Hidden Gems: Capturing Fall Foliage in Northeast Ohio, Part. 1
The peak of fall foliage in Northeast Ohio is here—but don’t wait! This is the last week before the vibrant leaves start to fall, and now is the perfect time to capture those rich autumn colors before they’re gone. If you’re a professional photographer, this is a golden opportunity to book family sessions amidst the stunning backdrop of Northeast Ohio’s fall landscape. In this first installment, we’re spotlighting three hidden gems: North Chagrin Reservation, Orchard Hills Park, and Chapin Forest Reservation.
1. North Chagrin Reservation
Fall foliage reflecting off water near The North Chagrin Nature Center
Photo By C. Schwartz
Located in the Cleveland Metroparks, North Chagrin Reservation is bursting with autumn colors from its forests, wetlands, and waterfalls. Buttermilk Falls is an iconic location for family portraits, where the cascade of water is framed by brilliant reds and oranges.
Fiery red maple nested in some pines near Butter Milk Falls
Photo By C. Schwartz
Sanctuary Marsh offers another beautiful backdrop, with boardwalks weaving through fall-colored wetlands. Whether you’re photographing families, couples, or just the landscape itself, North Chagrin has the perfect mix of color and texture.
Sanctuary Marsh surrounded by fall beauty
Photo By C. Schwartz
Family Session Tip: For a dreamy, natural look, schedule your shoot around golden hour. Capture the family in candid moments along the wooden pathways, with reflections of the foliage in the water
2. Orchard Hills Park
Near the edge of the orchard is an excellent shot for some romantic images of couples and family.
Photo By C. Schwartz
If you’re looking for wide-open spaces combined with colorful forests, Orchard Hills Park in Geauga County is your go-to spot. This park’s rolling hills and meadows are framed by groves of beech and maple trees in their peak color, making it an ideal setting for family photography.
Trail Head bridge at Orchard Hills Park
Photo By C. Schwartz
Morning fog adds a magical element to wide shots, while the trails offer intimate spots for close-ups of family interactions surrounded by golden leaves.
Family Session Tip: Utilize the park’s scenic vistas for large family portraits. The panoramic views will allow you to capture not only the family but the stunning array of colors in the background.
3. Chapin Forest Reservation
Chapin Forest Reservation in Lake County is another must-visit spot during the last days of peak fall foliage. The towering trees, especially along the Quarry Loop Trail, create a majestic, almost fairy-tale-like setting for family sessions.
Sun Peaking through the trees along Quarry Loop Trail
Photo By C. Schwartz
For a dramatic family portrait, take advantage of the overlook near the Ledges Picnic Area, where you’ll get sweeping views of the Cuyahoga Valley dressed in its fall finest. It’s also a great location for senior portraits or engagement photos, with the distant view of Lake Erie adding a serene backdrop.
A small pond near Quarry Shelter covered completely in algae.
Photo By C. Schwartz
Family Session Tip: The Quarry Loop offers plenty of shade, so you can schedule mid-day sessions without worrying about harsh lighting. A polarizing filter will help deepen the sky and enhance the contrast between the leaves and the landscape.
Don’t Wait!
Time is running out to capture the magic of fall in Northeast Ohio! This week may be your last chance to photograph families against the vibrant fall foliage. Whether you’re shooting candid moments or more formal portraits, North Chagrin, Orchard Hills, and Chapin Forest provide the perfect backdrop before the leaves start to fall. Don’t miss out on this fleeting beauty—book your sessions now and take advantage of these stunning locations!
Stay tuned for the next part of the series as we reveal more hidden gems perfect for fall photography.
