⚜︎ Where should we take photos?


Ah yes… probably one of the biggest questions I get asked: “But where are we supposed to take our photos?”

And honestly? I get it.


Sometimes figuring out where to take photos can feel way more overwhelming than people expect. There are so many options, so many vibes, and somehow Pinterest suddenly has everyone questioning if they need a rooftop, a field, a coffee shop, and a horse all in the same session 😂


The good news? You absolutely do not have to have it all figured out.

Whether you’re envisioning romantic downtown city vibes, dramatic architecture, cozy coffee shop moments, quiet sunset views, nature, rooftops, open fields, or somewhere completely unique to your story, there are so many beautiful options around Missouri and Southern Illinois.


So, I put together a little guide of some of my favorite locations to help inspire you. First listing MO locations and then IL. Some are romantic and editorial. Some are cozy and casual. Some are dramatic. Some are simple. And some are just fun.


The biggest thing I always tell my clients:


Pick somewhere that feels like you.


Your photos should feel like your dynamic, not just a random pretty background. And if you still have absolutely no clue where to start after reading this? No stress. I’m always happy to help narrow things down based on the vibe you’re going for, outfit ideas, season, lighting, and what feels most like your story.


Now let’s find your perfect backdrop!

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࿇ Missouri Locations ࿇

⚜︎ downtown St. Louis


Vibe:

Editorial ✦ Romantic ✦ City ✦ Dressy ✦ Fun ✦ Date Night Energy


Best For:

Engagements, couples, seniors, maternity, branding, or honestly anyone wanting a little extra personality and city charm in their photos.


Why I Love It:

If you love city lights, architecture, rooftops, cozy little corners, or a more dressed-up and editorial feel, downtown St. Louis is such a fun option.


One of my favorite things about downtown is the variety. We can go romantic and dramatic with skyline views, wander city streets, stop near iconic architecture, grab coffee, browse records, or lean into something that feels more like your favorite kind of date night. Want rooftop views with the Arch in the background? Absolutely. Obsessed with the idea of cute coffee shop photos? Let’s do it. Love a moodier, more cinematic vibe near historic buildings or the Fox Theatre? Even some fun at the zoo, I’m already here for it.


This location category works especially well if you want photos that feel a little elevated, playful, modern, or uniquely you.


Good To Know:

Downtown sessions usually work best later in the day for softer lighting and cooler temperatures (plus city lights just hit different). Some indoor locations may require prior approval or permission beforehand, but don’t worry, we’ll always plan ahead together.

Couple walking hand in hand near the St. Louis Gateway Arch and Old Courthouse on a rainy day. Engagement Downtown St. Louis MO
Young woman in a colorblock jacket and flare jeans sits on stairs inside a vintage record shop. Downtown St. Louis MO
Teenage boy gazing up at marine life through a curved aquarium tunnel wall in dim blue light.
Couple sitting close together outside Ballpark Pizza restaurant under colorful neon lights. Engagement Downtown St. Louis MO
Black and white double-exposure portrait of a tattooed woman and bearded man in pinstripe suit outdoors. Downtown St. Louis MO
Young woman in a colorblock jacket stands between rows of vinyl records in a cozy record store. Downtown St. Louis MO
Couple in black outfits sharing a romantic moment on a rooftop with the St. Louis Gateway Arch in the background. Downtown St. Louis MO
Smiling teen with arms crossed stands on a vine-covered suspension bridge under dramatic cloudy skies.
Young woman in a red dress poses under the glowing marquee of the iconic Fox Theatre at dusk. Fox Theater St. Louis MO
Rear view of young man in gray shirt walking through an underwater aquarium tunnel with other visitors.
Black and white photo of a joyful couple running hand in hand on a city bridge. Downtown St. Louis MO
Young woman sitting outside The Record Exchange store beneath a glowing neon sign at night. Downtown St. Louis MO
Couple sharing a romantic moment near the St. Louis Gateway Arch fountain on a cloudy day. Engagement Downtown St. Louis MO
Young woman in a brown jacket and flare jeans sits pensively surrounded by colorful vinyl records on a wall. Downtown St. Louis MO
Young woman in a red and brown jacket crouches on a checkered floor between shelves of vinyl records. Downtown St. Louis MO
Smiling young woman in houndstooth sweater and flare jeans poses on a brick pathway outside a classic red brick building. St. Louis MO
Young woman in a red dress and heels walks across a city street at twilight near a lit urban storefront. Fox Theater St. Louis MO
Young woman in houndstooth sweater and flare jeans walks confidently along a tree-lined city sidewalk in autumn. Fox Theater St. Louis MO
Young woman holding a red vinyl record in front of her face inside a record store. Downtown St. Louis MO
Stylish couple embracing on a rooftop railing surrounded by city skyscrapers in warm sunlight. Downtown St. Louis MO
Close-up of couple holding hands raised against a clear blue sky with urban skyscrapers in the background. Downtown St. Louis MO
Couple kissing beside a Harley-Davidson motorcycle at night with the St. Louis Gateway Arch illuminated behind them. Downtown St. Louis MO
Romantic couple embracing and reflected in a glass window with an EXIT sign and city lights at dusk. Downtown St. Louis MO
Young man in navy polo shirt standing confidently before tall bamboo stalks in a lush green forest.
Young woman in a red puff-sleeve dress and Converse sneakers poses before an ornate black and gold metal gate. Fox Theater St. Louis MO
Young woman in colorful checkered sweater and jeans smiles while leaning against a manicured hedge in an urban park. St. Louis MO
Couple sharing a passionate kiss under a concrete overpass in an urban parking structure setting. Downtown St. Louis MO
Couple dressed in black sharing a kiss on a rooftop with city skyscrapers under a blue sky. Downtown St. Louis MO
Couple sharing a tender moment leaning against a Harley-Davidson motorcycle on a rooftop with city buildings. Downtown St. Louis MO
01 / 29

