How to Prepare for Your Fall Family Session

How to Prepare for Your Fall Family Session (Without Losing Your Mind)

Let me guess. You want family photos this fall, but the thought of pulling it all together makes you feel like you might spontaneously combust. Between coordinating outfits, wrangling small humans, and hoping your partner doesn’t show up in a hoodie from college, it can feel like more trouble than it’s worth.

But here is the truth. It doesn’t have to be a stress spiral. In fact, it might just be one of the few things this season that makes you pause and feel something real. So let’s walk through how to prep for your session in a way that feels like a deep breath. Not a meltdown.

Let’s Start with What to Wear for Fall Photos

This is where most moms start to spiral. You’re looking at your closet thinking everything is either too tight, too wrinkled, or suspiciously stained. And don’t even get started on what your toddler insists on wearing these days.

Here is the thing. You do not need to reinvent your wardrobe or match everyone in head to toe beige. Fall is already giving you a gorgeous backdrop, so your job is to complement it, not compete with it. Inspired by the warm, neutral palette of Studio McGee

Go for warm, earthy tones. Think oat, rust, soft sage, ivory, camel. Layers are your best friend. A textured cardigan, a soft shawl, a button-down shirt over a knit pullover. They add dimension and movement, which looks beautiful in photos. Keep patterns minimal and subtle. No logos. No cartoon characters. No neon.

For mom, I always suggest starting with something that makes you feel beautiful. A flowy dress, high-waisted trousers with a tucked-in blouse, or a soft sweater with a hint of texture. Choose pieces that move, not squeeze. Trust me. Comfort shows up as confidence.

For kids, it’s all about texture and comfort. Knit rompers, linen tops, cozy cardigans. Soft shoes or barefoot, depending on the location. Nothing fussy. Nothing they’ll be pulling at the whole time.

And for your partner? Give them two options and make it easy. Soft neutrals, clean shoes, and nothing that screams, "I just came from my fantasy football draft." Button-downs, henleys, or sweaters in complementary tones always work.

Still overwhelmed? I’ve curated a downloadable style guide that includes specific outfit combinations, brand recommendations, and color palettes that work beautifully together. You’ll get visual examples, do’s and don’ts, and an easy checklist so nothing gets overlooked. Sign up below and it will land right in your inbox before you even finish your coffee.

DOWNLOADABLE STYLE GUIDE

And here is the best part. Once you’re officially booked, you’ll receive my exclusive monthly Looks Book leading up to your session. This is the guide everyone asks for. It’s packed with seasonal style boards, curated outfit pairings for the whole family, and direct links to purchase pieces you’ll actually want to wear again. It’s like having a personal stylist in your pocket, and yes, it’s included.

Oh, and did I mention? You also have full access to my studio wardrobe, even when we are doing your session outdoors. It’s curated with flattering, timeless pieces for moms and littles. Neutrals, flowy textures, beautifully soft fabrics. All of it available to you so you don’t have to shop unless you really want to.

How to Prep Kids and Partners (Without Bribes or Goldfish)

Let’s talk about the tiny tornadoes you’re bringing to your session. Yes, I mean your children. And yes, they are welcome exactly as they are.

The most important thing you can do to prepare your kids is to not over-prepare. Don’t tell them they have to behave. Don’t practice smiles in the mirror. Don’t threaten them with the loss of Halloween candy if they act up. Instead, talk about it like it’s an adventure. "We’re going to go play with Michele and she’s bringing her camera." Let them bring a comfort item in the car if that helps, but leave it in the vehicle. Give them a snack beforehand. Make sure they’ve rested. Then, let go.

And when the inevitable meltdown, snack demand, or outfit rebellion happens? Don’t panic. I have photographed every kind of toddler. From wild banshee energy to full limp-noodle protest. And I promise, we always get something beautiful.

Now partners. Let’s be honest. Most dads are not out here begging for photo sessions. They want clear expectations and minimal effort. My best tip? Tell them it’s quick. Tell them they don’t have to do anything weird. And if they listen to me, which they always do, I’ll walk them through exactly what to do.

One client told her husband, "Just put on the shirt I laid out and smile when Michele tells you to." He did, and now their framed photo is the centerpiece of their dining room. He’s still talking about how easy it was. The best part? I didn’t even have to tell him to smile. Turns out, he was genuinely having a good time. Go figure.

What Makes My Photo Sessions Actually Enjoyable

Here is where it gets good. Because I don’t just take pretty pictures. I create space. A pause. A little pocket of calm in the middle of your very full life.

We don’t race through poses or force fake smiles. I gently guide you and your crew, but the magic happens in between. When your toddler is climbing your back. When your baby nuzzles in. When your partner gives you that look that says you’re doing a great job.

