Wisconsin gets about three good weeks of fall color, and fall mini sessions exist to catch them. Here is what to know before you book for 2026.
Where and When
This year's Appleton fall minis are at High Cliff Butterfly Pond and the Scheig Center, with dates across September and October 2026. Current dates and open times are always live on the booking page, which is the only place they are guaranteed to be accurate.
Why These Fill So Fast
I am based in Florida and travel up for these, so unlike a local photographer I cannot add a rescue date if the first ones sell out or if the weather turns. When the dates are gone, they are gone until next year. Families who have booked with me before know to watch for the announcement rather than wait.
What Is Included
Each fall mini is $290 plus tax and includes a full gallery of edited images with a print release. Everything I deliver is yours to print, share and turn into cards.
Reading the Color
Peak color in the Fox Valley usually lands in the first half of October, though it moves by a week or two each year depending on the summer. High Cliff turns earlier than most of the surrounding area because of the elevation along the ledge. If deep color matters to you more than a specific weekend, tell me when you book and I will point you toward the dates most likely to hit it.
Wisconsin Weather, Honestly
September evenings are usually mild. Late October can be genuinely cold, and small children lose patience with cold much faster than adults do. Bring layers you can pull off in the last few minutes, and dress the youngest warmer than you think they need.
Booking
Spots are released on the booking page and go in the order they are claimed. If you have a preferred date, book it rather than waiting to coordinate with extended family. In past years the popular slots have gone within days.
A handful of evenings, once a year, in the best light Wisconsin gives.