⚜︎ tower grove park


Vibe:

Romantic ✦ Nature ✦ Historic ✦ Soft ✦ Versatile


Best For:

Couples, engagements, families, maternity, seniors, and honestly just about anyone wanting greenery with lots of variety.


Why I Love It:

If you’re someone who loves nature but still wants a little character and variety in your photos, Tower Grove Park is one of my favorite go-to locations.


Between the tree lined paths, historic architecture, open fields, bridges, stone details, little tucked-away corners, and seasonal greenery, it gives us so many different looks without needing multiple locations. One of my favorite things about Tower Grove is how versatile it is. We can keep things romantic and dreamy, playful and fun, cozy and casual, or even a little more dressed up and editorial depending on your vibe. It photographs beautifully in every season too, which makes it a solid option year-round.


Good To Know:

Tower Grove can get busy during weekends and peak seasons, especially when the weather is nice. I usually recommend evenings for softer lighting (because yes… sunset is my love language 😂), and comfy shoes are always a good idea since there’s usually a little walking involved.

Romantic couple kissing under weeping willow branches, woman with tattoo on arm, soft natural light. Engagement Tower Grove Park St. Louis M
Black and white photo of family of three walking hand in hand in front of columned building. Engagement Tower Grove Park St. Louis MO
Smiling brother and sister sitting together among blooming daffodils in a garden.
Smiling couple embracing in front of blooming pink magnolia tree, woman in blue floral top. Engagement Tower Grove Park St. Louis MO
Couple standing face to face under large magnolia tree outside columned building, fall season. Engagement Tower Grove Park St. Louis MO
Happy couple walking hand in hand through a sunlit green park, woman in flowing sage green dress. Engagement Tower Grove Park St. Louis MO
Happy family with two young children playing among colorful tulips in a garden.
Couple sitting on steps of classical columned building at sunset, woman in sage green dress. Engagement Tower Grove Park St. Louis MO
Couple dancing and holding hands raised under columned pavilion in golden sunset light. Engagement Tower Grove Park St. Louis MO
Young boy hugging his little sister under weeping willow branches in a lush green park.
Couple embracing outdoors at golden hour, amid autumn trees. Engagement Tower Grove Park St. Louis MO
Black and white photo of a young boy and girl dancing together in an open park.
Family of three smiling together outdoors near stone balustrade, dressed in blue and white tones. Engagement Tower Grove Park St. Louis MO
Family of four walking together on a tree-lined path with children leading the way.
Couple embracing under a large tree in a garden, woman in sage green maxi dress, golden hour light. Engagement Tower Grove Park St. Louis MO
Joyful couple embracing in autumn park with golden sunflare, woman in green dress with red hair. Engagement Tower Grove Park St. Louis MO
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⚜︎ Old Appleton Bridge


Vibe:

Rustic ✦ Romantic ✦ Historic ✦ Moody ✦ Small Town Charm


Best For:

Couples, engagements, seniors, maternity, and anyone wanting something that feels a little quieter, water, unique, and full of character .


