We're only a week away from the start of peak leaf season for Richmond, according to the Virginia Department of Forestry. October 20 - 31 is when the experts believe we'll have peak color, although they also warn that individual trees in urban and suburban locations can change earlier than big groupings of trees or forests.

So with fall upon us and colors brightening the skyline, I wanted to share some of my favorite fall photo locations for family and maternity photos:

Forest Hill Park. I could shoot 25 different sessions in Forest Hill Park and have each one of them in a different beautiful part of the park. This spot has so many nooks and special spots, including water features, rock outcrops, stone walkways, and a really cool tunnel, not to mention a bazillion trees. The park is spread out and has some really wonderful spots that require some walking to reach. The paths are smooth, but the giant hill to get to the pond at the bottom may be difficult for anyone with walking difficulties.

Pump House Park is often overlooked in the James River Parks system. It’s tucked away right beside Byrd Park and lots of people drive right past it. There's a stone house, waterfalls/spillways, and flat trails through the woods that really make it a great spot for extended families, families with older kids or couples (like maternity clients). It’s not great for toddlers because there are zero railings and some sheer drops along the spillway that just add to the anxiety of a session (who needs that?).

Libby Hill Park is a classic, popular spot for photos any time of year. The golden light that hits the top of the hill in the afternoons/evenings make it especially beautiful, and the gingko trees turning brilliant yellow in the fall make it perfect for lots of different types of sessions. Little kids seem to really like the big stairs and the big cobblestone hills that wind around the park, as well as the fountain. I really like the path that winds through the ivy, and the (safe) overlook that peeks over the James. It’s a great spot for couples, maternity photos, or for family sessions.

Belle Isle is another classic spot where I love to shoot. It’s another one of those places where I could shoot a dozen times but have it look different every time. The trees over the path create a beautiful canopy, while the pond offers mirror reflections and the rocky play areas have lots of spots for beautiful sunlight and views of the city. I’ve done maternity and family sessions here during each season of the year, and I honestly can’t choose which season is my favorite for this spot.

There are lots more! Your backyard could be the most perfect location if you’re comfortable playing there. I love documenting toddlers and kids of all ages playing in the backyard. Keep your eyes open as you drive around your area or visit your favorite outdoor spots this week. Where are the leaves changing? What are your favorite fall photo locations? Shoot me an email (allison@allisonpatelphoto.com) and tell me where you'd like to go!