Looking for the perfect spot for your next family portrait session? Buffalo, NY is home to a wide range of beautiful outdoor locations that are ideal for capturing gorgeous photos. Whether you’re looking for golden fields, scenic trails, waterfront views, or lush greenery, this list of family photo outdoor location ideas in Buffalo has you covered.

Here are five of our favorite outdoor family photo spots near Buffalo:

1. Knox Farm State Park – East Aurora, NY

Located just 25 minutes from downtown Buffalo, Knox Farm State Park offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and natural beauty. With open fields, wooden fences, tree-lined trails, and historic barns, this location is stunning year-round. It’s especially gorgeous in the fall when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold.

Best for: Rustic charm, wide open fields, golden hour sessions.

2. Amherst State Park – Amherst, NY

Nestled in the heart of the suburbs, Amherst State Park is a hidden gem with winding walking trails, a gently flowing creek, and a mix of wooded areas and open meadows. It offers beautiful natural light and quiet spots that are perfect for intimate family moments.

Best for: Natural trails, gentle creek views, peaceful woodland backdrops.

3. Mill Road Scenic Overlook – West Seneca, NY

Mill Road Creek Park, often referred to as the Mill Road Scenic Overlook, is a charming park in West Seneca that features beautiful wildflowers, long grasses, and panoramic sunset views from the creek. It’s a lesser-known location that gives your family session a private, peaceful setting.

Best for: Wide open landscapes, creek setting, wildflower meadows.

4. Tifft Nature Preserve – Buffalo, NY

Located minutes from the city center, Tifft Nature Preserve is an urban oasis with over 260 acres of preserved nature, boardwalks, marshes, and scenic trails. It’s ideal for adventurous families who love to explore the outdoors and want a more natural, earthy backdrop for their photos.

Best for: Boardwalks, marshland views, and nature lovers.

5. Woodlawn Beach State Park – Hamburg, NY

Woodlawn Beach State Park offers breathtaking lakefront views, sandy beaches, tall grasses, and driftwood textures that add something truly unique to your family portraits. Golden hour at the beach is simply magical, especially in summer.

Best for: Lake Erie views, beachy vibes, summer sunset sessions.

Ready to Book Your Family Portrait Session?

I’d love to help! I’m Sarah, the owner of Rosebud Studio of Photography. We are currently offering summer family sessions! Learn more or schedule your family session here: www.rosebudstudiosbuffalo.com