I’ve spent fifteen years photographing families. That means I’ve seen it all. I know when to pivot. When to distract. When to let things be messy for a minute. You don’t need to apologize for your kids being kids. You don’t need to worry about your postpartum body. You just need to show up. I’ll handle the rest.

Let’s talk logistics. Once you book, I’ll send you a questionnaire to understand your family’s personalities, your vision, and any concerns you may have. From there, I recommend the best location based on light and mood, and guide your wardrobe planning with a mix of my studio collection and personalized style boards tailored for outdoor sessions.

I scout every location beforehand. I’ll know where the light hits just right and where we can tuck in for more intimate, cozy moments. I scout locations for easy access and great light, and I always come prepared with backup essentials like wipes, tissues, and bobby pins. Just bring your people. You don’t need to pack half the nursery. In short, you’re not alone. This isn’t just a photo shoot. It’s a supported experience.

You Deserve to Be in the Frame

This is the part that gets me. So many of you tell me you almost didn’t book. You weren’t feeling confident. You didn’t have time to plan. You thought, "Maybe next year." But next year never slows down.

So here’s what I want you to know. It’s not about having it all together. It’s not about a certain dress size or perfect lighting or the fact that your toddler might refuse shoes. It’s about presence. It’s about proof. Proof that you were there, loving your people through the mess and magic of this season.

Your kids won’t remember if your hair was curled or if your jeans were from last season. They’ll remember your laugh. The way your hands felt. The way you looked at them like they were your whole world.

You belong in the frame.

And if you want a little help feeling your best? I have an amazing list of hair and makeup artists I can refer you to. Whether you want a natural glow or a little extra polish, I’ve got you covered.

Because one day these photos won’t be for you. They’ll be for them.

If you’ve been thinking about booking, here’s your moment. Let this be the year you do it. Let this be the season you make yourself visible.

Peek at my calendar. Or just send me a message and we’ll take it from there.

Fall Family Photo FAQs

How long does a fall family session last?

Sessions typically last 45 to 60 minutes. That gives us plenty of time to capture connection without dragging it out. But here’s the secret — we don’t need the full hour to get something beautiful. If your child lasts thirty minutes, we’re golden. I shoot with purpose, not pressure. We get what we need and wrap it up before anyone hits meltdown mode.

What if the weather doesn’t cooperate?

I keep a close eye on the forecast and if the weather doesn’t cooperate, we’ll reschedule. Just know that flexibility is key, especially in fall. Weekends book quickly, so reschedules may need to happen on a weekday. We’ll work together to find the best possible time.

Can grandparents or pets join the session?

Pets are welcome, but some locations do not allow them, so I’ll need to know ahead of time to plan accordingly. As for grandparents, they are considered extended family and are welcome to join with advance notice and an additional fee. Please don’t surprise me with extra people at the session — it can throw off the dynamic of the session.

Do you offer prints or albums?

Yes. After your session, you’ll receive a proofing gallery to select your favorites. I offer heirloom albums, framed prints, and fine art products that make your memories tangible.

What if my child doesn’t cooperate?

They probably won’t, at least not the whole time. That’s totally normal. I’ve photographed hundreds of families and know how to pivot, distract, and keep the energy fun and light.

Do I really have access to wardrobe pieces for an outdoor shoot?

Yes. My studio wardrobe is fully available to all clients, no matter the location. We’ll coordinate in advance and I’ll bring select pieces with me to your session. You can also schedule a wardrobe consult at my studio beforehand so we can plan ahead and make sure you feel great in what you’re wearing.

Ready to Book?

Book Your Outdoor Photo Session Here

You’ve got enough on your plate. Let me take this one off it. Let’s make something that actually lasts longer than your toddler’s attention span.

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Michele Quattrin is a Minneapolis-based family photographer with a gift for turning real life into refined, heartfelt images. With more than fifteen years behind the lens, Michele specializes in capturing the beautifully unscripted moments of motherhood, childhood, and family connection. Her sessions are known for their calm, candid feel—no stiff poses, no forced smiles—just honest, artful photography that feels as good as it looks.

She offers a full-service experience with a curated studio wardrobe, personalized styling support, and guidance every step of the way. Michele works with busy moms who want to feel seen, supported, and proud of the memories they’re creating. Her work is both emotional and elevated, helping families walk away with more than digital files—she helps them walk away with legacy.

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3 Comments

Jul 24, 2025, 12:32:55 PM

Caroline Eidson - Such helpful tips! Love how you make the whole process feel supported and stress-free - especially for busy parents!

Jul 21, 2025, 8:35:16 PM

Jeri - So much great advice! And your pictures are really gorgeous! They really help me understand how to pull everything together.

Jul 20, 2025, 6:26:42 PM

Sarah - These golden tones are SO GORGEOUS!! Love that you make it so easy for families to plan fall photos – I can tell how much time you put into preparing for them from the style guide to location scouting.

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