K Family | Family Photos at Cross Estate Gardens

There is something magical about fall family photos at Cross Estate Gardens. In mid-September, the gardens are still lush and green, the light turns golden earlier in the evening, and the air finally feels calm after a long summer.

At the heart of my work as a Central Jersey family photographer is the belief that family is everything. Every family has its unique story, and my goal is to capture those precious moments that will create lifelong memories for you to look back on. This fall, it was my joy to work with this lively family of 6 in a beautiful secret garden setting in central New Jersey.

Why Cross Estate Gardens Is Ideal for Larger Families

Cross Estate Gardens in Bernardsville, NJ offers:

• Wide open lawns for movement
• Formal gardens with structure and symmetry
• Tree-lined paths
• Stone details and historic charm
• Beautiful depth and layered backdrops

For larger families, this matters. When you have four children, space is essential. The open grounds allow kids to explore without feeling confined, while the garden pathways create natural gathering spots for group portraits.

This session flowed effortlessly because there was room to move.

Best Areas Within Cross Estate Gardens for Family Photos

Some of my favorite spots for fall family photos at Cross Estate Gardens include:

• The formal garden beds with structured symmetry
• The long grassy lawn overlooking the trees
• Stone staircases and architectural details
• Tree-lined paths that create depth and softness

Because the property is expansive, we can create variety without needing to rush.

For larger families, this variety helps keep kids interested and allows for natural transitions between groupings.

Why September Is Perfect for Fall Family Photos at Cross Estate Gardens

Mid-September gives you the best of both seasons.

• Gardens are still vibrant
• Greenery has not yet faded
• Golden evening light starts to soften
• Weather is more comfortable

On this particular evening, the weather was perfect. Not humid. Not chilly. Just that gentle transition into fall that feels easy. If you want early fall color without waiting until late October crowds, September is ideal.

What to Wear for Fall Family Photos at Cross Estate Gardens

This family chose creams and soft blues, and it worked beautifully against the greenery and stone architecture. For fall family photos at Cross Estate Gardens, I recommend:

• Neutral tones like cream, oatmeal, soft blue, dusty sage
• Coordinated but not matching outfits
• Texture over heavy patterns
• Comfortable shoes for walking

The gardens provide plenty of visual interest, so clothing should complement rather than compete. The styling here elevated everything. It felt cohesive, timeless, and effortless.

Read more from the blog: Family Portrait Style Guide

What Sessions Look Like With Four Little Kids (Including Twins)

Large family sessions do not need to feel chaotic. They need movement.

This session included:

• Walking through pathways together
• The twins interacting naturally as siblings do
• Younger siblings exploring
• Cuddles with mom woven throughout

Boy-girl twins add such a beautiful dynamic. There is connection, independence, and personality. Instead of forcing stiff group poses, we layered combinations:

• All six together
• Parents with all four
• Sibling groups
• Individual portraits
• Quiet moments with mom

Movement keeps everyone engaged. Especially with multiple kids, stillness is rarely the goal.

What to Know Before Booking Fall Family Photos at Cross Estate Gardens

A few practical things to consider:

• Sessions are best scheduled in the evening for optimal light
• Weekdays are typically quieter than weekends
• The gardens are public, so respectful awareness of other visitors is important
• Comfortable walking shoes are key

Because this location is a bit further for me, I book sessions here intentionally and in limited numbers each season.

It is a special setting, and I plan accordingly to make the most of it.

Planning Your Own Fall Family Photos at Cross Estate Gardens

If you are considering fall family photos at Cross Estate Gardens, especially with a larger family, here is what I recommend:

• Book early for September and early October dates
• Choose neutral, complementary tones
• Prepare for movement rather than perfection
• Trust the process

And if you are looking for a New Jersey family photographer who knows how to guide larger families naturally while using the gardens to their fullest, click the link to learn more about my approach.

Because family sessions with four kids should feel joyful, not stressful. And when the light, styling, and setting align like this, it becomes something truly special.