My Top “Pics” for Fall around Wilmette

Fall is around the corner… I know, I know, we are barely half way through summer. But, now is the time I start planning for fall. And, now is the time people start asking me WHERE and WHEN do we do our photos?

Of course there is always Gillson Beach. I wrote a whole blog on beach photos so be sure to check that out. Time is of the essence when it comes to beach photos and there is always the wind and sand to think of.

We also have nearby the Gillson Garden/Wallace bowl. I find this a very overlooked area for photos, especially in the summer/late summer months. It has a different vibe then the beach, keeps you from the wind and the sand, and still offers beautiful shots and variety. There are bridges, flowers and the stone stair cases all making for great movement for pictures.

Mallinkrodt Gardens offers great walkability and beautiful gardens and trees. Overall, lots of options when it comes to backgrounds and activities. It is another place with lots of beautiful flowers and there are fun paths to walk down and trees to climb. I also love the gates that line the garden for a different look.

Keay Nature Center is a go to favorite for everyone. I should probably dedicate a whole blog to it eventually, but right now, we will just do the highlights. It is great for outdoorsy shots. It has plenty of options for kids to just be kids, and it give enough shade that it can be used a lot more times of the day instead of just golden hour. This location can be used year after year and still create different shots, especially if you do your photos at different times of the year. You will see different blooms, colors, and just overall wonderfully different backgrounds.

Bahai temple gardens is a place lots of people ask about, but most people rarely go. Now we are more limited on where we can frolic about at the Bahai. There is no photography allowed in the water feature area or in the high gardens, but at the base of the temple you still have lots of options for pretty photos surrounded by the trees. This is another spot that is great late summer and not just with the fall colors.

Mahoney Farms is another overlooked wonder in Wilmette/Kenilworth. It is right across from Plaza del Lago. It has lots of trees and a wonderful path to walk down and even a little (and when I say little I mean little) waterfall stream. This spot is more catered toward mini sessions and extended family as there is not a lot of room to wander around, but it still falls into one of my favorite spots.

Downtown of your town. I know everyone wants the beach or the fall leaves, but what about where you spend your nights or weekends. Think farmers market, coffee shop, the library. We love spending time in our towns, why not capture that love?

What about your own backyard? I love seeing families enjoy their space and just be relaxed doing there thing. And here in Wilmette there is nothing better than the backyards and homes that I see.

So where is your favorite spot for photos for the year? Do you have more than one? Don’t be beholden to my list! Be sure to share with me when making your booking if you have more ideas. I always love to find new spots! And my “favorite” list is forever growing and getting better because of my wonderful clients finding new spots. And for my further Northshore families, be on the look out for my favorite spots around Libertyville/Vernon Hills.