Fall Family Photos in Boise: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re planning fall family photos in Boise this year, here’s what you need to know about timing, locations, outfits, light, and making the experience easy with kids.
When Is the Best Time for Fall Family Photos in Boise?
September:
πΏ More green + hints of fall. I like September for fall photos because the weather is still warmish! If you have small kids I recommend prioritising warmer weather rather than fall colors!
October:
π Golden/yellow foliage begins.
Late Octoberβearly November:
π Deeper color + fallen leaves but weather starts to get cold and tricky.
What Makes a Great Fall Family Photo Location?
These are my non negotiables for fall mini session locations! I am super picky. Texture, color, light, playfulness, not crowded, easily accessible. That’s it.
Location #1 β River Location
This spot is just past Horseshoe Bend and takes a little additional drive to reach (typically less than an hour). I have this currently as a weekday to account for busyness during the fall. Photos will be taken on the beach area near the water. This area has more of an evergreen tree look and lends itself very well for fall colors.
What to expect: Very “outdoorsy” and Idaho backdrop. Sand and water (important to know in case you have kids that can’t help but jump in).
Location #2 β Greenbelt
This will be my second year using this location because I loved it so much last year! These are all the things I look for for a great fall mini location!
- Texture! I love longer grass, layers of trees, and variety of color for a beautiful backdrop for fall mini sessions.
- Room to play: I try to incorporate a little bit of play even in mini sessions for a more relaxed family session experience.
- Color: Here’s the thing about fall color in Boise, Idaho. We don’t get a ton of color change and it can be finicky to schedule around. I prefer to find a little color and then encourage styling to reflect a more fall palette.
- Accessibility: I love that this location is really easy to get to from anywhere in Boise and doesn’t require more than a short walk on a paved path.
What Should We Wear for Fall Family Photos in Boise?
This is a number one concern for many when scheduling family photos and it doesn’t have to be so complicated! I am going to walk you through my process when I consult with families!
- Mom pick an outfit she loves and feels good in. No photos will get printed if mom doesn’t feel great in what she is wearing.
- Choose color palette from what mom wears. You can go with neutrals or a more colorful combo. Both work great!
- Another thing to keep in mind with colors is the color scheme in your home. Are you planning to hang photos in your living room? If so, what colors will look best with your paint and upholstery colors?
- Things that photograph well: texture, layers, pattern, visual interest with accessories.
I love to help with all of this so please reach out after booking! I also have a client closet that is available to borrow from.
What If My Kids Don’t Cooperate?
Good news! That means they are normal! I never expect perfect behavior during family sessions. After 12+ years I have seen EVERYTHING (ask me in person about the kid that dropped pants and peed without breaking eye contact) π.
Couple of things to note. If your kid is more susceptible to being shy or takes longer to open up, I would think about a half or full session instead. 15 minutes is just enough time to get several different poses and not as much time for me to win them over. Feel free to chat with me if you’re unsure!
What Happens During a Boise Fall Family Session?
1. We start easy.
Everyone gets comfortable, I chat with your kiddos to get them to relax a little.
2. We get the βeveryone lookingβ photo.
You knowβthe Christmas-card-worthy one that grandma wants on her fridge.
3. We move.
Walking, running, playing, snuggling, I get everyone to move a little bit.
4. We let the kids be kids.
I try my best to get some personality photographed!
5. We finish with the good stuff.
When we have enough time I will get some more candid and relaxed moments you won’t help but HAVE to print for your walls.
Should I book a mini session or full session for fall photos?
This is a great question to ask yourself each year! I hope some of this helps!
| Mini Session | Full Session | |
|---|---|---|
| I just need a Christmas card photo | β β β | β |
| I want some variety in my photos | β | β β β |
| My kid is super shy | β β β | |
| I would like 50+ photos to choose from | β | β β β |
| I want to have a say in time and place | β β β | |
| I am on a budget | β β β |
What Happens If the Weather Is Bad?
I will always try my best to keep an eye on weather and communicate to everyone if there needs to be a change in date. Our weather is so good in the fall I rarely need to do that! Overcast and cloudy is actually best for mini sessions.
Ready for Fall Family Photos in Boise?
| River | Greenbelt | |
|---|---|---|
| Overall vibe | βββββ | ββββ |
| Best for | Open to a drive, can handle being near water, looking for a little extra | Everyone! |
| Fall color | ππππ | πππ |
| Kid-friendly | ββββ | βββββ |
| Walking required | Park on side of the road and small walk | Short on paved path |
| Best part | View | Accessible |
Still not sure? Don’t worry, this is exactly what I’m here for! Always feel free to reach out to chat about what makes the most sense for your family.