Why I Love It:

If old bridges, small-town charm, nature, and a little bit of history are your thing — Old Appleton Bridge is such a hidden gem.


There’s something about this location that feels cozy and nostalgic in the best way. Between the historic bridge, natural surroundings, open space, and quieter atmosphere, it gives photos a really timeless feel without trying too hard. This spot works beautifully whether you’re wanting something romantic and dressed up or casual and laid back. It has enough texture and character to feel interesting while still letting the people in the photos be the main focus. It’s especially pretty during golden hour (because apparently I’ll always recommend sunset 😂), when everything gets that soft glowy light.


Good To Know:

This location is a little more relaxed and nature-focused, so comfy shoes are always a good idea depending on where we’re walking. Lighting here is especially beautiful later in the evening.

Smiling toddler girl in a cream dress walking on a wooden bridge with older brother behind her.
Couple dancing joyfully in a sunlit meadow, man spinning woman in green dress at golden hour. Engagement Photos St. Louis MO
Young man standing in autumn field tossing leaves into the air with colorful red foliage and rustic barn behind him.
Couple sharing a romantic moment in a wildflower meadow with yellow blooms, man kissing woman as she looks up smiling. Engagement St. Louis
Mother and son sharing a joyful moment at golden sunset in an autumn forest, both laughing warmly.
Couple holding hands walking through tall wildflower field at sunset, smiling at each other under a dramatic sky. Engagement St. Louis MO
Romantic couple relaxing in a sunlit meadow at sunset, woman resting her head on man's lap. Engagement photos. St. Louis MO
Couple sitting barefoot together on sandy riverbank near a historic bridge surrounded by lush green trees. Engagement Photos St. Louis MO
Two young siblings sitting on rocks in front of a waterfall, smiling in autumn sunlight.
Man carrying smiling woman in a floral dress through a golden sunlit field at sunset. Engagement photos St. Louis MO
Tattooed dark-haired woman with yellow flower in hair lovingly embracing young boy outdoors at golden sunset. St. Louis MO
Family of four standing on rocks by a scenic waterfall and bridge in soft autumn light.
Happy family of four posing in a golden autumn field at sunset near a rustic barn.
Couple sharing a romantic kiss near a red bridge waterfall at sunset, man with tattoos and blue cap. Engagement photos St. Louis MO
Father carrying son on back while mother leans in for a kiss during a glowing golden sunset outdoors.
Mother sitting in a golden field at sunset, laughing with her two young children playing around her.
Family of three posing by a scenic waterfall and red bridge at golden hour in autumn landscape.
Close-up of a smiling redhead mother holding her blue-eyed toddler in warm golden light.
Couple relaxing in sunlit green meadow, woman sitting over man lying in grass, sharing a tender moment. Engagement Photos St. Louis MO
Smiling woman with dark hair and tattoos holds yellow daisy to her cheek while he gazes at her outdoors. Engagement Photos St. Louis MO
Man giving woman a piggyback ride in sunny green field, both laughing joyfully at golden hour. Engagement Photos St. Louis MO
Couple holding hands walking through lush green meadow, man in cap and woman in floral dress surrounded by tall grass. Engagement St. Louis
Family of three walking hand-in-hand across a red iron bridge surrounded by autumn foliage.
Couple embracing at golden hour in a field, man kissing woman's head while she smiles with eyes closed. Engagement photos St. Louis MO
01 / 24

⚜︎ Jackson city park


Vibe:

Classic park setting, open greenery, timeless, relaxed, possible creek or water access, and versatile.


Best For:

Families, couples, maternity, seniors, playful kid sessions, and anyone wanting a natural outdoor backdrop without hiking trails or anything overly complicated.


Why I Love It:

Jackson Park is one of those locations that truly works for just about everyone. It has beautiful trees, open green spaces, walking paths, and enough variety that your session can feel relaxed while still giving us multiple different looks in one location. For families, it’s especially fun because kids actually have room to move, play, and just be themselves (which always makes for the sweetest candid moments). For couples or maternity sessions, it gives that soft, timeless greenery or rocky creek vibe without feeling too “woodsy” or overwhelming.


It’s simple in the best way, clean backgrounds, pretty light, and a location that photographs beautifully during multiple seasons.


A Few Things to Keep in Mind:

Jackson Park works beautifully during golden hour, but because it’s an open park, summer sessions can get warm earlier in the evening. Comfortable shoes are always a plus, especially if we’re wandering around to hit a few different spots throughout the park.


