Top Tips for Planning (and Crushing) Your Fall Family Photo Session
Fall in Erie, PA—especially around iconic spots like Presque Isle State Park and Frontier Park—is nothing short of magical. With warm golden light, vibrant foliage, and crisp autumn breezes, it’s the perfect backdrop for a documentary-style fall family photo session that’s both authentic and timeless. If you’re planning your family’s fall portrait session, I’ve gathered my best local insights to help you prepare, look amazing, and truly enjoy the experience.
Choose the Right Time & Location
Erie’s fall beauty peaks typically in October, when foliage shifts from bright yellows to deep oranges and rust tones. I aim for sessions around the “golden hour”—about an hour before sunset—for that dreamy, soft lighting that enhances softness and emotion.
Locations like Presque Isle beaches, Frontier Park, Erie Bluffs State Park, or Asbury Woods offer varying textures and depths. These places reflect Erie’s seasonal charm and work beautifully with my documentary-style approach—capturing candid smiles, playful interactions, and the natural connection within your family.
Wardrobe That Compliments the Season (and Your Style)
Let your family look—and feel—authentic with a thoughtfully crafted wardrobe:
Choose earthy neutrals and rich fall tones like rust, mustard, olive, and cream.
Stick to complementary palettes—not overly matching outfits—to create a harmonious visual flow.
Incorporate texture (knits, flannels, linen) to add depth and interest.
Let everyone be comfortable: flowy dresses, cozy layers, and breathable fabrics photograph best.
Plan for Candid Moments
The heart of documentary-style photography is authentic, in-the-moment emotion—laughter, hugs, whispers. To foster these:
We’ll start with some warm-up time: you’d be surprised at how a short walk can loosen everyone up.
I skip the overly staged poses while still providing you with enough direction to capture the true, emotive essence of your family and your story.
Weather-Wise Backup Plans
Erie’s fall weather can shift quickly—from bright sunshine to sudden drizzle. Here’s how to stay adaptable:
Look at the 7-day forecast and set a tentative backup date just in case.
Be ready to embrace moody skies—they often lend a dramatic and cozy feel to documentary-style photos. Some of my favorite, most fulfilling sessions have been on cloudy, dreary days.
If needed, I bring the gear (umbrellas, diffusers) to continue creatively, weather permitting.
Finally, Relax and Be Present
The best images come when clients are fully immersed in each moment. A documentary-style session isn’t about perfection—it’s about memory, emotion, and connection. Trust the process, feel the moment, and let the beauty of fall—and your family’s love—shine through authentically.
A well-planned fall family photo session is more than pictures—it’s a seasonal keepsake filled with warmth, laughter, and genuine connection. With thoughtful location choices, cozy styling, candid prompts, and flexibility, you’ll walk away with images that truly resonate and stand the test of time.
If you’re looking to plan a documentary-style fall session that feels personal and timeless, I’d love to guide you through every step. Let’s capture your family’s story—unfiltered and heartfelt—against the gorgeous backdrop of Erie’s autumn.