Autumn Photoshoot Ideas for Kids

There’s something truly magical about autumn. The air turns crisp, the light softens, and nature bursts into rich oranges, golds, and browns. It’s the perfect time to capture children outdoors, surrounded by colour and curiosity. Whether you’re planning to take photos yourself or thinking about booking a professional shoot, here are some of my favourite autumn photoshoot ideas for kids (including a few pumpkin-inspired ones!) to help you make the most of this beautiful season.

🍁 1. Play Among the Leaves

Sometimes the simplest ideas are the most magical. Find a spot with fallen leaves and let your children throw, jump, or lie in them. Encourage them to play and explore rather than pose. Those natural giggles and movements create the most heartwarming images.

Tip: A cloudy day works beautifully here. Soft light makes the colours pop without harsh shadows.

🎃 2. Add a Pumpkin Twist

You can’t think of autumn without pumpkins, right? They’re fun, colourful, and add instant seasonal charm to your photos. You don’t need a huge patch; even a few pumpkins in the garden, on a blanket, or tucked into a crate can look gorgeous. Let your child hold one, stack them, or sit beside a big one like it’s their new friend. For little ones, mini pumpkins are great for small hands and look adorable when they’re inspecting them up close.

Style tip: Soft knitwear, muted tones, or even a simple tulle dress look lovely against the orange of pumpkins.

🌾 3. Dress for Cosy, Natural Style

The best autumn photos always look effortless. Choose neutral or earthy colours that blend with nature. Creams, browns, rust, and olive greens work beautifully. Layers like cardigans, scarves, and hats not only keep kids warm but also add texture to your images.

Avoid bright logos or neon colours; the focus should stay on your child and those lovely autumn tones.

🌤 4. Use the Light to Your Advantage

Autumn light is soft and golden, especially an hour before sunset (the “golden hour”). It gives everything that warm glow we all love. If you’re taking photos at home, position your child so the sun is behind them and let the light filter through their hair or leaves. It creates that dreamy, glowing look that feels like a storybook moment.

🧡 5. Capture the Little Details

Don’t forget the tiny things. Hands clutching leaves, muddy boots, rosy cheeks, or the moment your child pauses to pick up a conker. Those details tell the story of childhood just as much as the big smiles. Zoom in, get low, and experiment with different angles. Sometimes the magic is in the in-between moments.

🍂 6. Make It an Experience

The best photos come when kids are genuinely having fun. Turn your photoshoot into a little adventure. Go for a walk, explore a park, or visit a pumpkin patch together. When children are relaxed and enjoying themselves, that’s when you capture the genuine laughter, connection, and personality that make your photos truly special.

🍁 Embrace the Season with Family

If you’ve been thinking about getting your family photos done, autumn is a wonderful time for it. My autumn photoshoots in Warwickshire are all about warmth, nature, and connection—the kind of images that feel like memories. We can include pumpkins, fallen leaves, or your child’s favourite seasonal things. Each session is completely personal to your family.

Click here to get in touch and find out more about autumn sessions.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Autumn passes so quickly, but it’s full of little moments that deserve to be remembered. Whether you’re photographing your children yourself or joining me for a session, I hope these ideas inspire you to slow down, play, and capture the season’s magic while it lasts. These aren’t just photos; they’re pieces of your story.