The sun is beginning to set sooner, the morning breeze is much cooler and we’ve said goodbye to summer. That means one thing… my favorite time to take family portraits in Philadelphia has arrived. It’s Fall y’all and I can hardly contain myself from thinking all things pumpkin and the oncoming holiday festivities. So, I thought this would be the perfect time to give family portrait ideas for outdoor locations based on a frequently asked question. As a local Philly portrait photographer, I often get asked “What are the best places to take pictures in Philadelphia?”.
We have such a photogenic city; and the suburban areas that surround downtown Philly never disappoint. There’s a portrait location that suits just about everyone’s personal style. Having to choose one location to capture the essence of your personality can be hard, so I love to suggest locations that offer many shooting spots to add diversity to my client’s galleries. The city’s various manicured gardens offer beautiful backdrops for outdoor portraits in the fall. The stately structures, wooden benches and fall foliage are visible through out the parks. If the great outdoors is more representative of where you love to spend your time, the suburbs surrounding Philly offer expansive farms, estates and national parks that will surely delight you.
The fall season is an ideal time for all portrait needs: Engagement photos, Wedding Photos, Family Photos, Couples photos and Anniversary Sessions. The portraits from fall photography sessions are simply stunning, thanks to the golden colors of the sun and fall foliage that paint the photo backdrops for photographs. Outdoor photography spots in Philadelphia are great for bringing along your furry family members to join in on your portrait session, so be sure not to leave them out of your fall portraits. Which make these sessions ideal for christmas card layouts, wedding guest books or an update for gallery walls in your home.
Top 5 Outdoor Family Portrait Locations
Appleford Estate
Appleford estate is a mainline country estate tucked away in the suburbs of the Villanova area. The expansive 24 acres of land houses a beautiful arboretum and bird sanctuary. The entrance to the estate is impressive with a winding tree lined driveway that leads you to its ponds, blossoming boxwood gardens and bubbling streams. If you love gardens and picturesque estates, you will love the photo options at this location, and it’s just a few minutes drive out of the city.
Visit website here.
Philadelphia Art Museum
The Philadelphia Art Museum is a staple in Philly photo locations. You can start at the bottom of the steps and work your way up the sides; to get an amazing view of the Philadelphia skyline behind you. There are lush green areas, beautiful architecture and boat house row in the distance for a variety of backdrops.
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Valley Forge National Park
This national park has beautiful historic homes and barns that are perfect for family photo shoots and holiday photo ideas for couples. It’s a great location for nature lovers and the sunset at this park is definitely one to see!
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Norristown Farm Park
This is a little known gem located in Montgomery County, PA. The trails, barns and streams are lined by lush leaves and trees. It’s a great place to go on a photo walk for your portrait session. Yet, another stunning location for evening sunsets outside of Philly’s city backdrops.
Visit website here.
The 18th Century Garden
This garden is conveniently located in Olde City Philadelphia, so its perfect for taking photos in romantic gardens. Then, exploring the nearby cobble stoned streets for an amazing city session.
Visit website here.
