In my opinion, Fall is one of the most magical times of the year for capturing stunning photos. The vibrant colors, crisp air, and cozy vibes make it a perfect season to get creative with your camera. As a mom of five, I’m always trying to capture my kids in these fleeting fall moments. I’m excited to share some tips on using the natural elements to elevate your fall photography. Let’s dive in!

THE BEAUTY OF FALL FOLIAGE

First things first— what is fall photography without foliage! Fall foliage is the star of the show. The reds, oranges, and yellows of the leaves create a breathtaking backdrop for any photo. Using fall foliage in your portrait photography can really make your photos pop with color and warmth! The vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the leaves create a stunning, natural backdrop that adds a cozy, seasonal vibe to your shots. To add depth to your photos, look for layers in your composition by including foreground elements like fallen leaves or branches.

COZY TEXTURES AND LAYERS

Fall is all about cozy textures and layers and we want to use them in our fall photography. Think chunky sweaters, scarves, and boots. These elements not only keep you warm but also add depth and interest to your photos. Try to coordinate your subjects outfits with the fall colors. Earth tones like browns, greens, and creams work beautifully against the autumn backdrop. Bring along a cozy blanket for your photoshoot. It can be used as a prop for sitting or wrapping up in, adding a warm and inviting feel to your images.

HARVEST TIME PROPS

Fall is harvest season, and there are plenty of natural props you can incorporate into your fall photography. Pumpkins and gourds are quintessential fall props. Arrange them in a rustic setting or have the kids hold them for a festive touch. And don’t forget to carve those pumpkins! Pumpkin carving makes for a great photoshoot. Be sure to capture all those expressions!

Apple picking is another fun fall activity and makes for great photos. Capture the kids reaching for apples, carrying baskets, or taking a bite of a juicy apple. If you’re near a farm, hay bales can also be a fantastic prop. They add a rustic charm and can be used for seating or as a backdrop. Cornfields are another great option as well! I just adore the look and feel of dried corn in photographs like the one I took below. It just oozes fall vibes!

 

ACORNS AND PINECONES

Adding acorns and pinecones to your portrait photography can bring a charming, earthy vibe to your shots. These little nature treasures are perfect for creating a warm, autumn feel. You can sprinkle them around your subject to make a natural frame or add some interesting foreground details that draw attention to your main focus. Have your subject hold a handful of acorns or a pinecone – it adds a playful touch and makes the photo feel more connected to the environment. You can also pop them in the background or use them as props to tell a story and give your photos more depth. 

GOLDEN FALL LIGHT

Golden hour is always a photographer’s dream, but there’s something extra magical about it in the fall. As the sun starts to dip, it casts a warm, golden glow that makes everything look like it’s bathed in honey. In the fall, this light plays off the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the changing leaves, creating a stunning, almost surreal backdrop. The cooler air often means clearer skies, so the light is crisp and clean, making colors pop even more. Plus, the lower angle of the sun during this time of year gives longer, softer shadows that add depth and dimension to your photos. It’s like nature’s own filter, making everything look cozy and vibrant. So, if you want those dreamy, golden-hued shots, fall’s golden hour is the perfect time to get out there with your camera!

REFLECTIONS AND WATER ELEMENTS

Fall reflections in water can seriously up your portrait photography game! Imagine capturing those stunning autumn colors mirrored perfectly in a calm lake or pond – it’s like doubling the beauty in your shot. The reflections add an extra layer of depth and symmetry, making your photos look more dynamic and interesting. Plus, the stillness of the water can create a dreamy, almost magical feel that really enhances the overall vibe of your portraits. Whether you’re shooting by a small puddle or a big lake, incorporating those fall reflections can turn a good photo into a great one.

CANDID MOMENTS IN NATURE

Some of the best photos are the candid ones. Let the kids play, explore, and interact with the natural elements around them. Capture their genuine expressions and the joy of discovering the wonders of fall. Kids have this amazing ability to get completely lost in their surroundings, whether they’re chasing butterflies, collecting leaves, or splashing in puddles. To capture these moments, just let them be themselves and explore. Avoid posing them too much; instead, follow their lead and be ready to snap those spontaneous moments of wonder and excitement. Get down to their level to see the world from their perspective, and don’t be afraid to get a little messy – sometimes the best shots come from getting right in the thick of things with them. The result? Beautiful, candid photos that truly capture the magic of childhood and the beauty of nature in your fall photography.

Photo Ideas: 

• Encourage the kids to toss leaves into the air. The flying leaves and their delighted faces make for some fantastic action shots.
• Take a walk through the woods or a park and capture the kids as they explore. The natural curiosity and wonder of children make for the sweetest photos.

SEASONAL ACTIVITIES

Incorporating fall seasonal activities into your fall photography can add a fun and lively twist to your shots! Think about all the classic autumn activities like pumpkin picking, hayrides, or apple picking – each offers a unique backdrop and a chance to capture candid moments. These activities not only provide a vibrant setting with all the rich fall colors, but they also bring out genuine emotions and interactions that make for truly memorable photos. Plus, activities like jumping into a pile of leaves or sipping hot cider can add a cozy, nostalgic feel to your images.

Fall is a photographer’s dream, with its rich colors, cozy textures, and endless opportunities for creativity. By incorporating the natural elements of the season, you can capture the essence of fall and create beautiful, memorable photos. So grab your camera, bundle up, and head outside to embrace the beauty of autumn. Happy shooting! And for more tips to elevate your fall photography check out my blog post here!

XO,

Ruth

Ruth Young is a professional, portrait photographer and photography educator located in Culpeper, Virginia. She photographs her daily life with her 5 small children and has a passion for teaching photography. For more about Ruth follow her on Instagram where she posts daily.

P.S. I’m participating in a super fun blog circle with some of my photographer friends this month. Check out Michele and her beautiful blog post all about a Minneapolis Motherhood Photo Session.