📸 London Photoshoots in Autumn / Fall. What to wear for a Solo, Family or Group Photoshoot?
There’s something utterly enchanting about London in autumn. The way the golden leaves drift through the air, that soft slant of light in early morning or late afternoon, the crispness that reminds you winter is coming—but not yet. If you've ever thought of having your photos taken amongst the russet, gold and moody skies, now is one of the best times of year.
Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of an autumn photoshoot in London: when to do it, how to dress, and how to prepare for autumn’s delightful unpredictability.
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What to Expect: Autumn Weather & Light in London 🌤️
Before you decide on outfits, knowing what the weather and light are like this season helps enormously.
Temperature ranges: During autumn (especially September–November), daytime highs tend to range from around 15-20 °C in early autumn, falling to low teens (often ~10-14 °C) as the season progresses. Night and early morning lows can drop to 7-10 °C (or lower) depending on wind, moisture, and cloud cover.
Rain and damp conditions: Autumn is one of London’s rainier seasons. Showers are frequent. Skies can go from bright to grey quickly. The ground (on paths, pavements, parks) may be wet, muddy or slippery especially after rain.
Wind and cloud: Expect wind, especially in open areas, along the Thames, parks, or hill-tops. Cloud cover can vary, which affects light – soft diffused light on overcast days can be very flattering; bright sunshine may bring harsh shadows.
Daylight hours: As autumn advances, daylight hours shorten. Golden hours (short periods around sunrise and sunset with warm light) become more precious and happen earlier/sooner.
Because of all this, planning and flexibility are key. Bringing along coordinating umbrellas or light jackets can be both practical and stylish. Transparent umbrellas, for instance, won't obstruct faces and can add a whimsical touch to rainy-day photos.
🍂 What to Wear: Style, Comfort & Co-ordination. Embrace Autumnal Tones.
Clothing choices will play a huge part in how your photos turn out. Here are some detailed tips:
Colour Palettes & Patterns
Autumn is characterised by rich, earthy colours. Pick an outfit that complements the season's natural beauty. Consider incorporating shades like; mustard yellow, rust, burgundy, olive/forest green, warm browns, camel, cream, terracotta, warm greys. These colours show up beautifully in natural settings.
Muted tones generally work better than very bright/neon ones, which may clash with the autumn background or distract from faces. If you want a pop of colour, use it as an accent (a scarf, hat, or accessory).
Avoid large logos, big graphics, overly busy prints. These tend to draw the eye away from the subjects and can look dated in years to come. Texture, however, is nice; knits, corduroy, wool, leather, denim bring depth.
🧥 Layer Up for Style and Comfort
Because the weather can change quickly, layering is your friend. Layering not only allows you to adapt (switch, add or remove), but adds visual interest to images. Some ideas:
Base layer: A comfortable top, blouse or long-sleeve tee.
Mid layer: Sweater, cardigan, lightweight jumper, or shirt/jacket. Knits with texture are especially lovely.
Outer layer: Coat or jacket. Think trench coat, wool overcoat, leather jacket, or a waterproof layer if rain is likely.
Accessories: Scarves, hats (berets, felt hats), gloves, boots. These not only keep you warm but look great in photos.
Footwear: Sturdy and comfortable. Ankle boots or waterproof boots can be useful, especially if our photoshoot takes us into parks, through leaves or muddy paths. Avoid ultra-delicate shoes (unless you prefer to keep to clean pavements) and new shoes that want to give you blisters.
🎨 Coordinate, Don't Match
If there are multiple people (family, friends, couples):
Coordinate without matching exactly. Choose a colour palette for everyone, maybe select two or three main tones and neutrals.
Let each person pick something that reflects their style within those colours (e.g. one in burgundy, another in olive, another in cream).
Include variation in textures: one with knitwear, another in denim or suede, perhaps someone with a patterned scarf or textured coat.
💇♀️ Hair Care for Windy Days
Windy weather can be fun, but also a challenge during outdoor photoshoots. To keep your hair looking its best:
Bring a hairbrush and hair tie/clips: These can help you quickly fix any wind-blown strands between shots.
Consider hairstyles that withstand the wind: Braids, low ponytails, or updos can keep your hair neat and in place.
Use accessories: Headbands or scarves can be both functional and fashionable, helping to keep hair out of your face.
Embrace the breeze: Sometimes, letting your hair flow naturally with the wind can create dynamic and expressive images. The movement adds a sense of freedom and spontaneity, resulting in memorable photographs.
🍁 🍂 Why Autumn / Fall is Special in London
It’s worth ending by reflecting on what makes autumn in London a uniquely beautiful time for photos:
Colourful foliage: The parks and tree-lined streets offer dramatic colour - from golds and oranges to deep reds. Leaves underfoot add texture and soften hard surfaces.
Soft light & dreamy skies: Overcast skies diffuse light, reduce harsh shadows. Golden hour is especially magical.
Mood & atmosphere: Mist, crisp air, the sense of transition; these bring emotion, depth and character into photos in a way that mid-summer often can’t.
City plus nature: London gives you both historic architecture, riverbanks, bridges, alleyways, and leafy parks within relatively short distance; photos can mix urban and natural settings beautifully.
📸 Ready to Capture the Moment?
If you’re considering booking a photoshoot this autumn / fall in London, now is the time to plan. Think about your colour palette, look for layered outfits that keep you warm and stylish, choose locations that resonate with you, and leave room for spontaneity - because some of the best shots happen when you’re relaxed, moving, and interacting naturally.
If you’d like help finalising outfit ideas, choosing the best locations in London for autumn light, or getting a bespoke package for your shoot, I’d love to help. Autumn doesn’t last forever - but the memories captured in its golden glow do.
Book your Autumn / Fall London photoshoot with me today and let's make magic together!
Feel free to reach out via the form below with any questions or to discuss your vision for the photoshoot.
