Capturing Colorful Fall Memories with Your Kids

WRITTEN BY SHANNON BEVER PHOTOS SHANNON CONRAD PHOTOGRAPHY

Fall is a photographer’s dream season. The vibrant colors, cozy sweaters and apple- or pumpkin-flavored treats create a perfect backdrop for memorable family photos. As a parent and photographer, I find that capturing these moments with your kids not only freezes time but also deepens your bond with them. Here are some tips to help you create stunning fall photos and magical memories with your children.

Choosing the Right Location

1. Local Parks: Parks are a go-to for stunning fall foliage. In Bozeman, Bogert and Lindley parks offer picturesque spots, while in Helena, Spring Meadow, the fairgrounds and Mt. Helena are excellent choices. Don’t hesitate to call your local parks and recreation office for recommendations specific to your area.

2. Arboretums and Botanical Gardens: These curated landscapes are perfect for fall photos. The Tizer Gardens in Clancy and the Butterfly House in Missoula are particularly beautiful. The mix of fall colors and curated plant life create a stunning backdrop for your family photos.

3. Your Own Backyard: If your backyard is blessed with colorful trees or a breathtaking view of Montana’s Big Sky, take advantage of it. Sometimes, a neighbor with a cool old truck might even let you set up a cozy photo scene with blankets and pillows in the truck bed. This adds a personal touch to your photos.

4. Pumpkin Patches and Corn Mazes: These spots are not only fun for the kids but also great for capturing their joy and excitement. The vibrant orange of pumpkins against the fall foliage creates a festive atmosphere perfect for photos. My favorite spot is Edgewater Farms in Townsend.

Planning Your Photo Shoot

1. Timing is Key: The best light for fall photos is typically in the morning or late afternoon when the sun is low and soft. Golden hour, just before sunset, is ideal for a warm, glowing light, though it might be a bit late for very young children. Overcast days can also provide soft, diffused lighting that’s great for photography.

2. Dress for the Occasion: Choose clothing in warm tones like browns, oranges and reds to complement the fall colors. A mustard yellow can also work beautifully. Layering clothes adds texture and interest to your photos, and keeps everyone cozy.

3. Bring Props: Props like leaves, pumpkins, blankets, apples or hay bales can add a creative touch to your photos. They provide children with something to interact with, making the photos more natural and lively.

Composition Tips

1. Get Down to Their Level: Capturing photos from your child’s perspective gives the images a unique and personal feel. It also allows you to see the world through their eyes, making the pictures more intimate.

2. Use Leading Lines: Natural lines like paths, tree branches or even rows of pumpkins can guide the viewer’s eye toward your child, creating a dynamic composition. Don’t be afraid to place your subject offcenter for a more interesting shot.

3. Play with Depth of Field: A shallow depth of field, achieved with a wide aperture, blurs the background and keeps the focus on your child. If this sounds too technical, don’t worry—just focus on capturing the moment with the camera you have.

Capturing the Moment

1. Be Patient: Kids can be unpredictable, so patience is key. Set a higher shutter speed to freeze the action since children are often fast and wiggly. Be ready to capture the perfect shot when the moment arises, but don’t wait so long that the magic slips away.

2. Give Them a Task: Children often respond well when given something to do. Ask them to strike a “hero pose,” spin around and freeze or throw leaves into the air. Avoid saying “cheese” or asking them to smile, as this often results in forced expressions. Instead, aim to make them laugh for a genuine, joyful photo.

3. Have Fun: The most important part of any photo shoot is enjoying the time with your children. Make it a fun and relaxed experience, and the genuine moments will naturally follow. These are the memories you’ll cherish for years to come.

By following these tips, you can create beautiful fall photos that capture the essence of the season and the joy of your family. These images will serve as a lasting reminder of the colorful moments shared with your children.