FALL FAMILY PORTRAITS: WHEN TO BOOK & WHAT TO KNOW
Fall is one of our favorite seasons for family portraits in Seattle and the Eastside, and it is easy to see why.
The changing leaves, warm colors, and cozy textures create a beautiful backdrop for images that feel timeless and natural. For many families, fall is also the perfect time to update their artwork, create holiday cards, or simply pause and capture this season of life before it changes.
Because fall is one of the busiest times of year for family portraits, planning ahead can make all the difference. From peak fall color to shorter days and changing weather, here is what to know before scheduling your fall family portrait session.
When Is the Best Time for Fall Colors in Seattle?
One of the most common questions we hear is: “When will the leaves be at their peak?”
In the Seattle area, fall color typically reaches its peak around the third week of October, although the timing can vary from year to year depending on weather and temperatures. If vibrant autumn foliage is your top priority, mid-to-late October is usually the best time to plan your session. If you have more flexibility, early October can also be beautiful, with softer greens, golden tones, and the beginning of the seasonal transition. No matter when you schedule, the Pacific Northwest offers beautiful scenery throughout the fall season.
How Soon Should You Book Fall Family Photos?
Fall is one of our most requested seasons for family portraits, and available dates often fill quickly. Because daylight hours become shorter and weather can be unpredictable, there are fewer ideal outdoor portrait times compared to summer. For the best availability:
August–September: The most flexibility for choosing your preferred date
Late September: Some availability remains, but options become more limited
October: Peak fall season with fewer openings left
If you have a specific weekend, location, or holiday card timeline in mind, booking early gives you the most options.
What Happens If It Rains?
Fall in Seattle is beautiful, but it can also be unpredictable. A cloudy day does not mean a disappointing photo session. In fact, overcast skies create soft, flattering light that photographs beautifully and allows the natural colors of the season to shine.
We always keep an eye on the forecast leading up to each session and communicate with families about weather conditions. We also make sure to leave a little wiggle room on the calendar in case we end up with an extra rainy season.
What Should You Wear for Fall Family Photos?
Choosing outfits is one of the biggest questions families have before their session.
Our biggest recommendation is to dress for the weather you will actually experience. Seattle fall days can range from warm and sunny to cool and crisp, so light layers are often the best choice. We typically recommend avoiding bulky layers like thick jackets and heavy scarves, which can add visual weight and distract from the natural movement and connection in your portraits.
Some favorites include:
Cardigans
Denim jackets
Lightweight sweaters
Button-up shirts
Soft knits
Corduroy and textured fabrics
For colors, fall photographs beautifully with:
Rust
Olive
Cream
Navy
Warm browns
Soft neutrals
Rather than everyone matching, we suggest choosing colors and textures that coordinate naturally and feel like your family.
What Time Are Fall Portrait Sessions?
One thing families are often surprised by is how much earlier fall sessions happen compared to summer.
As the sun sets earlier, golden hour arrives sooner. This may mean adjusting dinner plans, nap schedules, or evening routines, especially with younger children. Simple preparations, like an earlier dinner, a few familiar snacks, and extra time to arrive, can help your family settle in and enjoy the experience together.
Choosing the Right Fall Photo Location
The best location depends on the look and feeling you want your portraits to have. The Seattle area offers many beautiful options for fall family photo locations.
Tree-filled locations create classic autumn portraits with colorful backgrounds.
Open fields provide a softer, more timeless look.
Waterfront locations add variety with natural textures, sky, and reflections.
When choosing a location, consider your family’s comfort, your children’s ages, and how much walking feels realistic.
How to Prepare Kids for Fall Family Photos
Many parents wonder if their children will cooperate during family portraits.
Instead of focusing on getting every child to look at the camera, think about creating an experience where they can relax and be themselves. Some of our favorite images happen in the moments between poses, when children are exploring, laughing, snuggling, or simply enjoying being together.
Before your session:
Dress children comfortably
Bring an extra layer if temperatures drop
Pack snacks or comfort items if helpful
Keep expectations relaxed
For more tips on preparing young children for portraits, check out our blog:
Why Fall Is One of the Best Seasons for Seattle Family Portraits
There is a reason fall continues to be one of the most popular times for family photography.
The season offers:
Beautiful natural colors
Soft, flattering light
Perfect timing for holiday cards
A meaningful opportunity to document your family each year
Families change quickly. Children grow, seasons pass, and everyday moments become memories. A fall family photo session allows you to preserve exactly who your family is right now.
We would love the opportunity to help you capture this season of your family’s story with portraits you can enjoy for years to come.
JEAN JOHNSON PORTRAITS
LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHER | PERSONAL ARTIST | FAMILY HISTORIAN
CONNECT WITH US:
Instagram: @jjshotme
Facebook: Jean Johnson Portraits
Serving as family portrait photographers for families in Sammamish, Issaquah, Snoqualmie, Redmond, Bellevue, Kirkland, Mercer Island, North Bend, Carnation, Woodinville, and the greater Seattle area.