Toddler in cream overalls and an orange sweater sitting in fallen leaves, smiling at the camera.

There’s something about fall in Columbus that feels magical.

The air turns crisp, the leaves put on their best show, and the golden light makes everything feel a little softer, a little cozier.


If you’re dreaming of a fall family session, here are my favorite local spots that absolutely shine this time of year, plus some tips for making the most of each one.

 

Westerville, Ohio


Sharon Woods Metro Park


lake| trees| wild flowers

 

Family of four walking toward their daughter with arms outstretched in a green field surrounded by fall foliage. Sharon Woods

If you love variety, Sharon Woods delivers. Think fiery fall trees, high grassy areas, pockets of wildflowers, and a peaceful lake that reflects all those gorgeous colors.


Teen girl in cream sweater and white pants sitting on a rock by the water, smiling in soft fall light. Sharon Woods

Why I love it in fall: The leaves here turn the most brilliant shades of gold and red, and the tall grass adds soft, romantic movement to photos.

Parents swinging their young daughter between them while walking through a grassy field, dad holding a baby. Sharon Woods

Best for: Families who want both wide-open nature shots and intimate, tucked-away moments.


Tip: Wear boots, some of the best spots are just off the main paths.

 

Lewis Center, Ohio


Highbanks Metro Park


tall grass| wooded trails| trees

 

Family sitting on a blanket with sunlit golden trees behind them, smiling at each other. Highbanks Metro Park

If you want full-on fall foliage, this is your place. The trails wind through forests that absolutely burst with color, and there are also grassy overlooks that catch the afternoon light beautifully.

Couple walking arm in arm down a wooded trail surrounded by glowing fall leaves. Highbanks Metro Park

Why I love it in fall: Every turn feels like stepping into a painting, and that golden-hour glow here? Unreal.

Parents holding hands while mom carries baby, walking through a meadow with golden autumn trees in the background. Highbanks Metro Park

Best for: Couples, families with older kids, or anyone who loves that “walking through the woods” vibe.


Tip: Bring a blanket for some cozy seated shots under the trees.

 

New Albany, Ohio


Rocky Fork Metro Park


wide open fields| trees| wild flowers

 

Family of four walking on a paved path lined with colorful autumn trees, parents holding kids’ hands. Rocky Fork Metro Park

One of the most underrated fall photo spots. Rocky Fork has wide-open fields, wildflowers, and lines of trees that explode with color in October.

Teen girl in a white dress standing in a tall grassy field at sunset, smiling over her shoulder. Rocky Fork Metro Park

Why I love it in fall: It feels wild and open, perfect for letting little ones run and play during your session.

Family of five sitting on a blanket in a grassy field with golden fall foliage behind them, laughing together. Rocky Fork Metro Park

Best for: Families with active kids (or dogs!) who need space to move.


Tip: The light in the fields about an hour before sunset is absolute magic.

 

Westerville, Ohio


innis woods Metro Gardens


flowers| fallen leaves| verity

 

Young siblings sitting in a pile of autumn leaves, smiling at the camera under a golden tree. Innis Woods Metro Garden

Inniswood offers so many backdrop options: gardens, wooded paths, stone walls, and tree-lined trails. In fall, the foliage is stunning, but so is the variety of textures and colors in the gardens themselves.

Family of four sitting in fallen leaves with vibrant fall colors in the background, children hugging their parents. Innis Woods Metro Garden

Why I love it in fall: You can get 5 different “looks” without ever leaving the park.

Two young children running down a leaf-covered boardwalk surrounded by golden autumn trees. Innis Woods Metro Garden

Best for: Families or couples who want variety in their gallery.


Tip: It can get crowded, early morning or weekdays are your best bet for a little more space.

 

Columbus, Ohio


Goodale Park


urban| fountain| fallen leaves

 

Family of four sitting on a blanket in a park with fall colors in the distance, smiling warmly. Goodale Park

Perfect for those who love a more urban-meets-nature feel. Goodale has beautiful leaves, paved sidewalks, charming benches, and a pond for reflective shots.

Couple walking hand-in-hand on a leaf-strewn park path lined with benches and colorful fall trees. Goodale Park

Why I love it in fall: You get the romance of fall colors with the ease of paved walkways (perfect for strollers or heels).

Toddler standing in a pile of red and orange leaves, looking back over their shoulder as leaves fall around them. Goodale Park

Best for: Families with young kids or anyone wanting a city-adjacent vibe.


Tip: Pair your session here with a post-photos coffee or hot chocolate at a nearby café.

 

Westerville, Ohio


Highlands Park Aquatic Center


pond| bridge| fall Foliage

 

Father kneeling to kiss his toddler’s hand in a grassy park on a sunny autumn day. Highlands Aquatic Center

This hidden gem boasts stunning fall foliage, a peaceful pond with wildlife, and charming bridges that make perfect photo spots.

Family of four standing on a dock over a pond, surrounded by tall grasses and autumn trees reflecting in the water. Highlands Aquatic Center

Why I love it in fall: The bridges and water create natural focal points, and the wildlife adds a bit of extra magic.



Family of four walking on a boardwalk through tall grasses with late fall foliage in the background. Highlands Aquatic Center

Best for: Families or couples who want something scenic but not as crowded as bigger parks.


Tip: The bridges make great spots for group shots.

Behind-the-scenes fall photo session, Photographer kneels on a paved path, wearing a striped fall sweater and ripped jeans.
Photographer portrait in fall field, Smiling woman in a cozy striped sweater and ripped jeans holds a Nikon camera while standing in a field

 

Let's document your story

Choosing the right fall location is about more than just pretty leaves — it’s about finding a spot that fits your family’s vibe. Whether you want wild and free, cozy and tucked away, or somewhere in between, Columbus has a place for you.


If you’re ready to book your fall family session, now’s the time, these colors won’t last forever.

Book A Fall Mini