Fall is my favorite season to have family photos taken. In the cooler, crisper air, everyone looks their best: no heat rash, no sweaty faces, no frizz, and we moms can finally pull out our favorite hot mama boots. Plus, there’s the New England fall foliage – what a backdrop it makes!
The question is, where are the best places in Boston to do a family photo session? We asked photographer Korri Crowley, whose work we were introduced to in Kristin’s post about things to do on Castle Island with kids. (Remember the adorable photo of Kristin's daughter? That was Korri's work.) Here, Korri shares her favorite spots in and around Boston for family photos, and what she likes about each one.
1. Arnold Arboretum, Jamaica Plain. Lots of wooded areas, paved walking trails, and pet/dog friendly. Lilac festival in the spring. Great for older children because all the foliage is labeled. Good teaching opportunity. Photo above was taken in the Leventritt Shrub & Vine Garden.
2. Nut Island, Quincy. Not actually an island, but a peninsula park. Small clusters of pines and trees, rocky oceanfront. The long pier is great for photos on it or under it (like in the photo). Fairly large park, but not super popular, so you don't have to fight crowds for good photos. Has an amazing view of downtown Boston. Good for families that want photos at the ocean, but don't live close to a large beach.
3. Castle Island, South Boston. Very large park, lots of paved walking trails (good for strollers). Lots of variety for photography: oceanfront, the castle island fort (featured in photo), a playground, trees, and open, grassy areas.
4. Spot Pond, Stoneham. Part of the great Middlesex Fells Reservation. Absolutely beautiful spot for fall. Lakefront, and amazing foliage. Right off of 93 and very easy to get to.
5. deCordova Sculpture Park , Lincoln. Very family friendly, with lots of art that children are welcome to interact with.
6. The client’s home. Having photos done in your home makes them real, makes them personal, and makes children very comfortable. I start 70% of my family shoots in the client's home and then visit an outdoor location later. Families are always more at ease when we start in their homes.
Korri Leigh Crowley of Photography by KLC is a Boston-based creative and contemporary photographer who loves to capture families doing what they do best - playing, learning, and loving. See more on her blog and her Facebook page.