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Fall Family Photos in Indianapolis: Why October & November Are Perfect

Poole family smiling together during fall session at West Park in Carmel

When families ask us about the best time of year for portraits, our answer is almost always the same: fall. October and November bring cooler weather, golden light, and gorgeous backdrops that make your photos timeless. For the Poole family, who we’ve had the joy of photographing for over seven years, fall has become their go-to season for family photos—and it’s easy to see why.

The Poole Family’s Fall Tradition


Coordinated family outfits for fall family photos Carmel IN

Every year, the Poole family trusts us with capturing their family memories. In just 30–60 minutes each year, we’ve watched their kids grow up, gain confidence in front of the camera, and become more comfortable with us as their photographer. That trust is what makes the difference—when you return to the same photographer year after year, your kids know what to expect, the session flows more naturally, and the photos tell a bigger story over time.


Kids laughing during fall family photo session in Indianapolis

This year’s session took place at West Park in Carmel, one of our favorite spots for fall family photos. The Poole family coordinated their outfits beautifully, the kids listened and engaged so well, and the result was a gallery filled with natural smiles, laughter, and love.

Why Fall Is the Perfect Season for Family Photos


Parents walking hand-in-hand with kids at West Park Carmel

Fall family photos in Indianapolis aren’t just about pretty leaves—they’re the perfect mix of light, comfort, and atmosphere:


  • Golden Hour Glow: The hour before sunset creates dreamy, golden light that flatters every skin tone.

  • Comfortable Weather: Cool but not cold—ideal for cozy outfits and keeping kids comfortable.

  • Colors & Textures: From pumpkin patches to golden fields, fall backdrops add warmth and vibrancy to every image.


Family portraits with warm autumn colors in Indianapolis

The only challenge? Timing. Fall colors in Indiana can be unpredictable, and once the weather shifts, it shifts quickly. Add in Daylight Savings in early November, and your available time for outdoor sessions shortens dramatically. That’s why we recommend booking your session as soon as possible—waiting until “peak color” can mean missing out altogether.

Best Locations for Fall Family Photos in Indianapolis and Beyond


Parents hugging kids during candid fall photo moment

Choosing the right backdrop sets the tone for your photos. Here are some of our favorite Indianapolis-area fall locations:


  • West Park (Carmel) – Open fields, trails, and tree-lined paths perfect for variety.

  • Flat Fork Creek Park (Fishers) – Beautiful trails, bridges, and wooded scenery.

  • Tuttle Orchards (Greenfield) – Our fall mini sessions here are always a hit. The orchard rows and pumpkin patches are kid favorites.

  • White River State Park Canal (Downtown Indy) – Perfect for families who want city energy mixed with natural fall beauty.

  • Fall Family Photos in Fishers, McCordsville, and Geist – We also love sessions in Geist, Zionsville, McCordsville, Lawrence, Pendleton, Fortville, and Noblesville for a personal touch that feels close to home.

What to Wear for Your Fall Photos



Coordinating outfits can feel stressful, but the secret is simple:


  • Match tones, not exact colors – Think burgundy with blush, navy with cream, olive with mustard.

  • Keep patterns minimal – Small plaids, subtle florals, and cozy textures (knits, corduroy, flannel) work beautifully.

  • Avoid large logos or text – Clean, classic looks photograph best.

  • Layer up – Cardigans, scarves, and boots add both style and comfort for the cooler temps.

West Park fall family photo with golden fields in background

The Poole family has mastered this year after year, and it shows—cohesive outfits elevate the photos and keep the focus on the people.

How Much Does a Fall Family Photo Session Cost?


Children sharing a laugh during autumn family portraits in Indianapolis

Our 30-minute family sessions are $350 and include:


  • 60+ professionally edited images

  • Full-color and black-and-white versions

  • A session experience that’s fun, relaxed, and efficient


For many families, it’s the perfect balance of time and investment—long enough to capture a variety of looks and moments, short enough to keep kids engaged.

Ready to Book Your Fall Family Photos?


Family portraits at West Park in Carmel with golden autumn fields behind them

Fall is the most popular time of year for family sessions, and our October and November spots fill up quickly. If you’ve been thinking about scheduling your own session, now’s the time.



Don’t wait for “perfect color”—the perfect session is the one that happens, and we’d love to create those memories for your family.

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