by Dana Reinke Photography | Lansing, Michigan Family Photographer

Fall in Michigan is something truly special. Golden light, crisp evenings, changing leaves, and that cozy feeling in the air—it’s one of my favorite seasons to photograph families. One of the most common questions I get before every session is:


“What should we wear?”


The good news? Fall styling doesn’t have to be complicated. When thoughtfully chosen, your outfits can complement the season while keeping the focus exactly where it belongs—on the connection between you and your family. Think warm neutrals, soft textures, earthy tones, and layers that add dimension without feeling overly coordinated. The goal is a wardrobe that feels comfortable, timeless, and beautifully connected to the colors and light of Michigan in the fall.


Below is my go-to guide for styling your family, maternity, or newborn session this fall.


view my entire Pinterest Fall Outfit Inspo board here!

fall Color Palettes That Photograph Beautifully


Fall sessions pop when colors feel soft and cohesive rather than overly dark or dominant.

Fall family photo session style guide featuring neutral beige and tan coordinated outfits for mom, dad, and two children.
Family photo outfit inspiration in chestnut brown, cream, beige, and dusty blue grey featuring coordinated looks for mom, dad, and toddler.
Family photo outfit guide in soft sage, warm ivory, muted taupe, and natural earth tones for coordinated looks.
Family photo outfit coordination guide featuring charcoal taupe, warm beige, dusty blue, and soft oatmeal color palette.
Warm ivory, beige, soft sage, and deep olive family outfit coordination guide featuring maxi dress, plaid shirt, floral top, and pants.
Family coordinated outfits in mushroom taupe, dusty rose, soft stone, and warm ivory tones for photo sessions.
Family photo outfit coordination in mushroom taupe, soft beige, dusty blue, and warm ivory tones featuring linen and knit pieces.
Family photo outfit coordination guide featuring deep charcoal, dusty blue, warm ivory, and muted terracotta color palette.
A flat lay of neutral-toned props including a knit blanket, wicker bag, toy plane, alphabet blocks, adventure book set, and wide-brim hat.
additional style guidance


Think soft, natural, and timeless. For fall sessions, I love a palette of muted sage, warm ivory, taupe, and other earthy neutrals. These tones photograph beautifully against Michigan’s changing leaves without competing with the natural surroundings.


Choose soft textures, relaxed layers, and natural fabrics like linen, cotton, knits, and corduroy. Rather than everyone matching, aim for outfits that feel coordinated through color and texture. A mix of creamy neutrals, muted greens, warm browns, and subtle patterns creates a beautifully cohesive gallery that still feels effortless and authentic.


The goal: cozy, understated, and connected—not overly “fall.”