In the last two weeks of October, Southern Illinoisans and visitors alike are enamored by the scenery painted before them by the leaves changing to red, purple, orange, yellow, brown and bronze. We’re grateful for our lush diversity of 250 tree species thriving here in Southern Illinois that make this breathtaking fall palette possible.

Fall is easily the best time for family photos. October in Southern Illinois is truly sweater-weather, so you don’t have to worry about your family being uncomfortably hot or cold. We love that our properties are smartly decorated to be photo-friendly as well as located near hidden scenic gems our talented local photographers love to take families to photograph. A few well-respected and loved local photographers are Nina Wilson Photography, Alanna Milby Photography, Boulder Creek Photography, and Stephanie Susie Photography. Book with any of these photographers and you will be so happy you did!

Photo-ready homes for large families:

For a family photoshoot in a big home with plenty of space for every to run around in while enjoying some diverse backgrounds onsite, we suggest Sunset Bay Cabin, Oasis on Lake of Egypt, and The Premier Cabin. These properties are also situated near Shawnee National Forest, Fern Clyffe, and Giant City State Park, which all make for amazing pictures as well as fantastic places to see the leaves change.

Photo-ready homes best for couples and solo travelers:

If you’re looking for engagement photos or branding photos for your website our Dam Near Lake of Egypt Cabins are beautifully designed, and located near the amazing natural backdrops the aforementioned photographers will suggest for you. They’re also just minutes away from the Marion Square which is home to new colorful murals, Crown Brew Coffee (amazing photoshoot location), and great restaurants.

We hope you have the best stay in Southern Illinois. We hope it’s full of amazing scenery, cozy sweaters, and pumpkin spice lattes!

View our entire list of vacation properties in Southern Illinois website – www.sivr.rentals.

Safe Travels!