Pumpkins, Pets, and Playtime: Why Fall Is the Perfect Season for Portraits
There’s something magical about autumn in Alberta. The air turns crisp, the leaves show off their golden colours, and suddenly everything feels a little cozier. For many families, fall is a season of slowing down, celebrating small traditions, and enjoying the outdoors before winter sets in. For photographers like me at Toes and Beans Photography, it’s also one of the most wonderful times of the year to capture portraits of babies, children, and pets.
If you’ve been wondering whether autumn is the right time to book a photo session, here are some reasons why I think pumpkins, pets, and playtime make fall the perfect backdrop for memories.
The Magic of Autumn Light
Photographers talk a lot about light—it shapes everything about a portrait. In fall, the sun sits lower in the sky, creating a softer, golden glow that flatters both people and animals. You might hear us call this “golden hour,” but in autumn the light feels like it lingers longer, wrapping everything in warmth.
For babies, this gentle light softens delicate skin tones. For pets, it highlights fur textures and makes eyes sparkle. Even the simplest of setups—like a child sitting in a pumpkin patch or a dog playing in the leaves—feels cinematic in fall lighting.
Nature’s Ready-Made Backdrop
One of the best parts about photographing in October is that the world has already decorated itself. You don’t need complicated props when you have crunchy leaves, colourful trees, and pumpkins at your feet.
Pumpkins bring instant seasonal charm. Whether a baby is tucked safely beside them or a pet is sniffing curiously, they add both scale and playfulness to photos.
Leaves aren’t just pretty—they’re fun. Babies can sit among them, kids can toss them, and dogs can roll in them. Movement and laughter naturally follow.
Blankets and cozy textures like scarves or knits photograph beautifully against autumn scenery, adding comfort while hinting at the cooler weather.
Pets Love Playtime in Fall
If you’ve ever tried to photograph a pet in the middle of summer, you’ll know the challenge of bright sun and panting tongues. In fall, cooler temperatures make animals more comfortable and playful. Dogs especially enjoy romping in leaves or sitting happily beside their families without overheating.
As a photographer who works closely with rescue animals, I know every pet comes with their own personality. Fall settings allow me to bring out that individuality—whether it’s a shy cat snuggled in a blanket outdoors for the first time or a goofy puppy bounding through a pile of leaves.
Families Shine in Cozy Comfort
Autumn is also perfect for family portraits. The weather is cool but not freezing, which means we can layer adorable, comfy outfits without worrying about anyone being too hot or too cold. Think soft knits, cozy hats, and tiny booties for babies—all of which photograph beautifully.
For many families, fall is also a season of milestones. Maybe it’s a baby’s first pumpkin patch, their first Halloween, or even their first set of family photos. Whatever the occasion, autumn creates a warm, nostalgic backdrop that feels timeless.
Seasonal Traditions That Build Memories
One of the joys of photography is capturing not just a moment, but a story. Fall is full of small traditions that families return to year after year:
Visiting a pumpkin patch
Collecting colourful leaves
Going for evening walks under golden trees
Dressing up for Halloween
When we include these traditions in a photo session, the images instantly feel more personal. They remind families of what life felt like at that exact stage—whether it’s a toddler toddling through pumpkins or a rescue dog finally experiencing their first autumn in a loving home.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Fall Session
If you’re considering an autumn portrait session, here are a few things you can do to make it even more special:
1. Dress in layers. Soft textures and cozy knits look great on camera and keep everyone comfortable.
2. Choose seasonal colours. Warm earth tones (rust, mustard, cream, olive) photograph beautifully against autumn scenery.
3. Bring a favourite item. For pets, that might be a beloved toy. For babies, it could be a blanket or stuffy. These little touches make the photos uniquely yours.
4. Relax and have fun. Fall sessions are all about play—tossing leaves, cuddling under blankets, or letting your pet sniff pumpkins. Some of the best moments happen when you stop worrying about the “perfect” pose.
Why Fall Fits Toes and Beans Photography
At Toes and Beans Photography, we believe sessions should feel fun, easy, and stress-free. Autumn is the perfect season for that. The natural beauty does half the work, pets and kids are more comfortable outdoors, and there are endless opportunities for play.
Our goal is always to capture the joy and connection between families, whether that’s a baby giggling at falling leaves or a rescue dog leaning happily into their person’s arms. Fall gives us the perfect stage to let those little stories unfold.
Closing Thoughts
Pumpkins, pets, and playtime—it’s a combination that makes October feel magical. Autumn gives us the light, the colour, and the cozy atmosphere that bring out the best in portraits. But more importantly, it gives families a chance to slow down and make memories together.
If you’ve been waiting for the right time to book your session, October just might be it. Bring your baby, bring your pet, bring your whole family, and let’s celebrate the season in all its golden glory.