📸Rochester through my lens

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There’s something magical about Rochester this time of year.

The light feels warmer, the parks come alive, and every corner seems ready for a photo. 🌿

This month, I wanted to share a few of my favorite local gems that shine through the lens (and more importantly, are kid-approved for hikes, playgrounds and more):

1) ✨ Genesee Land Trust

Perhaps you've never heard of this network of nature preserves and parks but there are SO many hidden gems - explore the link below for your next outdoor excursion.

2) 🌸 Ganondagan State Historic Site

Not just a museum! (Although I’d highly recommend a visit). The fall colors come alive here. And just a short walk through the fields will bring you to the view featured in the picture above and at the top of this newsletter. There are several hiking trails through the woods, fields and across creeks - just be sure to retrace your steps so you don’t get lost like my family and I once did while aimlessly wandering!

3) Village Charm

Villages can be the BEST place for a day out and charming fall photos. There are so many to choose from in the Rochester area, I couldn’t pick just one: Fairport, Pittsford, East Rochester, Spencerport, Brockport, Canandaigua, to name a few. Villages offer great variety — you can grab portraits with fall color in a nearby green space, then walk just a few steps for more textured shots with brick or stone backdrops, complete with fun cafe scenes. These villages bring their A-game for fall - think big planters full of mums & hanging vines, pumpkins adorning storefronts, and the aroma of pumpkin-spiced lattes wafting from the nearest shop. Daytrippingroc.com has a rundown of Monroe County’s many villages, so I’ve linked it below.

Pro Tip:

Golden hour (the hour before sunset) is always worth it. The soft, flattering light means no harsh shadows, just warm glows that make skin tones look incredible. If you’re planning family or senior photos, this is the time to go!

Until next month, keep chasing the light ✨

Warmly,

Erin

Erin Cummings Photography

P.S. 🍁 Fall sessions are Rochester’s busiest time of year for family sessions, and October books up quickly! If you’ve been dreaming of cozy family photos, a golden-hour senior shoot, or updated portraits, now’s the time to grab your spot.