Bay Area Fall Family Photography: Your Ultimate Guide to Planning Easygoing Family Photos

Fall family photos in the Bay Area are hands down one of my favorite times to reflect on your family’s growth. Cozy sweaters, golden leaves, and that crisp autumn air create the perfect backdrop for your evolving story. But let’s be real: Bay Area locals know timing is everything when planning fall family photos around Marin County or the East Bay. So what is the best time for fall family photos? Whether you’re dreaming of Thanksgiving vibes or Christmas cheer, I’m here to help you get those holiday cards ordered with zero stress.

1. Timing is Everything!

First, let’s talk dates. If you want to send out Thanksgiving cards—and I highly recommend it—aim to book your fall family mini sessions in September or early October. This timeline gives you plenty of time to receive your photos, choose your favorites, and design the perfect card without rushing. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when your to-do list starts growing longer than a grocery list at Trader Joe’s!

Now, if Christmas cards are more your jam, you still have some flexibility. However, I suggest scheduling your session in October or November. Once December hits, you’ll be wrapped up in holiday prep, school events, and life in general. By booking in the fall, you’re giving yourself extra breathing room to enjoy the season.

2. How to style your family for Bay Area fall photoshoots: Keep It Comfortable, Keep It You

Take the guess work out of what to wear to your family photoshoot. When planning fall family photos, layers are your best friend. What are the best colors to wear for family photos? Choose rich, earthy tones like burgundy, mustard, navy, or a bold pop of emerald. These colors complement the autumn scenery beautifully.

The key here is to coordinate, not match. I recommend starting with mom’s outfit—maybe a cozy green sweater and jeans. From there, you can build the rest of the family’s look. Dad could wear a classic white button-down with dark jeans. The kids can add a fun, bold color or a neutral tone that fits the palette. The result? A cohesive look that still feels personal.

One tip I always give families is to bring layers. A scarf, a knit blanket, or a jacket adds texture and variety to your photos while keeping everyone comfortable. Plus, layers give you the flexibility to switch up your look without needing a full wardrobe change. And let’s be real—Bay Area weather can be unpredictable, so having a few extra options can save the day if things turn chilly or the sun shines a little too brightly.

3. The Best East Bay Locations for your fall photoshoot

Fall is the best time to get creative with location choices. The East Bay is full of stunning spots for family photography. Whether it’s a golden-hued field, a rustic barn, or a pumpkin patch for seasonal flair, the possibilities are endless. You might even choose somewhere personal, like the backyard where you spend your weekends or a nearby forest you love to explore. Whatever feels like you!

Here are a few fantastic locations for fall family photos:

• Smith Family Farm
  Address: 4430 Sellers Ave, Brentwood, CA 94513
  Open: Mid-September to October 31st, from 9 AM – 5 PM
  This pumpkin patch features hayrides, corn mazes, and endless pumpkins that make great backdrops. The golden fields surrounding the farm look amazing in soft fall light.
• Joan’s Farm & Pumpkin Patch
  Address: 4351 Mines Rd, Livermore, CA 94550
  Open: October 1st to October 31st, daily from 9 AM – 6 PM
  With rustic barns, vintage tractors, and open fields, Joan’s Farm offers a touch of country charm perfect for fall family photos.
• Moore’s Pumpkin Patch and Christmas Trees
  Address: 2780 Castro Valley Blvd, Castro Valley, CA 94546
  Pumpkin Patch Open: Mid-September to October 31st, daily from 9 AM – 8 PM
  Christmas Trees Open: Late November to December 24th
  Moore’s transforms from a festive pumpkin patch into a Christmas tree farm, offering the best of both worlds for your holiday card photos.
• Alameda Point Pumpkin Patch & Christmas Trees
  Address: 2453 Hancock St, Alameda, CA 94501
  Pumpkin Patch Open: Mid-September to October 31st, daily from 10 AM – 9 PM
  Christmas Trees Open: Late November to December 24th
  This location offers sweeping views of the Bay with festive pumpkins, and rows of Christmas trees bring holiday vibes to your photos.

These locations add a seasonal touch that makes your fall family photos stand out. Plus, they’re packed with fun activities for the kids, so it’s a win-win!

4. Be Realistic with the Kids

Finally, let’s talk about kids. We all know they have their own schedules, moods, and sometimes they’re just not feeling the whole “smile for the camera” vibe. But that’s totally okay! As a Bay Area fall family photography pro who’s seen it all, I have a few tips and tricks to keep everyone relaxed and having fun.

Whether it’s a quick game of tag, a tickle fight, or making goofy faces, I create an atmosphere where your little ones can feel comfortable and be themselves. Some of the best Bay Area fall family photography comes from these unscripted moments, like catching your child mid-giggle or wrapping them in a big hug.

If your toddler isn’t sitting still or your little one is having an off day, don’t sweat it! Capturing great child photography is all about going with the flow. We can mix posed shots with candid, playful moments—trust me, those in-between shots where you’re laughing, playing, or just being yourselves often become family favorites.

Ultimately, the goal is for you all to enjoy your time together. By embracing the spontaneity of family photography, we’ll create lasting moments that reflect your family’s growth over the years. I am excited for you to get in contact with me for your next family photoshoot!