If you’re searching for the best fall photo spots in Chapel Hill and Carrboro, you’re in luck — our area is full of gorgeous backdrops that come alive when the leaves turn. Whether you’re planning family portraits, engagement photos, or updated headshots, the right location can make all the difference. Below are my favorite fall photography locations, plus tips on the best times of day to shoot at each one.
1. UNC’s Coker Arboretum (Chapel Hill)
Nestled right on campus, Coker Arboretum is a Chapel Hill classic. In autumn, its winding paths are lined with fiery red maples and golden oaks. This and the surrounding area is one of my favorite spots!
- Best for: Family sessions, couples, and portraits with lush natural color
- Best time of day: Morning for softer light filtering through trees; late afternoon for a golden glow
2. The Old Well and UNC Campus (Chapel Hill)
Nothing says Chapel Hill like the Old Well framed by fall leaves. The campus itself offers historic brick walkways, stately buildings, and bursts of orange and yellow foliage. This is a good early morning spot, as campus can be quite busy even in the late day. I don't recommend this spot near the end of the school term, when UNC seniors are taking graduation photos — I've waited over an hour to shoot at this location before!
- Best for: Families with UNC ties, senior portraits, professional headshots with a collegiate feel
- Best time of day: Early morning for fewer crowds; golden hour for a warm, timeless look
3. Battle Park (Chapel Hill)
Tucked beside campus, Battle Park feels like a hidden forest in the heart of town. Its wooded trails, rustic stone bridges, and quiet atmosphere make it a photographer’s dream in autumn.
- Best for: Adventurous families, couples, and nature-inspired portraits
- Best time of day: Mid- to late-afternoon when the sun filters through the trees
4. Southern Community Park (Chapel Hill)
This large park has open fields, wooded trails, and a mix of natural backdrops. In fall, the fields turn golden and the trees pop with rich seasonal tones.
- Best for: Large family groups, kids who love to run, and relaxed lifestyle sessions
- Best time of day: Late afternoon for soft light over the open spaces
5. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park (Carrboro)
This spacious park offers a beautiful blend of open fields and tree-lined areas, making it a versatile spot for fall portraits. Its wide grassy areas are perfect for active families, while the changing leaves provide a colorful seasonal backdrop. The park's “natural playground” provides great props for active kids that aren't designed to sit still.
- Best for: Families with young children, lifestyle portraits, and playful sessions
- Best time of day: Golden hour, when the setting sun warms up the wide-open spaces
6. Downtown Carrboro
If you want something different from the natural look, downtown Carrboro’s colorful murals, textured brick walls, and small-town vibe give you a modern yet local feel. In fall, the softer light and cool evening air make for a vibrant session.
- Best for: Seniors, couples, and anyone who wants a bold, urban backdrop
- Best time of day: Late afternoon into early evening, when the streetlights start to glow
7. Carolina North Forest (Chapel Hill & Carrboro)
- Best for: Nature-loving families, couples, and lifestyle portraits in a woodland setting
- Best time of day: Morning for crisp, filtered light through the trees; late afternoon for warm colors over the creek
Carolina North Forest is a local treasure, especially in autumn when the hardwoods glow with shades of gold and red. Bolin Creek winds through the forest, adding a natural water element to your portraits. The trails feel tucked away and serene, making it an ideal spot for families or couples who want an adventurous, outdoorsy vibe in their photos. This is my favorite place to shoot photos locally!
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Fall Location
- Think about your family’s personality — do you feel more at home in nature, on campus, or in town?
- Consider color palettes — golden leaves pair beautifully with neutral or Carolina blue clothing.
- Plan for comfort — some locations are more stroller- or kid-friendly than others.
Ready to Capture Your Family This Fall?
The colors in Chapel Hill and Carrboro won’t last forever, and autumn is one of the most popular times of year for portraits. If you’d love timeless images with modern styling in one of these beautiful locations, I’d be honored to photograph your family. Contact me today to book your fall photoshoot while spots are still available.
