From Crunchy Leaves to Fairy Lights: A Radiant Guide to Capturing Unforgettable Family Moments Through Autumnal Family Photography

There’s something about this time of year that feels like a quiet exhale. The air sharpens, the evenings draw in, and suddenly the light has that syrupy, golden quality that makes everything, from the dog’s fur to the children’s hair seem touched by magic.

Autumn isn’t just a shift in the weather; it’s a shift in pace. It’s the world’s gentle reminder to slow down, breathe deeply, and start a new chapter.

For many families, this season marks new milestones; perhaps your child is stepping into their first year of school, tiny shoes by the door, jumpers slightly too big, nerves wrapped up in shy smiles or maybe they’re in their final year of primary school, walking through those gates for the last time before moving on to something bigger.

Either way, they are the oldest they’ve ever been… and the youngest they’ll ever be again! And as every parent knows, those moments don’t stand still for long.

As a Family Photographer, I find this one of the most incredible times of year; this is where your camera becomes more than a device. In autumn, photography becomes a kind of mindfulness, it slows us, grounds us and helps us to notice the way light curls around a strand of hair, how small hands still tuck into ours, how laughter feels like sunshine even on a cold day.

I implore you to give some of the following a try to hold on to these precious times, as non of us know when the last time is; the last time they hold our hands; want you to read to them to bed; talk openly whilst doing the dishes; tell you about their day etc… These times need to be cherished (and documented for you for later in life);

1. Follow the Light

Autumn light truly is a gift, soft, low and golden.
The best time to shoot is the “golden hour,” just after sunrise or just before sunset. Position the sun behind your family for a beautiful halo effect and to avoid squinting.

If it’s cloudy (which is very likely), embrace it. Overcast skies become nature’s softbox, wrapping your portraits in flattering, even light.

Pro tip: Turn off your flash outdoors. Natural light always wins.

2. Embrace the Colours and Textures

Autumn practically styles itself.
Deep reds, olive greens, mustard yellows, cosy knits and crunchy leaves.
Mother Nature creates the perfect palette!

Don’t worry about matching outfits, think in tones: warm, earthy, layered. Encourage your children to collect leaves, run, jump and simply be. Capture the in-between moments: the mid-laughs, the quick glances, the genuine connection.

Because when you look back, these photos won’t just show how they looked, they’ll show who they were.

3. Move Indoors as the Days Shorten

As winter approaches, life naturally shifts indoors. These cosy, chaotic moments are often the ones we treasure most.

Think biscuit baking, twinkly lights, pyjamas at 4pm.
Natural light still matters inside, shoot by windows and turn off overhead lights for softer tones. When the light fades, lean into the mood: fairy lights, lamps and candles can all create a beautiful glow.

Pro tip: Think in stories, not single shots. Capture the mixing, the mess, the laughter, not just the final photo.

4. Welcome the Christmas Transition

When fairy lights appear and the festive rush begins, try not to chase “perfect.”
The magic is in the in-between; the flour-dusted noses, the half-decorated tree, the giggles.

Try a simple tradition, one photo a day until Christmas Eve. It doesn’t need to be fancy, just real. By the end, you’ll have a visual diary of your family’s autumn-to-winter story.

5. The Season of Change and the Gift of Time

Perhaps this is why autumn pulls at our heartstrings. It’s not just the leaves that change, it’s our children, our routines, our sense of who we are as a family.

One year they’re jumping into leaf piles with tiny wellies. The next, they pretend they’re too old for it… but still do it anyway.

Photographs help us hold on to that rhythm, the way childhood unfolds, year after year. Each frame becomes a love letter to right now.

And maybe that’s the quiet magic of capturing your family in autumn. It’s not about perfection; it’s about witnessing the passage of time. The oldest and youngest they’ll ever be. The beauty in between.

So this year, as the last leaves fall and the first fairy lights glow, take your time.
Step into the light.
Gather your people.
Press the shutter.

Not to capture perfection — but to honour this moment, this season, this chapter you’ll one day look back on with a full heart and misty eyes.

As always, I am here, on hand to help, should you wish to gather your family for giving the gift of time together. What Christmas is all about!
You can contact me on: rachelmullinsphotography@gmail.com for more information about Family vouchers this Christmas.

With love

Rachel x