Fall in Minnesota is basically Mother Nature showing off — crisp air, golden leaves, cozy sweater weather… and the perfect backdrop for senior pictures! Whether you’re Class of 2025 or 2026, the autumn season is such a dreamy time to capture your personality and celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime milestone.
Here are my top 5 favorite fall senior photo locations in the Lakeville area and why I can’t get enough of them.
1. Whitetail Woods Regional Park (Farmington, MN)
If you dream of glowing fields, towering trees, and pops of autumn color, Whitetail Woods is for you.
Why I love it:
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A gorgeous mix of open meadows and wooded trails
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Plenty of space to capture variety in your gallery
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In the fall, the colors here are chef’s kiss — golden yellows, deep oranges, and a soft light that makes skin tones glow.
2. Ritter Farm Park (Lakeville, MN)
A local gem that offers both rustic charm and peaceful nature scenes.
Why I love it:
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Wooden fences, winding trails, and a peaceful creek
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Perfect for seniors who want a laid-back, country-meets-nature vibe
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The light filters beautifully through the trees for that dreamy, warm glow
3. Lebanon Hills Regional Park (Eagan, MN)
For the senior who loves variety — you can get everything from forest to lake views in one spot.
Why I love it:
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Endless trails surrounded by colorful leaves in the fall
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Stunning lakeside spots for peaceful, reflective portraits
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Plenty of tucked-away corners for a more private sessions
4. Downtown Lakeville
Yes, I said downtown — because fall isn’t just about nature! Sometimes a mix of urban charm and seasonal color is exactly what makes a senior session pop.
Why I love it:
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Brick walls, cute storefronts, and cozy coffee shop vibes
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You can still catch some fall foliage at nearby parks for a blend of styles
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Perfect for seniors who want something more modern and different
5. Schaar’s Bluff (Hastings, MN)
A hidden treasure with panoramic river views and endless golden hour magic.
Why I love it:
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Stunning overlook of the Mississippi River framed by fiery fall leaves
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Open fields mixed with wooded trails for plenty of variety
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The sunset here is unreal — perfect for ending your senior session with a jaw-dropping shot
🍁 Pro Tip for Fall Senior Photos: Book Early!
Fall is one of the busiest seasons for photographers — between seniors, families, and holiday card sessions, my calendar fills up quickly! If you’re hoping for that perfect mix of cozy sweater weather and fiery leaf colors, the best time to book is late summer. That way, you lock in your date before the leaves hit peak color.
📸 Ready to book your fall senior session?
Let’s make your session you — fun, relaxed, and filled with laughter. Reach out here: https://stephanienewmanphotography.com/contact
