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In Elk Grove, CA

Fall Family Photos

Dressing for Fall Family Photos in Elk Grove, CA

As the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp, it's the perfect time for fall family photos in Elk Grove. But what should you wear to capture those cozy autumn vibes? Here are some tips to ensure your family looks picture-perfect while staying comfortable in our local fall weather.

Embrace Fall Colors

  1. Rich, Warm Tones: Think deep reds, burnt oranges, mustard yellows, and forest greens. These colors complement the changing leaves and create a cohesive autumn look.

  2. Earth Tones: Neutral browns, tans, and creams work well as base colors and pair nicely with bolder fall hues.

Layer Up

Elk Grove's fall weather can be unpredictable, so layers are key:

  1. Light Jackets: Denim jackets, cardigans, or lightweight blazers add texture and can be easily removed if it warms up.

  2. Scarves and Accessories: These can add pops of color and are easy to put on or take off as needed.

Texture is Your Friend

  1. Cozy Fabrics: Incorporate soft knits, corduroy, or flannel for that quintessential fall feel.

  2. Mix and Match: Combine different textures to add visual interest – think a cable-knit sweater with a smooth skirt or textured vest over a plain shirt.

Coordinate, Don't Match

As with any family photo session:

  1. Choose a Color Palette: Select 2-3 complementary colors and have family members wear variations of these shades.

  2. Avoid Identical Outfits: Instead of matching exactly, aim for a cohesive look with varied pieces.

Comfort is Key

  1. Movable Clothes: We might sit on the ground or walk through parks, so choose outfits that allow for easy movement.

  2. Appropriate Footwear: Opt for closed-toe shoes or boots that suit the season and location.

Elk Grove-Specific Tips

  1. Be Prepared for Sun: Our fall days can still be sunny, so bring sunglasses just in case.

  2. Consider Local Backdrops: If we're shooting in places like Elk Grove Regional Park, choose colors that won't clash with the natural surroundings.

What to Avoid

  1. Neon Colors: These can reflect unflattering colors onto your skin.

  2. Large Logos or Graphics: These can be distracting in photos.

  3. Ultra-Trendy Pieces: Stick to classic styles that won't look dated quickly.

Remember, the goal is to look and feel your best. Your outfits should enhance, not overshadow, your family's natural connection and joy. If you need more inspiration, check out my Pinterest board for fall family photo ideas, or don't hesitate to reach out for personalized advice!

Happy fall, Elk Grove families! I can't wait to capture your autumn memories.

Take a look and see how other families have styled their fall family photos in Elk Grove.

What will we do in our session?

CONNECTION - NOT PERFECTION

Embrace the Cozy Fall Moments!

As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, it's time to capture your family's warmth amidst the autumn beauty. This session is about freezing those precious fall moments - the genuine laughs, the cuddly embraces, and the playful energy that makes your family unique.

Imagine the crunch of leaves beneath your feet as we explore the vibrant fall scenery. While I might occasionally ask you to look at the camera, most of the time, I'll encourage you to connect with each other. Parents, take in the wonder in your children's eyes as they marvel at the changing colors around them. Partners, share those knowing glances that speak volumes about your journey together.

If your little ones want to toss leaves in the air or chase after a falling acorn, that's perfect! Their enthusiasm is what makes fall so magical. Don't worry about posed perfection - let's capture the authentic joy of your family enjoying the season together.

We'll make the most of the cozy fall atmosphere - maybe snuggling under a warm blanket, sharing a thermos of hot cocoa, or playing a game of leaf-pile jump. We might stand among the trees, sit on a rustic bench, or lay on a picnic blanket surrounded by autumn's palette.

Remember, this is about celebrating your family's connection in this beautiful season. So relax, have fun, and let the fall magic spark those genuine smiles and tender moments. Low stress, high on autumn charm!

And while smiles are great, laughter is even better!

Session Tips

DON’T TELL THE KIDS TO SAY ‘CHEESE’

My job as your family photographer is get to genuine, candid smiles from everyone. I work hard to get those smiles for you. Saying ‘cheese’ or telling your child to smile actually prevents me from doing this, and results in fake smiles. I want the whole family to enjoy their session, relax, and laugh. That’s what allows me to capture those true smiles!

DON’T STAND NEXT TO THE PHOTOGRAPHER

I strive to focus on capturing images that show connection and storytelling for my family photo sessions. This means that not all images will show everyone looking directly at the camera. However, I do always try to grab that one perfect “everyone-look-at-the-camera-and-smile” shot.

I LOVE that parents want to help get the kids to smile. After all, you are the ones who make them smile everyday and know how to get a good one. However, if you stand next to the camera, those adorable kiddos will be looking next to the camera, instead of at the camera.

Take a look at this handsome guy - you can see in the first picture he is looking at a parent standing to my left, instead of right at me. The picture on the right, you can see he’s looking at me and there’s a connection with his eyes and my camera.

A good way to avoid this would be to stand directly behind the photographer and play peek-a-boo. That will give us a chance to grab a photo of them looking right toward the camera.

If you’re in the photo, be sure to let me work for those smiles! Most of the time, I will get the cutest smiles out of the kids when the parents are not looking at the camera because they are looking at the kids to see if they are smiling. Your job is to keep looking and smiling at the camera, while I engage the little ones.

Naps—they’re not just for kids!   Children who normally nap should definitely get their nap in before our session if possible.  While you’re at it, take one yourself!

Empty bellies = bad smiles!  Children and adults should eat before the session to ensure happiness and energy!  Make sure to check faces and especially teeth for crumbs and leftovers! Dry, colorless snacks like crackers, animal cookies, and water are good to bring if you think your child will need to refuel. 

Bribery - it’s only bad if it doesn’t work!  I do my best to make our sessions fun and low stress, but every now and then, some kids just aren’t into it.  I recommend having a bribe or two in your back pocket just in case.

Last Thoughts and FAQ’s

Communication - If you have any questions, need guidance, or just want to chat about your session - I’m here to support you! Please email, text or call!

Please arrive early !  Your session is timed for optimal sunlight and I cannot guarantee that we can go past our allotted time, so please arrive at least 5 minutes before we are due to begin. 

Weather  -  I will consult with you about the weather one day before the session if it looks like we could have extreme heat/rain/extreme cold/etc. Generally, unless it is raining at the time of our session, we will go forward. (Unless you want photos in the rain - which I’m all for!)  I will bring plastic to go under the blanket to try to keep you dry, but expect to get a little wet and muddy if it’s been a wet week.   

Payments  -  If your session requires a deposit, that payment is due at the time of booking and counts towards your total package price. Final payments are due at the time of your session and can be made by cash, check or Venmo.

Cancellations  -  Except for emergencies (yes, sick kids count!), cancellations must be 24 hours or more before your session in order to reschedule without losing your deposit.  I’ve blocked out that time for you, so please do your best to make it.

After your session - I will send your gallery to you by email within 7 days (7-14 days during peak times). I will let you know at your session what your time frame is. Once you receive your gallery, you will have the opportunity to select which photos from your session you’d like as your final images. Those will then receive standard editing and then be re-uploaded to your gallery so that you can download them. If you decide that you like more of the photos than what your package allows - you can always purchase additional photos. Please just let me know.

 Let me know if there are any other questions!  See you soon!