A Complete Guide to Fall Family Photo Ideas in Nashville

Fall is truly a magical time in Nashville, especially for family photos. The vibrant hues of the changing leaves, the crispness in the air, and the soft glow of the earlier sunsets all combine to create a picture-perfect backdrop for capturing family memories. As a Nashville family photographer, I’ve witnessed firsthand how this season brings out the best in both the scenery and the families I work with. Whether it’s celebrating back-to-school milestones or layering up in cozy fall outfits, there are countless reasons why fall is the ideal time to book your family photo session. We’re going to dive into all of my fall family photo ideas below, but if you’re looking for more information, head here to learn more about my Nashville family photography packages, or contact me to book your session!

Why Fall is the Perfect Time for Family Photos in Nashville

I know I might be biased as a Nashville family photographer, but fall in Nashville is truly one of the most beautiful times of the year. With the leaves changing color, the sun setting earlier, and the weather cooling off, it’s the perfect time to schedule your family photo session.

Here are a few reasons why you should take advantage of this beautiful season for family pictures:

1. 1. Back-to-School Milestones: September is when families are getting back into the school routine, which makes it the perfect time to celebrate this new chapter in your kids’ lives.
   2. Cooler Weather: And this means you get more outfit choices! The light jackets and cozy layers you’ll wear during fall add texture and depth to your photos, and no one is complaining about feeling overheated!
   3. Earlier Golden Hour: In the fall, the golden hour (the time right before sunset when the sunlight is soft and golden) comes earlier in the evening, making it more convenient for families with young kids. We can plan your session to catch that stunning light without interfering with bedtime routines. And trust me, Nashville’s fall sunsets are truly magical—deep oranges, golds, and pinks light up the sky and create that perfect glow in every shot.

Best Photo Locations in Nashville for Fall Family Photos

Now that I’ve convinced you, let’s talk about locations. One of the best things about doing family photos in Nashville is the variety of stunning locations to choose from. Whether you’re looking for an urban vibe, a rustic countryside feel, or a colorful park setting, Nashville has it all.

Here are a few of my personal favorites as a Nashville Family Photographer:

• Centennial Park: Wide-open spaces, gorgeous trees, and the iconic Parthenon.
• Percy Warner Park: If you love the idea of a forested, nature-filled backdrop, Percy Warner Park is a favorite spot for families.
• Downtown Nashville: If you want more “skyline” than nature, we have plenty of iconic locations to choose from like the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge or the streets of 12 South.
• Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park: This park has a beautiful view of the Tennessee Capitol building and a great mix of architectural and nature backdrops.
• Your Own Backyard: Hear me out – sometimes, the best photos are taken right at home. Your backyard or neighborhood park can be just as special, especially if it’s a place your family loves. Plus, it adds an extra layer of personal meaning to your photos.

Dressing for the Fall Family Photos

Let’s be honest, one of the most fun parts of planning a family photo session is picking out your outfits! Fall gives you the opportunity to wear cozy layers and play with colors that complement the season’s natural beauty. Here are a few of my favorite tips when choosing your outfits for your fall family photos in Nashville.

Layers Are Key

In Nashville, fall weather can be unpredictable. Some days are brisk and cool, while others are warmer. Layers allow you to adapt to the temperature while adding visual interest to your photos. Think cardigans, scarves, jackets, and textured fabrics like wool or flannel. There really isn’t a bad option!

Coordinate Without Matching

When dressing your family, aim for coordinated outfits that complement each other, rather than matching outfits. In the fall, it can be a great idea to choose a color palette that works well together and lends itself to the fall colors—think warm fall tones like mustard yellow, deep reds, burnt oranges, and earthy greens. While you can always wear what you want, I recommend you avoid overly bright or clashing colors, as they can distract from the natural beauty around you.

Textures and Patterns

Additionally, mixing textures and subtle patterns can add depth to your photos. Plaid is always a fall favorite, but you can also incorporate knit sweaters, denim, and corduroy to create a layered, cozy look.

Footwear Matters

Lastly, since we’ll likely be walking or standing on grassy or uneven surfaces, choose comfortable footwear that looks good but won’t leave you miserable by the end of the session. Boots are a great option for fall—they’re practical, stylish, and seasonally appropriate!

Working with a Photographer Who Helps You Plan (Hint: That’s Me!)

As your Nashville family photographer, I understand how important it is to plan a session that reflects your family’s personality and ensures everyone has fun. I help guide you through every step of the process—from picking the right location to suggesting outfit ideas and keeping your kids engaged during the session.

During the shoot, I focus on capturing those real, candid moments that tell the story of your family’s love and connection. You won’t feel stiff or overly posed; instead, we’ll embrace movement and fun, so your kids will actually enjoy the experience. I’ve found that when families are relaxed and having fun, the most magical photos happen naturally.

I believe with all my heart that family photo sessions should be fun, not stressful. When you hire me, I will work hard to keep your kids entertained and engaged, so they’re laughing and playing, not dreading the camera. I find that candid moments—like the way your child runs toward you or the sweet look your partner gives you when you’re all giggling—are what make your family photos so special.

Remember, this is about capturing your family as you are right now, in this season of life. It’s a time to celebrate your love, your quirks, and all the memories you’re making together. Contact me here to get started! 

Before You Go…

Before you head off to start planning your family photo session, I’d love to invite you to download my FREE Family Photography Session Planning & Style Guide. This is a resource I’ve put together specifically to help Nashville families prepare for their photo sessions. From tips on outfits to location ideas, it’s packed with useful information to help make your session stress-free and successful. Grab your copy here!

And don’t forget to dive into this popular blog post (how to plan for a successful family photography session):

How To Plan For A Successful Family Photography Session in Nashville, Tennessee (Your Guide To A Memorable Tennessee Family Photography Session) | by Nashville Family Photographer Dolly DeLong

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