Fall Color Palettes for Stunning Photos 🍂✨

One of my favorite parts of fall sessions is helping families and seniors pick outfits that shine against our golden New Mexico skies. The right color palette not only makes your photos look cohesive, it also helps my bold, vibrant editing style really pop. Here are some of my favorite tones and textures to consider when planning your fall session.

Earthy + Jewel Tones

Fall is the perfect time to lean into deep, rich colors that complement the season:

• Sage or olive green

• Sienna brown

• Gray and blue-gray

• Navy

• Terracotta

• Marigold or mustard

• Burgundy and deep wine shades

Adding a splash of black works beautifully with my editing style—it grounds the colors and makes the bold tones stand out even more.

Deep + Bold Shades

Shades of burgundy, orange, marigold, and red look amazing in the fall. Muted versions of these colors photograph best, especially when using orange and red, since overly bright versions can reflect onto skin.

✨ Styling tip: If you love color but don’t want it to overwhelm your look, try working it in through small details—like a scarf, hat, belt, or jewelry—or even a subtle floral print. This keeps the overall vibe seasonal while still highlighting your personality.

Fall-Inspired Pastels

Yes, pastels can work in fall! Dusty shades of rose, mauve, blush, violet, or muted peach can soften your portraits while still feeling timeless. These tones pair beautifully with denim and neutrals for a casual look, but can also elevate your session if you want something polished yet understated.

Muted blues and greens also fall into this category and look gorgeous for couples and families who want a lighter, airy feel without losing that autumn mood.

Patterns + Textures (Less Is More)

Patterns can absolutely add interest, but they’re best used sparingly. Try incorporating just one pattern into the group—like a small floral, subtle plaid, or a textured knit—and let the rest of the outfits be solid colors that complement each other.

Here are a few textures and seasonal patterns that photograph beautifully in fall and winter:

• Flannel or plaid (in muted tones)

• Corduroy or crushed velvet

• Tweed or houndstooth

• Cozy knits, sweaters, or cardigans

• Color-blocking accents

Think of these as accents, not the star of the show. One well-chosen print or textured piece can tie the whole family together without feeling too busy.

🍂 Putting It All Together

The biggest thing to remember? Coordination over matching. Stick with a cohesive palette, mix in textures, and let each person’s outfit complement the others. My editing style thrives with bold, deep colors and dramatic skies, so earthy tones, jewel shades, and muted fall hues will always look incredible in your final gallery.