Fall Colors Are Up Next!

Michigan's most popular photo season is right around the corner. Peak fall color in Metro Detroit typically arrives during the second and third weeks of October, but I photograph "fall colors" throughout the entire month. Different trees turn at different times, which means there's beautiful color to work with from early October through early November.

I have a variety of favorite fall locations throughout Plymouth, Northville, and Canton, and because I'm out photographing almost every day during the season, I'm always keeping tabs on where the best color is happening.

When Should I Book Fall Colors in Michigan?

The best timing depends on the look you're hoping for.

If you have a senior who wants a mix of late-summer greenery and fall color, early October can be perfect. You'll still have warm temperatures, comfortable evenings, and touches of fall color beginning to appear.

For families with babies or young children, I often recommend booking earlier in the season. The weather is usually milder, kids are more comfortable, and you'll still get plenty of beautiful autumn color.

If you're dreaming of those bold orange, red, and yellow leaves, mid-to-late October is typically your best bet.

Where Are the Best Places for Fall Photos?

Some of my favorite locations are tucked along Hines Drive in Northville, where the tree-lined paths create gorgeous color and light throughout October.

For late-season sessions, Cass Benton Park is always a showstopper. The colors there can be absolutely spectacular and often peak a little later than other locations.

One of the advantages of hiring a photographer is that you don't have to guess where the best color is. I'm constantly scouting locations and can recommend the perfect spot based on the timing of your session.

Fall Mini Sessions

Fall mini sessions will be more limited in 2026 than they have been in previous years.

In past seasons, I've offered mini sessions in some of my favorite locations, including:

Downtown Plymouth for a charming small-town feel with touches of fall color

Hines Park in Northville for the most dramatic fall foliage

Zibiwe's Nature Preserve in Canton for a softer, more neutral look with golden grasses, subtle yellows, and beautiful natural light

This year, I'll be offering a small number of weekday mini sessions along with one weekend date.

Because availability will be limited, I highly recommend joining the waitlist if you're interested. Waitlist members will receive first access before dates are released to the public.

Fall mini session booking is expected to open in late August.

family mini waitlists

New for 2026: Morning and Afternoon Sessions

One of the biggest surprises this year has been how much I've loved offering morning and early afternoon sessions.

Throughout the summer, families and seniors have been taking advantage of these earlier time slots, and they've been fantastic. Locations are often quieter, temperatures are cooler, and for families with young children, getting photos done before dinner and bedtime routines can make the entire experience less stressful.

These sessions can be a little trickier to fit into busy work schedules, but if you have some weekday flexibility, they can be a great alternative to traditional evening sessions.

For fall 2026, I'll be offering both 30-minute and 60-minute sessions during:

9:00–10:00am

3:00–4:00pm

You'll be able to choose a location within 20 minutes of Canton, or select from one of my favorite go-to locations throughout Plymouth, Northville, Canton, Ann Arbor, and Metro Detroit.

If you've been putting off scheduling photos because evening availability is limited, these daytime sessions may be the perfect solution. Booking will also be available in late August, sent out to my Fall Mini waitlist folks first.