The Best Photo Shoot Locations for Every Season in the Twin Cities

As all Minnesotans know, the weather is a very important topic for us. It’s a part of our culture. Our every day conversation. And with a variety of weather and with every new season, we’re provided with a new, amazing, ever-changing backdrop for each and every photo shoot.

No matter your vision, together, we can find the best location for your next photo session. Looking for a polished downtown feel? Maybe a casual frolic in a field? Or maybe a hike along the river?

Minnesota boasts unique architecture and incredible nature so whether you’re a big family looking for a lot of space to run or a flower-loving, flowy-dress-wearing queen, I’m here to make your dream session a reality, no matter the season.

So without further ado, I present my very favorite, and dare I say, the best photo shoot locations for every season in the Twin Cities.

Summer

Meadowlands Park (Fridley, MN)

Summer in Minnesota is The. Best. Ever. There’s a reason we all put up with the cold for soooo many months of the year. Meadowlands Park is my go to spot in summer (and really, all year long!). It’s small enough that it’s never busy, has lots of natural variety and is easy to park and navigate.

Mississippi River (Twin Cities, Minnesota)

We can capture the beauty of the Great Mississippi River no matter your level of adventure. We can explore along the river bank near Fridley, like Molly and Alex did at their sunset engagement session. Downtown St. Paul has gorgeous walking paths along the river. And of course, we can venture to St. Anthony Main and capture an epic sunset overlooking the Minneapolis skyline like Elizabeth and Andrew’s engagement session.

Fall

Silverwood Park (St. Anthony, MN)

I have a love/hate relationship with fall. It is absolutely gorgeous, cozy, comfortable but it also signals the end of summer and the cold to come. However, I can’t deny the vibrant colors that fall brings and Silverwood Park in St. Anthony, MN never disappoints. Silverwood Park is a great option for those chasing the fall leaves and the colors last into November for those last minute Christmas card photos.

Irvine Park (St. Paul, MN)

A hidden little park in the middle of the city. Irvine Park is another place that I’ve shot countless times and in every season. The giant fountain in the center of the park offers a unique architectural piece, lots of space, colors, and variety in this tiny but historic city park.

Winter

Hansen Tree Farm (Anoka, MN)

A short drive north, the very popular and very beautiful, Hansen Tree Farm is a must for your winter session. I’ve made it clear that I’m not the biggest fan of the winter, but we live where we live and I have to come to terms with that! Hansen Tree Farm provides acres of Christmas Trees to give us green in the winter and the perfect Christmas card backdrop

Let’s Move Indoors!

Who says we have to embrace the winter cold – let’s just go inside! Options are endless for indoor photo session locations-coffee shops, breweries, rent a studio space, churches, or even your own home! Note that some indoor spaces have restrictions or fees to photograph there, but we’ll find a place that is perfect and in budget.

Spring

Muriel Sahlin Arboretum (Roseville, MN)

Muriel Sahlin Arboretum is a hidden gem within the massive Roseville, MN Central Park. Boasting so much variety and always the best light, this is a go-to for me every season. The landscaping and fountain make this a perfect place for those looking for a pop of color and spring flowers for their session.

Como Zoo & Conservatory (St. Paul, MN)

Finally, Como Zoo & Conservatory and the Como Lake across the street are all excellent options for your next session. Unique architecture, blooming trees in the spring, and a lake to explore. Como Park in St. Paul is a perfect option for spring and every season!

And there you have it, the best photo shoot locations in the Twin Cities! Have some spots you’d add to the list? Although I have explored many parks, buildings, and trails throughout this great state, I’m always ready to check out a new location!

Ready to schedule your family photo shoot or engagement session? Reach out to schedule your session and we’ll work together to find a location that is beautiful, convenient, meaningful, and of course the very best for any season!