Places in the Lehigh Valley for Fall Family Portraits

Fall in the Lehigh Valley is gorgeous! (Though, as I am writing this it's about 84 degrees outside.) With the natural beauty all around us, fall makes for a great time of year for family photos and capturing special moments.

GREAT PLACES FOR FALL PHOTOS

Fall in the Lehigh Valley 2013, Jordan Creek (c) Smedstad

Here are few places around the Lehigh Valley that make for great photo backdrops.

1. Lehigh University: With the big trees and beautiful, old buildings, the university is a great place for candid and posed portraits. 
2. Jordan Creek: Upon exiting the Lehigh Valley Zoo, you can forge the Jordan. This area is filled with fall foliage, a picturesque bridge and the water. 
3. Ontelaunee Park: If you haven't traveled this far north on 309, it's worth it. I think this park would be a great place for outdoor shots. 
4. Hawk Mountain: What could be more amazing than a family shot with all of fall's splendor behind you. The view and your photos would be amazing! 
5. Strawberry Acres: A friend of mine had family photos taken here and they were so cute (and there was no charge to for them to do so).
6. Bridges: How about near one of the Lehigh Valley's covered bridges? That could make for a beautiful photo with a local-feel. 

TIPS FOR TAKING FAB FALL FAMILY PHOTOS

I've seen local photographers charge from $75 - $200 for 1.5 - 2 hour photo sessions. If you can do this, I would recommend it. Ask the photographer to take a mix of posed and candid shots. Often it's the candids that make for the best pictures.

1. Coordinate: I love when families take photos in outfits that coordinate, yet aren't too matchy. Creams, browns and oranges. Jeans, boots and sweaters. Fall is usually a season filled with comfy,  warm and stylish clothes. 
2. Be natural: Just be yourselves ... let the kids play ... hug, kiss and be together. Ask the photographer to capture those real family moments. 
3. Time it right: The natural light of early morning or late afternoon is often fantastic for photos. Avoid the outdoors when the sun is highest in the sky ... it'll make for unwanted shadows. I recommend morning, while the kids are "fresh" or after nap time. 

When deciding whether to use a photographer, ask about how they deliver the final proofs. My favorite way to receive photos is on a CD, that way I receive all of the files and can upload (and order) from Shutterfly. Ask about getting exclusive rights to use the photos for personal use.

What other tips or advice do you have about fall photos? Are you planning a family portrait day in preparation for the upcoming holiday season?