Fall is the most magical time for family photos in Colorado. The golden light, crisp air, and beautiful colors create the perfect backdrop. But let’s be honest— a Fall Family Photo Session can feel a little overwhelming. The good news? It doesn’t have to be!
After photographing hundreds of families, I’ve learned a few things that make a big difference. These five tips will help you feel relaxed, keep your kids happy, and make the whole experience stress-free.
1. Plan a Chill Day for Your Fall Family Photo Session
It’s best to keep the day of your session low-key. A full schedule—like birthday parties, hikes, or zoo trips—might leave your kids overstimulated or overtired. Instead, keep the day relaxed. Save the high-energy outings for another day, and let your session be the main event. A calm day leads to happy kids, and happy kids make for beautiful, joyful photos.
2. Choose the Right Location
Where you take your photos sets the tone for the entire session. If you’re someone who gets anxious when your kids are climbing rocks, a location like Garden of the Gods might not be the best fit. On the other hand, if your kids love to run and explore, a wide-open mountain meadow could be perfect.
We’ll work together to choose a location that matches your family’s vibe—and keeps everyone safe and happy.
3. Prepare Outfits Early
Outfits can be one of the biggest sources of stress—so plan them at least two weeks in advance. Choose your outfit first, then build the rest of the family’s look around it. Think cozy layers, warm tones, and comfort.
Having everything prepped and ready ahead of time means no last-minute scrambling. On the day of your Fall Family Photo Session, you’ll feel calm and confident—and that energy matters!
4. Pack the Essentials (and Leave Distractions Behind)
What to bring:
- Water bottles – Kids often get thirsty while running and playing.
- Baby wipes – Great for wiping faces, hands, or little noses.
- Photo-friendly layers – Colorado evenings can get chilly, especially in fall.
- Backup clothes for little ones – Just in case!
What not to bring:
- Snacks during the session – I recommend feeding the kids before and saving the treats for afterwards. Snacks like lollipops or chewy bars can cause sticky hands, messy faces, or even meltdowns when it’s time to put them away.
- Any toys that you don’t want included in the session. There favorite toy might provide comfort or a distraction but more often than not it creates a meltdown when we try to take it away.
5. Keep Kids Awake on the Drive to your Fall Family Photo Session
If your session is in the evening and you’ve got a bit of a drive, be sure to keep the kids awake in the car. A nap right before the session can lead to crankiness and a long warm-up period once we start.
Play music, sing songs, or let them watch a show—whatever it takes to keep them awake until you get to your session. You’ll thank yourself when they arrive happy and ready to play.
Bonus: Let Go of Perfection
It’s totally normal to want everything to go perfectly—but real magic happens when you let go and just enjoy the moment. Don’t stress about a little dust on pants or windblown hair. If you’re relaxed and having fun, your kids will follow your lead.
Let them explore, be silly, and just be themselves. Those are the moments that make the best memories—and the best photos.
Trust the Process (and Your Photographer!)
I’ve been doing this for years, and I promise I’ve seen it all—meltdowns, messy moments, and everything in between. I know how to gently guide your family into natural, connected moments. So trust the process, lean into the joy, and let me take care of the rest.
Ready to Book your Fall Family Photo Session?
Want to schedule your own Fall Family Photo Session in Colorado Springs? I offer a limited number of fall sessions each year, and they fill up quickly! Book your session today or contact me to learn more.
