Embracing Fall: The Perfect Season for Portraits
September 9, 2025
Shenandoah Valley fall portraits are pure magic, and honestly, autumn is my favorite time of year to be behind the camera. The crisp air, the crunch of leaves underfoot, and the Blue Ridge Mountains glowing with reds, oranges, and golds feel like the perfect invitation to slow down and capture the moment.
I love photographing in every season, but something about fall just hits differently. Families get a little cozier, couples feel more connected, and the scenery makes every photo look like it belongs in a painting.
What I Love About Fall Sessions
The first thing I notice during this season is the light. The sun sits lower, which means softer, golden tones that flatter everyone. I don’t have to work hard to find the perfect backdrop — nature is already showing off with vibrant colors. And honestly? The cooler weather makes the whole experience more enjoyable for kids, couples, and me, too.
Families in the Fall
Fall family sessions are some of my absolute favorites. There’s a relaxed energy to them — kids can toss leaves, run down a colorful trail, or snuggle up under a blanket with their parents. I love capturing those in-between moments, the ones that feel less posed and more real.
It’s also the perfect time to update photos before the holidays. I’ve had families tell me how much they love seeing their fall portraits on Christmas cards or framed on their walls year-round, because the colors bring so much warmth into their homes.
You can peek at my family gallery to see how magical fall can be for portraits.
Couples & Elopements
For couples, fall feels naturally romantic. Maybe it’s the cool air, maybe it’s the way the mountains light up at sunset — but there’s a closeness that comes through every photo. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, planning a proposal, or just wanting updated photos together, fall gives everything a little extra spark.
And if you’re dreaming about eloping, this season is hard to beat. Picture saying your vows on a Blue Ridge overlook, surrounded by fiery leaves stretching for miles. I’ve photographed couples in moments like that, and it never stops taking my breath away.
Styling Tips I Share With Clients
I get asked a lot about what to wear for fall portraits, and my biggest advice is to keep it simple and comfortable. Earthy colors like rust, olive, mustard, and cream look amazing against the fall backdrop. Layers are your friend — not just for warmth but because they add texture and movement to your photos.
And most importantly, wear something you feel good in. The best portraits happen when you can relax, laugh, and just be yourself. I send every client a style guide so you don’t have to stress about it.
Why Fall Feels So Special
One of the reasons I adore this season is that it doesn’t last long. Peak colors sometimes only stick around for a week or two in the mountains. That fleeting beauty is exactly why I think fall photos are so meaningful — they preserve something we’d otherwise only hold in memory.
Let’s Make It Happen
If you’ve been waiting for the “right moment” to update family photos, celebrate your love, or plan an elopement, this is it. Fall doesn’t stick around, but the portraits will.
I’d love to create something unforgettable for you this season. You can reach me through my contact page to start planning your fall session.
