Have you heard the news? It's almost fall, y'all!
While it definitely doesn't feel like fall here in Alabama yet, I am SO ready for cooler weather, changing leaves, and pumpkin spice everything. To celebrate, I'm sharing a Fall Photo Locations Guide to the Top 10 Fall Family Photo Spots in South Alabama (and a bonus location just over the border in Florida).
I offer Fall Mini Sessions every year (stay tuned for the 2023 announcement coming soon!), so I've gone through plenty of trial and error scouting out the best places in South Alabama to take seasonal family photos. Each of these locations offers a unique setting to complement your family's photos. No matter what kind of vibe you're going for, there's a fall photo location that your family will love—let's jump in!
Top 10 South Alabama Fall Family Photo Spots
1. At Home
There's no place like home! Home is always a good option for family photos since you get to document memories in a special place without having to travel. These at-home sessions also tend to be more intimate and offer genuine opportunities for family fun. Get inspired with the Alnoah Family's At-Home Session and the Clark Family's Fall Family Adventure Session, shot in their home and family farm.
2. Blakeley State Park - Spanish Fort, Alabama
Blakeley State Park in Spanish Fort, AL is one of my go-to picks for family photos thanks to the beautiful variety of backdrops. From massive oak trees to rolling fields and a charming boardwalk, Blakeley has a little bit of everything. There are a lot of fun places to explore throughout the park, making it ideal for families with energetic little ones. Check out Angela and Ricky's Engagement Session for more photos from Blakeley State Park.
3. South Beach (near Fairhope Pier) - Fairhope, Alabama
The South Beach area, located near Fairhope Pier in Fairhope, AL, is perfect for minimal walking and stunning views. You can capture photos in front of the water and under the large oak trees, giving you plenty of flexibility for all your family pictures. If you have a large group or don't want to run all around town for family photos, I highly recommend South Beach. I photographed the Ligon Family there, so give their session a read to see some of my favorite spots in the park.
4. Five Rivers Delta - Spanish Fort, AL
Five Rivers Delta is a picturesque area of Spanish Fort, AL with views of the bay—the perfect setting for family photos. You can also explore the park's nature trails for a change of scenery. Keep in mind that Five Rivers Delta closes at 5:00 PM, so plan your visit accordingly. Caitlin and Arie chose this spot for their Spring Maternity Session, which you can read here.
5. Bayfront Park - Daphne, Alabama
Bayfront Park in Daphne, AL is one of my favorite fall family photo locations because it captures all the fun beach vibes. I love to photograph families and couples on the palm-covered boardwalk before making our way to the beachy bayfront area. Kids will love exploring this park, and parents can capture some romantic one-on-one moments together, too. See more photos of Bayfront Park from my Engagement Session with Lizzi and Lakin.
6. Oscar Johnson Park - Silverhill, Alabama
Spoiler alert: 2023 Fall Minis will be hosted at this next photo location, Oscar Johnson Park in Silverhill, AL. I'm obsessed with the incredible fall aesthetics of this spot, including the charming creek and covered wooden bridge. Check out my Becker Family and Beason Family Fall Sessions to get some inspiration for your photos!
7. Charles Wood Japanese Garden - Mobile, Alabama
I can't get enough of the Charles Wood Japanese Garden in Mobile, AL. This quiet corner of Mobile has endless walking paths, bridges, and ponds to explore. The landscaping throughout the garden is spot-on, and there are so many picture-perfect hidden gems to discover.
8. The Grand Hotel - Point Clear, Alabama
Give your fall family photos some va-va-voom by photographing them at Point Clear, AL's Grand Hotel. Grand is definitely the word I'd use to describe this beautiful property! At The Grand Hotel, you'll find everything from massive oak trees to unique rock jetties. You must be a hotel guest to take pictures, but it's worth it for a night.
9. Downtown Mobile - Mobile, AL
Downtown Mobile is an awesome location to channel a more urban, edgier aesthetic. This cute downtown area is great for capturing quirky and artistic shots throughout the city's parks, walkways, and rooftops. My Engagement Session with Carmen and Logan and Chris and Brittnee's Surprise Proposal highlight some of my favorite downtown Mobile spots.
10. Naval Live Oaks Nature Preserve - Gulf Breeze, FL
Rounding out this guide to the Top 10 South Alabama Fall Family Photo Spots is Naval Live Oaks Nature Preserve, situated in just one state over in the Florida town of Gulf Breeze. This secluded waterfront nature preserve offers more privacy than other popular beaches found in the area. The striking pieces of driftwood and bountiful seagrass create a scene fit for a postcard (or a family holiday card)!
P.S. if you're looking for more beach vibes like this, check out my Guide to the Best Gulf Coast Photo Locations.
Keep an eye out for my official 2023 Fall Mini Sessions announcement, and thanks for reading this Fall Photo Locations Guide!
xo,
Jessi
(c) Jessi Casara Photography
Jessi is a lifestyle documentary photographer based in southern Alabama, serving the Gulf Coast from Mobile, AL to Pensacola, FL, along with the Nashville, Chattanooga, and Atlanta areas. She specializes in couple, wedding, maternity, newborn, and family photography, and also enjoys commercial and creative portraiture. Available for travel worldwide. Find out more at www.casaraphoto.com.
