Fall in the Pacific Northwest is perfect for family photos. The colors of fall, the mild weather, not to mention the need for updated photos for holiday cards makes it a favorite time of year for so many families.
When I’m scouting for locations, I keep several factors in mind. I want a location that shows off the beauty of the area, has beautiful light, and allows for something fun for the family to do (like skip rocks, explore a trail, dance in a field, etc.). How busy a location is at a given time is also important. We don’t want to have to be avoiding people or worrying about distractions in our background. With all of those things in mind, I have come up with my top favorite locations for fall family photos!
Lincoln Park – Seattle
Honestly, Lincoln Park is about an hour drive for me to get to. However, it is so worth it. This park has so much to offer and works so well with the flow of my sessions. We start in the upper part of the park taking advantage of the gorgeous trees, and end right at the water’s edge, watching the ferry’s and tossing rocks into Puget Sound.
Tolt McDonald Park – Carnation
Although this park doesn’t quite allow for that amazing, low sunlight we all love (the park is tucked behind a hillside), the fall colors and variety more than make up for it. Tolt McDonald Park is not only on the river, but has a suspension bridge that serves as a favorite spot for families.
Rattlesnake Lake – North Bend
You might recognize Rattlesnake Lake from my Favorite Summer Spots post. However, it is still a fall favorite. From pretty leaves on the trail to the gorgeous lake, there is so much to love here.
Tanner Landing Park – North Bend
This is my secret park (okay it’s not so secret anymore), and probably my favorite spot in the Snoqualmie Valley. It can be tricky to find (not on Google Maps) but it is so worth the visit. Tanner Landing Park not only has a big open field with a mountain view, it has stunning trails and runs along the river, giving plenty of variety for one session.
Gold Creek Pond – Snoqualmie Pass
A family introduced me to this gem during their maternity photo session. It was love at first sight. While you cannot actually get into the pond to splash around, the trail, serene water, and mountain views make it an ideal family photo spot.
Fall City Community Park – Fall City
This is one of those parks that you have to just trust me that it’s a gorgeous family photo spot. If you were to drive by or pull up, you may not see it. But it is so beautiful here, especially in the fall. There is plenty of room for kids to run, beautiful fall color, and access to the river. We can also drive 2 minutes for a second spot right on the river.
Those are just six of my favorite locations for fall family photos around Seattle. Does one speak to you for your family photos this fall? Contact me to get started planning your family photo session.
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