Embrace Florida's natural beauty
One of the questions I get asked most often is, "Where should we take our photos?" Luckily, Tallahassee is full of beautiful parks that offer everything from lush, blooming gardens and moss-covered oaks to open fields and scenic walking trails.
As a Tallahassee photographer, I've explored many of these locations and know how each one photographs throughout the year. Whether you're planning an engagement session, maternity photos, family portraits, graduation pictures, or simply want updated photos together, these are some of my favorite outdoor locations around the city.
Maclay Gardens
Best for: Engagements, maternity, couples, and timeless portraits
Maclay Gardens is one of Tallahassee's most iconic photography locations. The manicured gardens, historic brick pathways, towering oak trees, and seasonal blooms create an elegant backdrop that's beautiful year-round.
If you're looking for a classic, romantic feel with plenty of variety, this park is hard to beat.
Things to keep in mind:
- Entrance fee may apply.
- Spring blooms are especially beautiful.
- Weekday sessions tend to be less crowded.
Dorothy B. Oven
Best for: Couples, families, seniors, and maternity sessions
With charming gazebos, mature oak trees, and beautifully maintained landscaping, Dorothy B. Oven Park offers timeless Southern charm. It's an excellent choice if you're looking for a polished, elegant setting without venturing far from town.
The shaded pathways also make it a comfortable location during warmer months.
Things to keep in mind:
- Late November to early January, the park shifts into their evening holiday lights beginning at 5:30pm.
- The main house hosts events regularly and parking may be affected.
JR Alford Greenway
Best for: Couples, maternity, engagements, seniors, and families
J.R. Alford Greenway is one of Tallahassee's hidden gems for photography. With wide-open fields, rustic fences, winding trails, and beautiful oak trees, it offers a peaceful, natural setting that feels far removed from the city.
Golden hour transforms the tall grasses into a sea of warm light, making this one of my favorite locations for romantic couples, maternity sessions, and anyone who loves a more organic, earthy aesthetic.
Things to keep in mind:
- Free to visit.
- Best photographed about 1–2 hours before sunset.
- Some of the prettiest spots require a short walk.
- If the field is left long, it makes for pretty layering with the tall golden grass!
Wakulla Springs
Best for: Couples, engagements, maternity, branding, and nature-inspired portraits
If you're looking for a location that truly showcases the beauty of Old Florida, Wakulla Springs State Park checks nearly every box. From the cool spring waters and towering cypress trees to the historic lodge and lush greenery, every corner of the park feels timeless and cinematic year-round.
Whether we're wandering beneath the canopy of live oak trees, photographing along the spring, or capturing the golden light filtering through the forest, this location offers a peaceful setting that's unlike anywhere else in the Tallahassee area.
Things to keep in mind:
- Located about 30 minutes south of Tallahassee.
- State park entrance fee applies.
- Weekday evenings are typically less crowded.
- Wildlife, including birds, turtles, and the occasional manatee (during cooler months), can make your session even more memorable.
Extra Special Honorable Mentions
Cascades Park
If you're drawn to a more modern aesthetic, Cascades Park combines landscaped gardens, mature trees, unique architecture, fountains, and downtown views all in one location.
It's especially stunning during golden hour when the evening light reflects across the water and the city begins to glow.
St. Marks Wildlife Refuge
For those who love coastal scenery, marsh views, winding boardwalks, and dramatic sunsets, St. Marks provides one of the most unique landscapes in North Florida.
Plus, who doesn't love a lighthouse?
Lafayette Heritage Trail Park
If you love tall pines, wooden boardwalks, and a true North Florida landscape, this park is a hidden gem and located across the water from JR Alford Greenway.
It's especially beautiful for adventurous couples and maternity sessions.
Downtown Tallahassee or Thomasville
Right down the road or 35 minutes from Tallahassee, both locations offer historic storefronts, brick streets, charming alleyways, and cozy corners full of charm.
It's perfect for couples looking for a romantic backdrop.
Not sure which location fits your vision?
That's what I'm here for! I'll help you choose a spot that complements your style and creates images you'll love for years to come.
Have a place in mind that's a bit further away? I love to travel!
Another location that is sorely underrated is... your home. Think: playful family sessions in the backyard, cozy couples intertwined on the couch, sweet newborn nose kisses from the nursery entry. So many memories are made at home, so why not capture them as they are in a place where they come so naturally?
