A park painted in red and gold

The maples did the styling for us. Reds, golds, and soft greens wrapped this family in color, and the ground rustled with leaves. Their goal was simple: capture everyone now, before little legs grew longer and cheeks thinned.

Life raced when Kennedy arrived, so newborn photographs never happened. That’s common, and it’s okay. We chose peak color instead, which gave us gentle light, rich tones, and a calm pace. Six months suits Kennedy well—steady sitting, bright eyes, and a quiet focus that turns into a grin once she trusts the scene.

For more sessions with this feel, browse the family portfolio.

Play first, posed second

Great portraits start with play, not stiff posing. We kept directions short and specific—sit close, lean in, touch foreheads—then let the family interact. The results look polished because the connection is real.

Lincoln sets the tempo

Two-year-old energy runs hot and happy, so we followed Lincoln’s lead. He ran across the grass, circled back for cuddles, and checked on his baby sister like a seasoned pro.

He held Kennedy’s hand, kissed her head, and flashed a proud grin that carried through the whole set. Movement kept him engaged and gave the gallery a rhythm parents love.

Kennedy warms to the lens

Kennedy arrived a bit stoic. We gave her a minute, stayed soft and steady, and let Mom whisper near her ear.

Then that grin arrived—wide and gummy—and the portraits opened up. Her knit romper and berry headband played beautifully with the leaves, so every frame felt warm and cohesive.

Six months of Kennedy, two years of Lincoln

Skipping newborn pictures can feel like a loss, but six months brings its own magic. Babies hold their heads, grab toes, and sit with support, so expressions shine and siblings can interact safely. Lincoln loved “helping,” and the sibling pictures carry a sweetness that’s hard to stage at any other age.

Why fall delivers

Late-day autumn light is kind to skin, and the trees act like a natural backdrop. We watch the color forecast and choose a week that gives the best mix of tones. If you like to plan ahead, the Connecticut Deep Fall Foliage report is handy. For baby comfort, lots of simple layers matter; the AAP’s quick guide to dressing for weather is clear and reliable.

From gallery to album

This family had many favorites, so an album made sense. Albums protect prints, gather a season of life into one place, and invite kids to turn pages with you.

How we design

We start with a curated gallery. Parents star must-haves; I build clean spreads that breathe. One hero photograph makes the cover, then al of the other  portraits carry the story. I repeat color accents—Lincoln’s corduroy, Kennedy’s berry bow—so the eye moves easily from page to page. Materials are archival and sturdy. Explore more albums and wall art on our Signature Products page. Curious about fall colors for family photos? Pantone’s current autumn notes explain why warm tones flatter skin without stealing focus (Pantone).

Plan your own colorful fall family photos

You don’t need perfect behavior; you need a plan that respects attention spans. I bring prompts, a tiny bench, a plaid blanket, and a route that keeps feet moving while light stays gorgeous.

What to wear

Start with two neutrals and one accent. The best colors for fall family photos are always jewel tones, as they mimic the richness and depth of color found in the leaves. Knit, corduroy, denim, and suede look great near foliage, and they layer cleanly. Avoid tiny stripes and loud logos. Dress the baby one layer warmer than you. For more ideas, view my Fall Clothing Ideas post.

Booking and timing

Peak color shifts by a week here and there, so we hold a primary date and a backup. Sessions usually last about an hour, which fits a toddler’s window and a baby’s feeding schedule. After the session, you’ll see a refined gallery with options for wall art and albums. Ready to chat dates or ask about access needs? Start on the contact page or view family session pricing.

FAQ

How long do colorful fall family photos take?
Most sessions run 40-60 minutes. That length leaves room for breaks and keeps kids fresh.

What if my toddler won’t sit still?
We don’t force stillness. We use games and quick prompts, and we build portraits around motion.

Can grandparents join?
Yes. We make a short list, photograph those portraits first, and let the grandparents relax afterward.

What should my six-month-old wear? Soft layers, warm socks, and maybe mittens or a hat. Pack a spare outfit in case of accidents.

Do you help with wall art and albums?
Yes. I help guide sizes and layout based on your tastes and desires. We design together so the result fits your home.

What if foliage peaks early or late?
We track color and adjust. Parks stay beautiful through the full range of tones.

Color fades, but these portraits hold steady. Lincoln’s easy laugh and Kennedy’s late-breaking smile sit side by side in their album, and that simple book turns a fast season into something you can hold. When you’re ready for your own colorful fall family photos, contact us. We’ll make the plan, keep it light, and let your family be themselves.