The best places to take pictures in Columbus, Ohio
A non- comprehensive list of my favorite places to take family pictures in Columbus, Ohio
Your home and backyard
I will forever preach at home family photos. Think about it - this is the backdrop to all of your best memories. It’s where your kids are most comfortable (this is HUGE, especially if you’re worried about them not cooperating and/or feeling shy), where your partner is most comfortable, and where you have everything you need (snacks, water, bathroom, an extra shirt for when somebody falls in the mud).
Your neighborhood park and playground
If you’re feeling strongly against having pictures at home, let’s head to your neighborhood park or playground. This is another place where your kids will feel comfortable and where you’re making memories in your real life - a place of significance. I love visiting parks that have playgrounds - it’s a place kids are naturally drawn to and will bring out their best moods and good energy. I don’t like to do a lot of directing during my photo sessions, so having something to do that everyone enjoys makes all of our lives easier and leads to more authentic moments and genuine smiles.
The fields in Worthington
This park is down the street from my home and looks pretty spring through fall. I like it because it’s relatively quiet and I know the light very well and there’s a beautiful tree that kids can climb. It’s great for a shorter session like my Friday Mornings on Film.
Whetstone Park of Roses
One of two “big parks” that will make it onto the list. This is a favorite for evening sessions. I usually avoid the actual park of roses, but I love the trails that go through the woods and the native prairie that is near there. August through October there are beautiful goldenrods and sunflowers blooming that make a great setting for more formal portraits, and it’s typically quiet, especially on weekdays. It’s also fairly central so easy to get to from most areas of Columbus, and again, I’ve photographed so often there that I know the light inside and out, which is essential for good photographs.
Franklin Park Conservatory
This is my favorite “big park” for morning sessions. It’s quiet (at least in the mornings, which is when I use it), there’s a wide variety of settings to choose from (formal gardens, beautiful trees, playground), there’s parking and it’s easy to get to.
As I’ve said, this is a non-comprehensive list. I love urban settings as well, and most of the little suburban downtowns are awesome backdrops for creative and colorful photos. Getting donuts, ice cream, heading to the bookstore or cafe or farmers market - those are all great locations for family photos if they’re places your family actually visits in real life.
I’ve photographed all over most of Columbus by now, and what I’ve learned is that while location is important to the technical aspects of photography, what’s MOST important is that you’re with the people you love, connecting with them in ways you’ll want to remember, and capturing moments that feel authentic and true to your family.
