How exciting!! You’ve officially booked your session and are ready to search through photo locations! Whether it is a family, maternity, or engagement session all of these locations could be the perfect backdrop for this special occasion. I have listed a mix of urban and natural locations all within a 30 minute drive of Indianapolis.
COXHALL GARDENS
Coxhall Gardens is located in beautiful Carmel, IN and is one of my most photographed locations! It has become one of my favorite portrait locations because of the diversity of architecture and natural backgrounds. If you are interested in an architectural background there is a gorgeous brick mansion or a limestone amphitheater! For a more natural look there is a pond with a few willow trees and a beautiful wooded area closer to the mansion. I suggest entering off of Towne just north of the 116TH street round-a-bout. Once you are in the park, turn left and follow the road until you see a large parking lot on your left and a bridge on your right! Park there and we will meet at the beginning of the bridge!
THE CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
The Center for the Performing Arts is located in the heart of Carmel, IN. It perfectly captures the feel of this not-so-small city. The stunning architecture of the Palladium and the Tarkington can no longer be without the Carmichael hotel! Across 3rd Ave you will find a large retention pond and beautiful arbors lining the end of the sidewalks. This location is perfect for an elegant, upscale, or urban feel. It is steps away from the popular Cake Bake shop, as well as all the other amazing restaurants in Carmel. I suggest parking along Carter Green that circles the Carmel Christkindlmarkt in the winter.
NEWFIELDS
Newfields is located within the Indianapolis Arts Museum grounds in Indianapolis, IN close to the Meridian Kessler area. It is the perfect location for anyone who loves nature and desires for their portraits to look as if they are lost in a garden. Newfields also provides a lot of variety in backgrounds from the Lily House to the tucked-away bridges to the romantic arbors and various fountains. The only downside to this location is the $50 photography fee, but I believe it is well worth it! I suggest parking in the lot closest to the Michigan road entrance, as we will enter through the gate closest to the Garden Terrace.
BOTTLEWORKS HOTEL
The Bottleworks Hotel within the Bottleworks district in downtown Indianapolis is absolutely stunning! It has quickly become a favorite portrait location year round. It is a great option if you enjoy more of an architectural feel. Photos are not allowed to be taken inside any of the building, but we can explore the entire district. Parking can be found on the street for a small fee, depending on the day of the week.
INDIANA WAR MEMORIAL
The War Memorial Plaza is located in the heart of Indianapolis, IN. It is my favorite portrait location in Downtown Indy! The beautiful limestone War Memorial is the perfect backdrop for an architectural feel, while the upper level provides stunning views of the Indy skyline to fit an urban feel! Across the street you can find greenery that leads the way to a beautiful fountain and more memorials. This is also great access to the Indianapolis Public Library (Central) or State House, which are other gorgeous portrait locations to suite your downtown Indianapolis dream. Metered parking is readily available on E Vermont Street across from the Indiana War Memorial for about $5 or less.
HOLIDAY PARK
Holliday Park is located in Indianapolis, IN close to the Meridian Hills neighborhood! It is the perfect location for someone who dreams of a combination of nature and architecture. Holliday park has beautiful walking trails that are often lined with wild flowers. The Ruins have quickly become one of my favorite backdrops! It feels as if you are transported to Europe without having to leave Indiana! I suggest parking in the main parking lot across from the Ruins. There is not a convenient place to change, so if you would like to bring a second outfit please be prepared to change in your car. But don’t worry, I will be on look out duty!!
MACGEGOR PARK
MacGregor Park is located near Westfield, IN just off SR 38. My favorite portrait locations are right off the main entrance, so you will not need to walk far! This location is ideal for someone who adores nature and envisions trees or wild flowers as your background. I suggest parking in the main parking lot to the left of the entrance. We will meet under the covered picnic tables and explore from there!
POTTER’S BRIDGE
Potter’s Bridge is located in my hometown of Noblesville, IN! It is home to Hamilton County’s only covered bridge. This is my favorite location for fall portraits because of the beautiful foliage and Hallmark Movie worthy setting. Many families and couples have enjoyed utilizing the quiet road on the other side of the bridge. This location is has a small playground for children after the session. I suggest parking in the main parking lot and meeting me under the covered bridge!
FLAT FORK CREEK
Flat Fork Creek Park is located close to Geist in Fishers, IN. It is beautiful year-round! It is the perfect location if you are looking to bring your dog with you for the session! There is a large bridge that leads you directly to the fall foliage. I suggest parking in the main lot close to the covered picnic tables.
COOL CREEK PARK
Cool Creek Park is located in Carmel, IN. It is another perfect location if you are interested in a natural background. The park is filled with luscious trees and long walking paths. I suggest parking by the Wildflower Prarie and be prepared for longer walking durations than other locations!
Interested in seeing more full sessions? Here are a few of my favorites:
Bottleworks Indianapolis | Wells Family
Emma & Zach | Newfields Engagement
Warm Maternity Portraits at MacGregor Park in Westfield, IN | DuVall Family
Carmel Engagement Session at Coxhall Gardens | Shannon & Sam
