. If you’re not in the mood for layering on a jacket, you can always accessorize your outfit with an oversized, blanket scarf.

Boots

To play on the casual look, block-heel booties are my top choice when it comes to footwear. It makes walking on uneven ground so much easier.

 Outfit Details: Burberry Trench (wearing a US 0) | Burberry Scarf (also here) | Gucci Bag (also here) | Free People Red Sweater Dress (exact color sold out, wearing an XS) | Stuart Weitzman Over-The-Knee Boots | Similar Burberry Scarf (also here, on him) | Ferragamo Belt (on him) | Dog Leashes

Apple Orchard Outfits

For a backdrop that’s more versatile, I love going to the apple orchard. I always try to get a few family photo sessions in during the season and the apple orchard is where I put together slightly dressier looks. Shooting between the trees always feels a bit secluded – and more romantic.

Light Jacket

I love throwing on light jackets that can elevate any outfit from casual looks to dresses. For the last two years now, I’ve reached for my favorite trench coat – and I love that it always looks polished in photos (camel coats have the same effect).

Sweater Dress

For a dressier outfit that’s still slightly casual, a sweater dress is my go-to. They’re just so easy to throw on with a pair of knee-high or over-the-knee boots – and they always look chic.

High Boots

I’m often pairing tall boots with sweater dresses because it’s a foolproof combo that never fails to look great in photos. Over-the-knee boots tend to dress up a sweater dress while knee-high boots lend a casual touch.

Although these are outfits I love for the pumpkin patch and apple orchard, they can work anywhere from your backyard to the mountains for beautiful fall family photos.

xo, Maria

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