With cooler temperatures and changing leaves, Birmingham offers some of the best locations for seasonal photography. Here are five spots that make a perfect backdrop for fall photos around the city.

1. Birmingham Botanical Gardens

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens offers classic fall scenery with a range of seasonal plants and beautiful landscapes. The Japanese Gardens are especially photogenic, featuring Japanese maples and stone paths. From bright flowers to tree-lined trails, there’s no shortage of spots for a variety of fall photo styles.

2. Railroad Park

Railroad Park’s mix of green space and urban scenery makes it a versatile location for fall photos. As the trees start to turn, the reds and yellows provide a beautiful contrast against the Birmingham skyline. The park’s wide, open layout and accessible paths allow for both expansive city shots and quaint nature scenes.

3. Red Mountain Park

If you're looking for a woodsy atmosphere, Red Mountain Park is ideal. The trails take you through deep fall foliage, and you can hike to overlooks like Grace’s Gap for great views of the area framed by the changing trees. The old mining relics along a few of the trails can add a unique, rustic touch to photos.

4. Vulcan Park and Museum

With one of the best views of Birmingham, Vulcan Park is a classic for fall photography. The changing trees around the park contrast beautifully with the cityscape. Whether you’re at the observation deck or along the trails, the mix of city and nature offers a great variety of photo opportunities.

5. Aldridge Gardens

Aldridge Gardens in Hoover is a lesser-known gem with a calm lake and trails lined with changing leaves. The reflections off the lake add depth and color to photos, and there’s plenty of space to find quiet, scenic spots for close-ups and landscape shots. The gardens’ water features and unique flowers make it a standout choice for a fall photo session.

Photo by Jeremy Gallman