Autumn Family Photos in London: The Perfect Season for Memories
If your children are anything like mine, autumn means coming home with pockets full of conkers, muddy boots by the door, and knitted jumpers. It’s messy, cosy, and fleeting - and it just so happens to make the perfect backdrop for family photos.
As a lifestyle family photographer (and a mum myself), I’ve always loved this season. It’s not just the colours - it’s the feeling. Slowing down after summer, wrapping up in jumpers, crunching through leaves. And yes, it’s also one of the best times of year for family photography in London.
Here’s everything you need to know if you’re planning your own autumn family photoshoot.
🍂 When to Book: Late September to Late November
The absolute sweet spot for autumn sessions is from late September through to late November. That’s when the colours really come to life - golden, copper, rust, and deep green all mixing together.
It’s also the time when the light gets that lovely warm glow, especially in the afternoons. The sun sits lower in the sky, which means softer light (aka fewer squinty eyes) and beautiful backdrops.
And if you’re a parent worrying about bedtime, good news - golden hour is earlier in autumn! That means we can get that gorgeous evening light without keeping the little ones up past their limits.
🌳 Where to Go: The Best London Autumn Photo Locations
One of the things I love most about photographing families in London is how much variety we have - you don’t need to travel far to find the perfect autumn setting.
Local Parks & Woodlands
Don’t underestimate your own local green space! I often meet families in the parks they actually walk in every week - it makes the photos even more personal and comfortable for the children.
For a more “wild” feel, here are some favourite autumn photo spots in and around London:
Richmond Park – deer, long grasses, wide open space
Nonsuch Park – beautiful woodland and meadows
Highgate Wood – cosy, enclosed forest feel
Greenwich Park – a bit of everything: hills, trees, city views, and space to run
Perfect if your children love exploring, or if you want your photos to feel relaxed and a little wild.
Classic London Parks
These locations are great if you want that unmistakable “London” look, while still soaking up autumn colour:
Regent’s Park – tree-lined paths, flowers, and architecture
Greenwich Park – ticks both boxes: iconic London views plus autumn colour
🧡 Even London Streets Can Feel Autumnal
If you love the idea of something different, we can absolutely create an autumn vibe even in the city. Warm tones, golden light, cosy cafés, colourful leaves scattered on pavements - there’s no reason an autumn shoot has to be all fields and forests.
🧥 What to Wear for Autumn Family Photos
One of the most common questions I’m asked is: “What should we wear for our autumn photoshoot?”
Autumn is all about layers, textures, and comfort. You don’t need to buy matching outfits or overhaul your wardrobe - it’s about choosing pieces that work together and reflect your family’s style.
Here are some tried-and-tested ideas for the whole family:
For Mum
Long knit dress with a belt, paired with ankle boots
Midi skirt with a chunky jumper and tights
Neutral colours (cream, beige, camel, olive, rust) work beautifully against autumn backdrops
For Dad
Dark jeans or chinos with a henley or button-up shirt layered under a jumper
Quilted jacket or wool coat in navy, grey, or brown
Boots or smart trainers (leave the gym shoes at home!)
For Girls
Corduroy pinafore dress with tights and a cardigan
Knitted jumper dress with boots or wellies
Hair bows or headbands in autumn colours (burnt orange, mustard, burgundy)
For Boys
Checked flannel shirt layered over a plain tee
Jumper with jeans or corduroy trousers
Gilet or jacket for added warmth and texture
For Babies & Toddlers
Knitted rompers or dungarees layered with long-sleeve tops
Cosy tights, booties, or soft pram shoes
Cute beanies or bonnets for extra personality (and warmth!)
💡 Top tip: Choose earthy or muted tones that complement each other without being too “matchy-matchy.” Think warm neutrals, navy, burgundy, or mustard. Avoid big logos or overly bright neon colours, as they can distract from the natural feel of the photos.
💡 Why Autumn Sessions Feel So Special
It’s not just the colours. Autumn photos feel warm and nostalgic even while you’re taking them. You’re cuddling together to stay warm, laughing as the kids run through leaves, slowing down after a busy summer.
It’s the kind of session where no one has to sit still - we just enjoy the moment and capture your family as it really is right now.
🖼 Turning Memories Into Prints & Albums
One of the most beautiful parts of investing in family photography is knowing your images won’t just live on a screen - they’ll become part of your home and family story.
Many of my clients choose to order prints and albums after their session. Imagine walking past framed photos of your children laughing in the leaves, or sitting with them years from now, turning the pages of an album filled with these fleeting autumn moments.
Digital galleries are wonderful for sharing, but holding a photograph in your hands feels different. It’s tangible, lasting, and something your children will grow up cherishing.
The photos here are examples of families who chose to print their autumn sessions – proof that these little everyday moments deserve a permanent place in your home.
📸 Ready to Book Your Autumn Family Session?
Autumn sessions are always in high demand because the window is short - just a few weeks of peak colour and light. I only take on a handful each week so I can keep reschedule days free (because… British weather).
If you’re thinking about booking, now’s the perfect time to get in touch. Whether you’d love a wild woodland adventure, a classic London park stroll, or a cosy session at home, I’ll help you choose the spot that suits your family best.
👉 Get in touch today to check availability – and let’s capture this beautiful season while it lasts. 🍁
