How to Rock Your Family’s Fall Photo Session (Without Losing Your Mind)

Fall in the Blue Ridge Mountains is basically Mother Nature showing off. Crisp air, crunchy leaves, golden light—and the perfect backdrop for your family photos. But let’s be real: wrangling kids, pets, and partners into a photo session can feel like herding caffeinated squirrels. That’s where I come in—with a little guidance to make your session not just painless, but actually fun.

1. Outfits: Keep It Cozy, Not Matchy-Matchy

Listen, we’re not auditioning for a denim commercial from the ‘90s. (Put the matching white shirts away, I beg you.) Instead, think coordinated over identical. Choose 2–3 main colors inspired by fall—think earthy neutrals, deep greens, soft brown, creamy white, burnt orange. Layer textures (flannels, knits, denim, boots) so everyone looks pulled together but comfortable. Pro tip: If your toddler insists on wearing their dinosaur rain boots… roll with it. Future-you will laugh. Promise.

2. Timing Is Everything

Sessions are designed to catch the best light and the most natural smiles. Because of that, showing up on time is crucial. Arrive at least 10-15 minutes early so no one’s frazzled and the kids have a chance to settle in. Trust me, no one wants “we-just-ran-from-the-car” sweaty faces in their heirloom photos. This is especially crucial for mini sessions as they start and end at a designated time.

3. Bribes Are Welcome (I Mean… Incentives)

Call it what you want—snacks, treats, promises of post-session ice cream in Black Mountain—but a little motivation goes a long way. Just avoid anything too messy (chocolate and white sweaters are not friends). Goldfish crackers? Perfect. A lollipop that dyes tongues blue? Maybe not.

4. Let Go of “Perfect”

I’ll let you in on a secret: the best photos aren’t the stiff “cheese” smiles. They’re the in-between giggles, the tickle fights, the snuggles, and even the toddler meltdown that turns into a goofy cuddle pile. Your job is to show up and love on your people. My job is to make magic out of it.

5. Embrace the Season

Fall is fleeting around Asheville—one gust of mountain wind and half the leaves are gone. So soak it in! Wear that cozy scarf, let your kids throw some leaves in the air, and don’t stress about the stray hair out of place. Real is beautiful.

Final Thought

Family photos shouldn’t feel like a chore. They should feel like pressing “pause” on the chaos of life to celebrate your people, in all their quirky glory. And bonus—you get Christmas card material checked off your list before Halloween candy is even gone.

So take a deep breath, pack the snacks, and I’ll see you in front of the lens. Asheville and Black Mountain never looked so good… and neither will you.