5 Simple Steps for Capturing Stunning Fall Wedding Photos

Planning a fall wedding embraces so many stunning aesthetics, from changing leaves to cooler temperatures and unique earthy motifs. What's more, this time of year allows couples to highlight bold colors and deep hues (bringing emotion and depth into any celebration), which further explains why it's one of the most popular times to tie the knot.

So, given all of the magic autumn brings, nuptials held in late September through November definitely make for some of the most amazing wedding photos out there. But before you completely dive into figuring out how you're going to pose, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind to really get a standout shot on the big day.

For the best plan of action, we asked wedding photographers Miguel Cornelio and Meaghan Bickel to share their advice on capturing fall wedding pictures you'll love for a lifetime. Real all their secrets below!

Have a Strategic Schedule

Making a solid plan for your shot list will be a total game-changer on the big day. More specifically, ensuring you have a photo schedule that breaks down the exact timing of where everyone needs to be will allow you to get the best shot and lighting, while also giving you peace of mind. Pro tip: “Since the days are shorter in the fall months and the sun sets quickly, I always highly recommend doing a first look earlier in the day to allow more time to do couples photos, family portraits, and bridal party portraits before the ceremony,” shares Cornelio.

Keep the Weather in Mind

The beauty and the curse of fall weddings are that you’ll never know what’s going to happen with the weather. You could have a stunning, sunny day, or you could end up with rain (which is good luck in some cultures). “For many weddings, fall means rain. Don’t freak out if the weather changes. Try to embrace the rain,” says Bickel. “The good news is that clouds and overcast weather can still make for great shots. And if it’s partly cloudy, it’s even better.”

If the weather is truly awful, though, keep in mind that you do have other options. “Consider a bridal portrait session a few days later when the weather is better,” advises Bickel. “It’s another chance to get beautiful in your dress without any time constraints. You’ll have all the time and freedom in the world to get the shots you want.”

Take Advantage of the Fall Colors

Use the gorgeous colors that come with fall—the reds and oranges and golds—and play with them in your photos, even if they’re not part of your color palette. “Definitely take advantage of the fall colors, if you have them," says Bickel. "If you’re getting married at a venue that doesn’t have foliage, try to build in a quick trip to a natural setting for your portraits. But be sure to be mindful of parking, walking time, and driving time when you’re working it into your timeline for the day.”

Keep Warm During Your Photo Session

The last thing you want is to look back on your fall wedding pictures and realize you look like you’re freezing rather than striking a natural pose. Thus, be sure to plan around the potential for being cold. “Fall weather can be perfect, but it can also be weird, as it’s cold in the morning, roasting in the afternoon, and freezing at night,” says Bickel.

The photographer also adds, “If you don’t have a long-sleeve dress or a pretty shawl in a fall color, at the very least, put a jacket on between shots so you’re not freezing the entire time. If your shoulders are up by your ears or your hands are in a fist during a photo, it will be a dead giveaway that you’re freezing and faking it.”

Remember the Small Details

Remember all the work that went into planning every small detail, and make sure to capture close-up shots of your favorites (like the invitations!). “Everybody loves the beautiful detail shots,” says Bickel. “Consider using fall leaves on the tablescape, wheat in your bouquet, sunflowers, twigs, or different kinds of pumpkins, etc. in your decorations. Fall colors like burgundy, burnt orange, mustard yellow, chocolate brown, and dark green all photograph really well!"