Capture the Magic of Fall: Maclay Gardens Mini Sessions

As the fall season unfolds, it’s the perfect time to document your family’s precious moments with Sugar Lens Studio. After spending my first Fall season here in the throes of pregnancy, I am thrilled to finally offer exclusive fall mini sessions at the stunning Maclay Gardens State Park! These sessions are a fantastic way to capture the vibrant colors and serene beauty of autumn while creating lasting memories with your loved ones. Whether you’re looking to get your Holiday card photos out of the way or simply just updating your family portraits, I’ve got you covered.

Why Choose Maclay Gardens for Your Fall Photos?

Maclay Gardens State Park is a local treasure and a favorite location for many Tallahassee family photographers. The park’s breathtaking landscapes—featuring towering oaks draped in Spanish moss, colorful seasonal blooms, and tranquil reflecting ponds—provide the ideal backdrop for capturing the essence of your family during the fall season. This natural setting enhances the warm, intimate atmosphere we aim to create in every photo session.

Wardrobe Tips for Stunning Fall Photos

Selecting the right outfits can make a significant difference in the outcome of your photos. As a seasoned lifestyle photographer, here are my top recommendations:

1. Coordinate with Fall Colors: Embrace the rich tones of the season by choosing outfits in colors like deep reds, mustard yellows, forest greens, and warm browns. These hues not only complement the autumn scenery but also ensure your photos have a cohesive, polished look. Remember, gone are the days of “matchy-matchy” - aim for coordination and complementary tones versus a “copy, paste” selection.

2. Play with Layers and Textures: Fall is the perfect time to experiment with layers. Consider adding scarves, vests, or cozy sweaters to your outfits. Textures like knits, denim, and corduroy can add depth and interest to your photos, making them stand out. Tip: long, flowy dresses photograph beautifully!

3. Keep Comfort in Mind: While style is essential, comfort should not be compromised. Ensure everyone, especially the little ones, are comfortable in their outfits. Happy, comfortable subjects make for the best photos.

4. Simple Patterns Over Bold Prints: While patterns can add visual interest, avoid busy prints or large logos that might distract from the overall image. Opt for simple, classic designs that complement rather than compete with the natural backdrop of Maclay Gardens.

Planning for a Successful Session

We all know by now that preparation is key to a successful photo session. Here are some tips to help you plan:

1. Choose the Golden Hour: The best time for outdoor photography is during the golden hour—shortly after sunrise or just before sunset. The soft, warm light during these times creates a beautiful, natural glow that enhances the fall colors and makes your family shine. Maclay Gardens follows state guidelines for opening and closing (sunrise to sunset) so not all of the mini sessions can be squeezed into that timeframe - the earlier you book, the better your chances are of snagging the BEST time slot. But not to worry if golden hour doesn’t work with your schedule, Maclay Gardens has so much tree cover that we’ll have soft, dreamy lighting well before golden hour hits.

2. Makeup That Lasts: For outdoor sessions, it’s important to choose makeup that not only enhances your natural beauty but also withstands the elements. Opt for matte finishes and setting sprays to keep your look fresh. A little extra blush or a pop of lip color can also help prevent you from looking washed out in the photos. Tip: bring your lip color with you for touch ups as needed!

3. Bring the Essentials: Pack a small bag with essentials like a hairbrush, mirror, and water. If you have young children, bring along their favorite toy or snack to keep them engaged and happy during the session.

Why Booking Early is Crucial

As any experienced family photographer will tell you, fall is one of the busiest times of the year. Here’s why it’s important to book your mini session early:

- Avoid the Holiday Rush: Secure your preferred time slot and avoid the stress of last-minute planning. Early booking ensures you have ample time to prepare and select the best date AND time slot for your family.

- Receive Photos in Time for the Holidays: Early booking means you’ll receive your edited images in plenty of time for holiday cards, gifts, or simply to cherish throughout the season.

- Exclusive Offers: YES PLEASE! Ready to book your fall mini session? Just mention this blog post during your booking and you’ll receive a $50 credit towards your next session with Sugar Lens Studio.

Book Your Fall Mini Session Today

Spots are limited, snag yours today!

I can’t wait to see you there!

A quick family selfie as we explored the grounds of Maclay Gardens State Park!