Why Autumn is the best season for Outdoor Photography...

If you ask me, autumn is the time for photographs. And no, I’m not just saying that because I’m a photographer who gets unreasonably excited about a good tree.

Although, in fairness, have you SEEN the trees lately?

There’s something about autumn that makes everything feel a little bit magical. The beautiful light, the colours, the excuse to wear your favourite cosy knits… and all those wonderfully ordinary little moments that happen when you take children outdoors and let them get on with being children.

It’s also one of my absolute favourite times of year for outdoor family photography in Hertfordshire, so here’s why an autumn family or maternity photoshoot might just be a very good idea.

The light. Oh, the light.

Autumn light is just beautiful. The sun sits lower in the sky, giving us that softer, warmer light that makes everything feel a little more painterly.

It's gorgeous for maternity photography, with soft light falling across a bump and the last of the sunshine filtering through the trees. And for family photographs? It's perfect for capturing those little moments in between the chaos. The cuddles, the giggles, the hand reaching for yours and the small person who absolutely refuses to walk in the direction you had in mind.

You know. The good stuff.

Cosy knits, beautiful textures and no giant coats

Autumn is that happy little window when it's not too cold to be outdoors, but you can still wear all your favourite cosy things.

Think chunky knits, soft wool, linen, corduroy and natural fibres. They photograph beautifully, adding warmth and texture without distracting from the people in the picture. Earthy colours and timeless fabrics also mean your photographs won't feel dated in a few years' time.

And the best bit? You can layer up without squeezing everyone into bulky winter coats. (As much as I love a practical coat, they're not always the most photogenic!)

Puddles, wellies and forest treasure

One of the things I love most about outdoor family photography is that the best moments rarely happen when everyone is standing still and looking at the camera.

They're much more likely to happen when someone spots a puddle.

Autumn brings puddles for splashing, colourful leaves for collecting and conkers, acorns and interesting sticks that apparently must be brought home at all costs. Wellies are sometimes essential, and honestly? They can be very cute in photographs.

I want your children to run, explore, get a little muddy and be themselves. We'll follow their lead, make time for the little things and let the moments unfold naturally.

Because these are the details you'll want to remember, not whether everyone stayed spotless.

But have I mentioned the COLOURS?

The golds, russets, burnt oranges, deep reds and glorious copper tones. Nature really does do all the styling for us.

Sherrardspark Woods is one of my favourite places for an autumn family photoshoot near Welwyn Garden City, and it's easy to see why. Those rich woodland colours create a beautiful backdrop for family and maternity photographs alike.

And it doesn't have to be bright sunshine, either. Damp leaves, a little drizzle and moody woodland light can be every bit as atmospheric. Autumn has plenty to offer, even when the British weather is doing its thing. To be totally honest, I absolutely love a drizzly shoot.

What if the children don't cooperate?

Firstly, this is family photography, not a military operation.

I'm not looking for perfectly coordinated outfits, identical smiles or children who behave like tiny adults. I'm interested in the way your family fits together: the relationships, the personalities, the little quirks and the moments that make your family yours.

My approach to family photography is gentle, relaxed and child-led. We'll walk, play, cuddle and explore, with a little guidance when you need it and absolutely no pressure to perform.

And if we need to spend five minutes investigating a particularly interesting puddle? So be it.

A little chapter worth remembering

Whether you're expecting your first baby, watching your family grow or trying to hold onto this particular version of your children before everything changes again, autumn is a beautiful time to make photographs.

The walks, the cuddles, the tiny hands in yours, the bump you're still getting used to, the children who seem to grow another inch every time you blink.

You won't always remember the exact shade of the leaves or the way the light fell through the trees. But a photograph can bring you back to it. It can sharpen those slightly blurry memories and remind you how it all felt.

So, if you've been looking for a family photographer in Hertfordshire or a relaxed outdoor maternity photoshoot, consider this your gentle nudge.

Find your favourite cosy knit. Dig out the wellies. Bring a pocket for the conkers.

I'll bring my camera.

Let's make something lovely out of this little chapter of your story.

if you've made it to the end of this blog- bravo! You can book on my bookings page here