🍁 Best Family Photo Locations in Waterloo Region for Fall Colours (with Photos!)

Where to Capture the Magic of the Season with Your Family

Fall is hands down one of my favourite times of the year to photograph families in Kitchener-Waterloo and Cambridge. The colours are bold, the air is crisp, and the golden hour light? Absolute perfection. Whether you’re planning your annual family portraits, a milestone session, or just want to soak in the magic of autumn, these five local spots deliver stunning backdrops every time! Families often ask- "where should I go for photos in Waterloo region?" and this blog is your answer- it's going to be your go-to for choosing the best fall photo locations!

1. Huron Natural Area, Kitchener

Tucked inside the park to the left—open fields, glowing sunsets, and fall colour galore.

Huron Natural Area is a local gem, and in the fall it truly shines. I love heading to the open field area just inside the park (head left when you enter), where the trees burst into warm autumn tones and the sun sets right behind them. It’s a wide, open space that gives kids room to roam, and the light is dreamy for golden hour portraits. Bonus: it’s stroller-friendly and perfect for families with littles.

2. Sheave Mill Tower, Cambridge

Historic charm with a touch of romance—perfect for unique fall sessions.

This location has such a distinct feel. With its vintage red tower, flowing water, and charming bridge, the Sheave Mill Tower offers a mix of textures and depth that elevate any photo session. The winding pathways and tall grasses make it ideal for more styled, storytelling photos—and the fall colours surrounding the area are the cherry on top.

3. Monarch Woods, Kitchener

Deep in the forest with a full-body fall colour explosion.

This spot feels like stepping into a storybook. Monarch Woods offers multiple access points, and no matter where you enter, you’ll find yourself surrounded by rich reds, oranges, and golds. Fallen logs, creeks, and soft filtered light make this a photographer’s dream. That said, the light can be tricky—so if you’re booking another photographer, make sure they’re confident in low-light conditions. When used well, the result is breathtaking. This is one of my FAVOURITES for fall family photo locations in Kitchener.

4. Hidden Pathways in Waterloo

Sometimes the most magical places are the ones you stumble upon.

I know it sounds unusual, but some of my favourite fall sessions have happened on those “random” paths tucked into neighbourhoods or alongside the city’s many trails. These lesser-known spots often give you peak fall colour without the crowds. If you’re up for something spontaneous and unique, trust your photographer to scout one of these gems for you! These little nooks can be some of the best photo locations in the waterloo region!

5. Riverside Park, Cambridge – Back Entrance

Golden fields, wide maple forests, and all the fall feels.

Enter from the back side of Riverside Park and you’ll find fields of soft golden grasses leading into a maple tree wonderland. It’s full of colour, texture, and falling leaves—which means kids (and photographers!) love it. It’s a versatile location with both open light and wooded areas, making it perfect for family or milestone sessions.

Ready to Book Your Fall Session?

The best part about fall? The colours don’t last long. If you’ve been dreaming about family photos, now’s the time. My final September and October spots are filling quickly—book your session today to secure your favourite location! Want those golden leaves in your own portraits? My fall sessions are filling quickly!

Book Your Fall Family Photo Session