Fall Family Photo Shoots in the Twin Cities

When to book fall family photos

Fall color in the Twin Cities usually peaks somewhere between late September and mid-October, depending on the year and the trees. The weeks around peak color book up quickly, so it's best to reserve your date in late summer or as early as you can.

The best light comes during golden hour, roughly the last hour before sunset. In fall the sun sets a little earlier each week, so evening sessions start earlier too. That's good news for little ones' bedtimes.

Where to take fall photos around St. Paul

Wooded trails, fields of tall grass and tree-lined streets all glow in autumn. Around St. Paul, local favorites include Como Park, Hidden Falls Regional Park, the Mississippi River bluffs and the tree-lined boulevard of Summit Avenue. To the east, the St. Croix River valley at Afton State Park and the trails and prairie of Lake Elmo Park Reserve are stunning in autumn. If your own backyard or neighborhood trees are putting on a show, that works beautifully too.

I photograph families all around St. Paul and the Twin Cities, including Roseville, Maplewood, Woodbury, Cottage Grove, Lake Elmo, Afton, Eagan and Edina.

What to wear for fall family pictures

• Warm, earthy colors. Rust, mustard, olive, cream, camel and denim look beautiful against fall leaves. Skip neon colors and big logos.
• Texture and layers. Knits, flannel, corduroy and scarves add depth to your photos and keep everyone warm on chilly Minnesota evenings.
• Comfortable shoes. We may walk through leaves, grass or trails.
• Jackets for between shots. Bring warm layers to throw on between photos so nobody ends up shivering.