fall

A few weekends ago we had our fall family photo shoot. I was so excited to have professional photos done of the family. This was our first time having pictures done of all three of us together since our newborn photo shoot.

I am absolutely in love with the way they all came out and thought I’d share some tips along with our photos.

1.) First things first, pick a photographer

This should be obvious, but choosing a photographer can be tough. I found searching through social media to be super helpful. You can look through a photographer’s work and choose someone who has a similar look that you are going for. Also ask your family and friends for any recommendations.
For our photos we went with Emma from Bella Baby Photography. I first met Emma when she came around and did newborn shots of the babies at the hospital where I worked. You definitely want to work with someone you click with and who you can be relaxed around.

2.) Choose your location

In choosing a location for photos, not only do you want a place with some aesthetically pleasing scenery, but I think it’s also special to pick a place your family loves or that has some meaning.  We chose a nearby park that we go to all the time. For all of my readers who are local to the Albany area, we went to the Crossings Park in Colonie. Their grounds are absolutely gorgeous.

3.) Coordinate outfits

Remember the old days when families would get all dressed up in matching khakis and white shirts for their family photos? Oh man, I do. I can’t tell you how many photos my sisters and I had with those hideous backgrounds at Jc Penney’s or Sears with all three of us girls in matching dresses. (I think that was the thing back then).
It’s nice for your outfits to coordinate somewhat, but to me, I don’t like when everyone’s all matchy matchy. Instead, choose neutrals and then some accent colors. I really wanted my son to be the focus of our photos so I dressed him in a cute plaid shirt.  I chose a nice gray sweater with a plaid button up for my husband and then a cute denim dress with a flannel scarf for me.  I went with colors that would go with the fall scenery.

4.) Work around nap time, meals, and bring bribery

Ok so we all know that kids are totally unpredictable. Make sure the littles have had a nap and have full bellies so that they’re content. I am also a firm believer in bribery (whatever works right?). So pack some goldfish or M&Ms to keep those kiddos happy.

5.) Keep it simple

And lastly, keep it simple. While you want to have an idea of what you want, try not to plan too much and just go with the flow.  You don’t need an elaborate outfit scheme or lots of props either. Honestly, I think sometimes the simpler the better. Just let them capture your family being you and having fun!

Thank you Emma at Bella Baby Photography for capturing these treasured moments! 

To book Bella Baby Photography for your own family photos you can contact them at:

email life@bellababyphotography.com or by phone 800-863-0805