One of the hardest decisions for some people is figuring out WHERE to take your portraits. You may be a client, or you may be a fellow photographer googling for ideas. I made this list for everyone to benefit from. These locations aren’t secret, but they are pretty darn good.
I am biased - this list is featuring some of my personal favorites. Some are very popular and often-used locations, for good reason! Regardless of how popular the location is, your pictures will be unique and special because they feature YOU!
Family Silhouette Portrait at Trexler Nature Preserve
1. Trexler Nature Preserve
I have to be honest and say that this is my FAVORITE and most-shot-at location. Being from Colorado originally, this is most convenient location that reminds me (in a small way) of being out West.
If its a clear day, there’s unobstructed sunshine for golden hour! That isn’t always true of the other spots on this list. But even on a cloudy day, this location has a magical feeling about it.
Bonus Picture: the Preserve looks beautiful in winter, too!
2. Lock Ridge Park
This is a great location for those who want nature plus historic architecture, with a dash of urban flair.
Back in the day, Lock Ridge Park was an iron furnace. Now all that is left are some stone wall ruins, a small footbridge, and a lovely field that features beautiful “bluebells” (Grape Hyacinths) for about 1 week each April.
Back when I used to photograph more High School Seniors, this location was a super popular choice because there are so many features to lean or sit on. Lock Ridge really is so unique in the amount of different of backdrops. Such variety, all at one spot!
The beautiful flowers are temporary and not guaranteed, but this location has so much going for it during any season! You can’t lose, here.
3. Malcom Gross Rose Garden
This is a lovely little spot, whether there are flowers blooming or not. This park features many rose bushes, but also has a stream with a bridge and beautiful willow trees. This park can be quite busy if the weather is nice, but if you are patient you can get some beautiful portraits without people in the background. Just be mindful of blocking the paths!
4. Trexler Memorial Park
This is a lovely location, as long as you don’t mind a bit of a walk. The best spots for pictures (in my opinion) are some flat, grassy, tree-lined fields that are about half a mile from the parking lot.
This park is the place where I’ve seen the fewest amount of photographers, as it is more of an exercise destination for taking a good walk or bike ride.
These fields, with their tall grasses and the sunlight filtering through the trees, make for a very peaceful and classic portrait spot.
5. Your house!
Perhaps the most unique location, because it is perfectly tailored to you. Wherever you live!
You may feel more comfortable at home, or you are going through a big milestone that you want to commemorate. Or you just want to capture what a slow afternoon at home looks like.
The benefit of your home as a location is that it works no matter the weather!
Whether you own a hobby farm or rent an apartment, your space is special because that’s where your life is lived and your memories are made daily.
(see more from this family farm session here!)
If you’ve booked a session with me, we’ll discuss your vision and ideas for your session, and find the perfect location together.
Interested in booking your own portrait session at one of these picturesque locations? Contact me here!
Family portrait at Lock RIdge Park, Alburtis