When do fall colors peak in Chicago?

Early–mid October most years. September offers warm light with early golds, and late October brings moodier tones.

What’s the difference between Signature, Classic, and Petite?

Signature: 90 minutes (scheduled up to 2 hours) with 35+ images; Classic: 60 minutes with ~24+ images at Waterfall Glen or Riverside; Petite: up to 30 minutes with 8 images on specific dates/locations.

Can we combine birthday photos with our fall family session?

Yes—Signature sessions are ideal for adding a simple birthday moment alongside your family photos.

Neutrals and texture—cream, camel, denim, knits—photograph beautifully in fall light. A short style guide is provided after booking.

What if the weather turns?

Overcast is lovely. If heavy rain or high winds are expected, we’ll reschedule within your backup window.

Outdoor Fall Family Photography in Chicago

Name: Scarlett Photography LLC
Price range: $$

Fall Family Photography Chicago & Western Suburbs

Whether you’re dreaming of a full, story-driven session or a short and sweet update for holiday cards, I’ll guide you to beautiful locations and natural, relaxed images you’ll love to share.

Choose Your Outdoor Fall Session

With all of the session choices below, you will get expert guidance at the best Chicago area outdoor locations so you can simply enjoy a good time with your favorite people while I handle the rest!

Not sure what to book?

ASK A QUESTION

Signature Fall Session | 900

90 minutes (scheduled for up to 2 hours) • Full gallery of 35+ images • Tell your family’s story against Chicago’s beautiful October backdrop. We’ll mix movement and connection with any must-have portraits—you can even fold in birthday photos during the same session. Choose your preferred location(s) and any available date/time for the most flexibility and variety. Best for: families who want time to play, explore, and get a wide range of images Includes: planning guidance, styling tips, location/permit advice, and a private online gallery with high-res downloads Choose from all available Fall dates and most Chicagoland Locations! **Most Popular Session 3 years in a row!**

CHECK AVAILABILITY & RESERVE DATE

Classic Fall Session | 750

One-hour Session • Full gallery digital download of 25+ images • This fall photography session is great for small families, baby milestones, and those looking for updated family photos at either of my preferred outdoor locations this fall. You select your session date and time for this session so you can choose what works best for your family's schedule.

Waterfall Glen

One-hour session | Full Gallery Download | Flexible Dates & Times

RESERVE DATE

Riverside

One-hour session | Full Gallery Download | Flexible Dates & Times

RESERVE DATE

Petite Fall Session - LINCOLN PARK

Join me in Lincoln Park, on Sunday, October 5th for short and sweet Petite Fall Sessions. Each 30-minute spot is focused on capturing a few of the classic looking-at-camera-and-smiling photos along with some fun and authentic family photos. I will give you fun prompts which ensures we get genuine expressions from everyone. I give posing guidance to make sure you look your best without looking stiff. Exactly what you want for your holiday cards and to send updated photos to family.

RESERVE OCT 5

Petite Fall Session - WATERFALL GLEN

Join me at Waterfall Glen on Saturday, October 11th, for short and sweet Petite Fall Sessions. Each 30-minute spot is focused on capturing a few of the classic looking-at-camera-and-smiling photos along with some fun and authentic family photos. I will give you fun prompts which ensures we get genuine expressions from everyone. I give posing guidance to make sure you look your best without looking stiff. Exactly what you want for your holiday cards and to send updated photos to family.

RESERVE OCT 11

Looking for more flexibility?

Check Out the Signature Session

When do fall colors peak in Chicago?: Early–mid October is the sweet spot most years, you'll get the best golds and reds in the trees. This is the safe bet - here in Chicago we are one big gust of wind away from bare trees once we get later into the Fall Season.
What should I wear for my fall photoshoot?: Neutrals + texture photograph beautifully in fall light—think cream, camel, denim, knits, and a pop of rust, forest green, or red wine colors if you want a pop of color. After booking, I’ll send a short style guide with easy palettes.
Can we combine birthday photos with our fall family session?: Yes—Signature sessions are perfect for mixing a birthday/baby milestone with your family photos. We will make a session plan together that creates the best mix for your family.
When will I receive my photos?: Editing takes time to ensure the best quality. Final download galleries are delivered within 2-3 weeks.
Do you offer prints or just digital images?: We offer both! You can choose high-resolution digital files, professional prints, albums, and wall art to showcase your memories beautifully.
What happens if the weather is bad for an outdoor session?: I watch the forecast closely. Cloudy days are great for photoshoots! If heavy rain or high winds are expected, I’ll offer a reschedule window.
Can we include grandparents or bring our dog?: Absolutely—just let me know when booking so I can be ready.
Do any locations require permits or fees?: Some parks do. I’ll advise if a permit is needed for your chosen spot and help with the details.
Where do sessions take place?: Signature sessions can be at your preferred Chicago/Western Suburbs location(s). Classic sessions are held at Waterfall Glen (Lemont) or Riverside. Petite sessions run at set locations on specific dates.
How do we book?: Choose Signature or Classic to pick your date and location; grab a Petite spot on its listed date. A brief booking form and partial payment serves as your session retainer.
What happens if we need to reschedule?: Most sessions can be easily rescheduled to another date and time - check availability and send me an email as soon as you know you need to reschedule so we can secure your new date and time. For Petite sessions, if there are more Petite sessions available you may choose one of the availabile times, otherwise, your retainer can be applied to any available session within the next 6 months as long as 24 hour notice is given.

Towns we serve: Chicago and the western suburbs, including Riverside, Hinsdale, Western Springs, Oak Brook, La Grange, Downers Grove, Clarendon Hills, Elmhurst, Oak Park, Burr Ridge, Naperville, Westmont, Lincoln Park, Lakeview, South Loop, West Loop, Wicker Park, Logan Square, and Bucktown.

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