As the leaves change and the air cools, fall becomes the perfect time to capture your family’s special moments. With Gainesville’s picturesque parks and surrounding natural beauty, autumn offers endless opportunities for creating lasting memories. At Chris Watkins Photography LLC, we specialize in crafting personalized, timeless family portraits that highlight the beauty of the season—and the unique bond of your family.


Here are a few tips to help you plan your fall family photo session and ensure you get the perfect shots:


A family poses for fall family photos in the Town of Tioga in Gainesville, Fl.

Choosing the Right Location


Gainesville’s fall scenery provides the ideal backdrop for family photos. Whether you're looking for a peaceful park, a rustic outdoor location, or even a charming downtown setting, we can help you choose the perfect spot.


  • Natural settings: Consider spots like Paynes Prairie Preserve or Kanapaha Botanical Gardens for a mix of fall foliage and open space.
  • Urban settings: Downtown Gainesville, the Historic Thomas Center and downtown Miccanopy all offer great options with historic architecture, vibrant murals, and autumnal decorations.


When choosing a location, consider what best represents your family and complements the seasonal colors.


Coordinating Outfits for a Timeless Look


Your choice of clothing can elevate your fall family photos. Opt for colors that complement the natural tones of the season—think deep reds, mustard yellows, and rich browns.


  • Stick to a cohesive color palette: Try to coordinate outfits without matching too much. Earth tones, soft neutrals, and textured fabrics like flannel and knits work well together.
  • Layer for versatility: Fall weather in Gainesville can fluctuate, so light sweaters, scarves, and jackets not only keep you comfortable but also add depth to your photos.
  • Avoid trends: Focus on classic styles that will age well in photos and keep your family looking polished for years to come.

Incorporating Seasonal Props


Fall offers plenty of opportunities to add seasonal touches to your photos. If you're looking to enhance your session with props, we can provide creative ideas and inspiration.


  • Natural props: Use seasonal items like pumpkins, hay bales, or a plaid blanket for a cozy fall feel.
  • Personal touches: Bring along a favorite family book or family heirloom to add emotional depth to the photos. For hobbyists, incorporating items like musical instruments, gardening tools, or sports equipment can show off what your family loves to do together.


The key is to let the props complement, not overshadow, the love and connection between your family members.

A couple poses for a family portrait against a whitewashed brick wall in Miccanopy. Fl.

Don’t Forget Your Furry Family Members!


Pets are a big part of many families, so don’t hesitate to include them in your fall photo session. Whether it’s a dog, cat, or even a more unconventional pet, they bring joy and spontaneity to the moment:

  • Pets: Including the family dog, cat, or even a more unconventional pet can bring out playful, candid moments. It also adds a personal touch that reflects how your family connects with your furry friends.
  • How to incorporate them: Pets can be part of both posed and candid shots, whether they’re sitting with the family, playing in the leaves, or cuddling up for a cozy fall scene. Plus, their natural energy often leads to some of the most heartwarming moments.

Including your pets adds an extra layer of personality to your photos and showcases the bond between all family members—human and animal alike.




A young couple poses for a family portrait with their dog outside of the Historic Thomas Center in Gainesville, Fl.
Vegan blogger Michelle Blackwood poses for a fall family portrait against a wall of greenery in Gainesville, Fl.
A portrait of vegan blogger, Michelle Blackwood in the Haile Village Center in Gainesville, Fl.
Vegan blogger, Michelle Blackwood and her husband during a fall family portrait session at the Haile Village Center.

Scheduling for the Best Light


One of the most critical aspects of a successful photo session is timing. The soft, golden light during the early morning or late afternoon, known as the “golden hour,” is ideal for creating flattering, naturally lit photos.


  • Golden hour magic: In Gainesville, the golden hour can make the fall colors pop and give your portraits a warm, inviting glow.
  • Weather considerations: Fall weather can be unpredictable, but cloudy days can provide even, soft light that eliminates harsh shadows.


At Chris Watkins Photography, we’ll help you find the perfect time to shoot, ensuring your family looks its best in every photo.


Making the Experience Fun for Kids


Capturing authentic smiles and moments with children can sometimes be a challenge, but with a little planning, it can be a fun and enjoyable experience.


  • Keep it playful: During the session, we encourage kids to be themselves and engage in fun activities to keep them entertained.
  • Be patient: We’re experienced in working with families and can take breaks when needed, ensuring everyone stays relaxed and happy.


Bringing snacks or favorite toys can also help keep young children engaged throughout the session.


Posed vs. Candid Shots: Capturing the Best of Both


The best family photos balance beautifully posed shots with spontaneous, candid moments. While posed photos are great for formal portraits, candid shots can capture your family’s unique interactions.


  • Posed photos: These shots ensure everyone is together, looking their best for a classic family portrait.
  • Candid moments: Playful interactions, laughter, and natural expressions create authentic photos that reflect your family’s true dynamic. These often create the most powerful and memorable images that you will cherish for a lifetime.


Our approach at Chris Watkins Photography is to capture both posed and candid moments, so you leave with a well-rounded collection of images.

A father poses with his teenage daughter during a fall family portrait session in Gainesville, Fl.

Hiring the Right Photographer


When planning your fall family photos, hiring the right photographer is key. You want someone who knows how to work with children, understands lighting, and deliver quality results.


At Chris Watkins Photography, we have extensive experience working with families in Gainesville and surrounding areas. We offer a relaxed, professional experience, ensuring your session is both enjoyable and productive.


Book Your Fall Family Photo Session Today


Fall is a busy season for family photos, so be sure to book your session early. Whether you’re looking for a location in Gainesville or somewhere in the nearby area, Chris Watkins Photography LLC will work with you to capture beautiful, lasting memories.


To schedule your session, contact us today and let us help you plan the perfect fall family photo experience.