This post was originally published in 2022 and updated in 2025 with fresh tips, new favorite locations, and the latest insights from my family photography sessions. Whether you’re planning a spring, summer, fall, or winter shoot, you’ll find inspiration here for creating timeless family photos across Minnesota.
It’s time to start thinking about family photos! Whether you’re planning ahead for holiday cards, celebrating a milestone, or just want to capture your family’s unique connection, now is the perfect moment to plan a session. As a Minnesota family photographer, I know how important it is to pick the right location — one that feels beautiful, relaxed, and lets everyone’s personality shine.
Before we dive into my favorite spots, I want to share a few helpful tips to make your family photo session smooth and fun:
Tips for a Stress-Free, Beautiful Family Photo Session
Choose a meaningful location.
Think about spots that reflect your family’s personality — maybe it’s where you love to walk together, a garden you visit often, or a favorite part of your town. A meaningful backdrop adds emotional depth to your images.Plan your outfits thoughtfully.
Coordinate your colors without being too matchy-matchy. Soft neutrals, earthy tones, or complementary shades photograph beautifully in outdoor settings. Layers, textures, and accessories like scarves or hats can add interest.Time it right.
The best light usually happens during the “golden hour” — shortly after sunrise or just before sunset. This soft, flattering light will give your photos a warm, dreamy glow.Pack essentials.
Snacks, water, wipes, and maybe a small favorite toy can make a huge difference, especially with little ones. Happy kids = happy photos!Relax and have fun.
The most meaningful photos often come from candid, unscripted moments. Don’t stress over perfection — focus on enjoying time with your family, and the magic will follow.
Where to Take Family Photos in Minnesota
Minnesota has no shortage of beautiful backdrops for family photos — from sweeping natural landscapes to historic urban spots full of character. As a photographer, I’ve explored so many corners of this gorgeous state, and I’m always amazed at how the right location can elevate a session and help families feel comfortable and connected.
Whether you’re drawn to nature, architecture, or small-town charm, there’s a perfect place waiting for your family. Below, I’m sharing some of my favorite Minnesota locations for family photo sessions — along with tips on what makes each one special. These are places where laughter, love, and little moments unfold beautifully on camera.
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
This iconic spot is one of my favorite places for playful, modern family portraits. The vibrant sculptures, open green space, and famous Spoonbridge and Cherry offer so much variety in one location. Kids love exploring here, and parents love the creative, artful backdrop. Mornings are best to avoid crowds and catch that dreamy soft light.Mississippi Delta & Interpretive Center
For families who love a nature-filled session, this hidden gem is perfect. With peaceful trails, wide-open spaces, and an outdoor amphitheater, it’s ideal for relaxed, organic photos where kids can roam and play. Bring comfy shoes and be ready for some light exploring — it’s one of those places where beautiful moments unfold naturally.St. Paul Cathedral
Looking for a little grandeur? The St. Paul Cathedral offers stunning architecture and a timeless backdrop for elegant family portraits. The steps, arches, and gardens nearby work beautifully in both color and black-and-white images. This is a gorgeous spot in fall, when the surrounding trees are bursting with color.Saint Anthony Falls + Stone Arch Bridge
If you want an urban edge with a dose of Minnesota history, you can’t beat Saint Anthony Falls. Between the dramatic river views, the Stone Arch Bridge, and the old mill ruins, this area is packed with character. Weekdays or early mornings are best to skip the crowds and catch the gorgeous river light.
Como Park
This park is full of architectural treasures, and its lakefront is a popular spot for summer picnics and ice skating. The park’s rose garden is a popular spot for wedding ceremonies, and the Japanese Friendship Garden is dedicated to the friendship between the United States and Japan. Make sure to inquire with the park first as permits are needed for photography sessions.
Theodore Wirth Scenic Drive
This drive is named for the architect who designed iconic skyscrapers like the Minnesota State Capitol and the Phoenix Hotel. Scenic drives are great for scenic shots of the countryside, but Theodore Wirth Drive also has some great photo spots.
Alexander Ramsey House & Gandy Dancer Statue
I love this St. Paul spot for families who want something a little different. The Victorian architecture of the Ramsey House adds elegance, while the whimsical Gandy Dancer statue nearby is fun and playful — perfect for little ones. It’s a great mix of formal and quirky!
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
The Arboretum is pure magic. With gardens, winding paths, quiet ponds, and changing seasonal beauty, it’s one of the most versatile and photogenic places around. Spring flowers, summer greenery, fall colors — every season offers something special here. It’s worth noting you may need to plan ahead for permits or entrance fees, but it’s absolutely worth it.
Lyndale Peace Garden and Rose Garden
This is a beautiful garden located across the street from Lake Harriet. This spot is very popular for weddings and family photos. If it is too busy in the Peace Garden, you can head across the street and take amazing photos in the rose garden. Either area that you choose, you will still receive a beautiful setting for your family photos. Make sure to package a picnic so when you are down with your photos, you can head the lake and enjoy lunch and some sun.
Wabasha-Kellogg Mills Trailway State Trail
This trail follows the route of the Wabasha and the Kellogg Paper Mill’s ownership of the river. The forest along the route is full of great photo spots, and the trail is a great spot for hiking as well.
Minnesota’s Parks and Forests
If you’re looking for a spot with a little more adventure, explore Minnesota’s parks and forests. Many of the parks have hiking trails and lakes where you can get the outdoors in while you take family photos. The state’s forests are full of hiking trails, and they’re great for scenic shots of the trees and mountains. Many of the forest trails also end in a lake where you can get the family in the water for their photos.
No matter where you decide to go for your family photos, you’ll be sure to have a magical time together. From historic sites and stunning natural landscapes to charming lakeside towns and vibrant city centers, there are so many great photo opportunities in Minnesota. You won’t want to miss out on any of them! From famous attractions to quiet retreats, Minnesota has a photo shoot for every family. So get out there and start capturing those memories today!
Bonus Tips for Parents Before Photo Day
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Bring a cozy blanket to sit on — it adds a sweet texture to photos and keeps everyone comfy.
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Let kids be themselves! Some of the best shots come from letting kids explore, laugh, and be playful.
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Trust your photographer (me!) to guide you — we’ll combine gentle posing with lots of candid moments for a gallery that feels natural and real.
Let’s Make Beautiful Memories Together
No matter which Minnesota location you choose, the most important part of your family photo session is capturing the love, connection, and little in-between moments that make your family unique. Whether we’re chasing the golden light in a garden, exploring trails with the kids, or laughing together downtown, I’m here to help you create images you’ll cherish for years to come. If you’re ready to start planning your session, I’d love to hear from you — let’s make some magic together!