Couple embracing and kissing under street lights at night, woman lifted off ground in white boots.
Family walks through green color powder cloud during festive outdoor color run charity event in park.
Two siblings pose back-to-back in autumn park with golden fall foliage in warm natural light.
Couple holding hands and walking on a path surrounded by colorful autumn foliage in a park.
Joyful group participates in color run, with person in wheelchair covered in pink powder, smiling outdoors.
Large crowd in white t-shirts walks through colorful balloon arch at outdoor charity color run event on sunny day.
Happy family of four poses together near rocky creek in colorful autumn park during fall season.
Couple posing by a creek in autumn, woman in red dress and white boots, man in plaid shirt and vest.
Man hugging woman from behind near a creek, both smiling, wearing casual fall outfits in a park.
Curly-haired girl in blue floral dress carefully walking barefoot on rocks beside a shallow creek.
Young barefoot girl in a blue floral dress standing on rocks beside a shallow creek in a park.
Two women share a joyful moment laughing together under golden autumn trees in a sunny park.
Close-up portrait of a young girl with curly brown hair wearing a blue floral dress outdoors.
Excited child runs through green color powder tunnel during outdoor color run race event in summer park.
Smiling woman hugs teenage boy from behind in warm golden autumn park setting outdoors.
Young girl in blue floral dress standing on rocks near a large tree in a lush green park.
Adorable curly-haired toddler in a blue floral dress sitting on a swing at an outdoor playground.
Couple smiling together under a large autumn tree with fallen leaves and a black dog beside them.
Couple sharing a romantic kiss outdoors at golden hour, man in plaid shirt and vest, woman in red dress.
01 / 19

⚜︎ Dennis scivally park


Vibe:

Open fields, soft golden light, tall grass, dreamy sunsets, and a little bit of countryside charm.


Best For:

Couples, engagements, families, maternity, seniors, and anyone wanting that warm, outdoorsy feel without having to hike or go too far off the beaten path.


Why I Love It:

Dennis Scivally Park is one of my favorite spots when you want that soft, glowy, “running through a field at golden hour” kind of feeling. The open space gives us beautiful light, especially closer to sunset, and there’s enough variety to create images that feel relaxed, natural, and full of movement. If you love warm tones, pretty skies, and photos that feel a little romantic and effortless, this location photographs beautifully. It also tends to work really well for kids because there’s room to move around, explore, and just be themselves without feeling super posed.


One of my favorite things about this spot is how different it can look depending on the season, from vibrant greens to warm golden tones later in the year.


A Few Things to Keep in Mind:

This location definitely shines during golden hour (that last hour before sunset), so timing matters here! Since it’s more open, it can get warm in the summer and occasionally a little breezy, which honestly can make for some really pretty movement in dresses and hair.


Comfortable shoes are always a good idea if we’re walking around to explore different areas of the park.


Smiling family of three poses together near stone bridge surrounded by lush autumn foliage at sunset.
Tender moment of a mother kissing her baby girl on the cheek in a warm autumn outdoor setting.
A pregnant woman in a beige dress leans on her partner among tall trees in golden autumn light.
Family walking together in a sunny autumn park, two young children holding hands with adults and grandmother.
Curious toddler in green hoodie crouches to explore fallen leaves near stone bridge in autumn park.
Family of four posing on a fall park path, father kneeling with baby while mother and toddler stand behind.
A multigenerational family laughs joyfully together outdoors on a sunny day in the park.
Couple sharing a romantic moment on a stone wall in an autumn park, woman in rust sweater embracing bearded man.
Young family of four posing on a park path surrounded by vibrant red fall foliage, parents holding two children.
A mother and young child share a tender nose-to-nose moment outdoors in warm autumn light.
Mother in elegant green off-shoulder dress holding hands with young son on stone steps in autumn forest.
A pregnant woman in a beige gown leans against a stone bridge wall bathed in golden sunset light.
A happy interracial family of three shares a joyful moment together on a green lawn at sunset.
A couple sits on a stone wall in an autumn park, man embracing pregnant woman from behind.
Smiling mother in green dress crouching with toddler son and baby daughter on a sunlit autumn park path.
A young family of three holds hands standing before a stone bridge in an autumn park.
A pregnant woman in a form-fitting beige dress leans against a stone wall in golden autumn light.
A pregnant woman in a beige gown poses gracefully before a stone bridge amid vibrant fall foliage.
Family of four admiring a rustic stone arch bridge over a creek surrounded by fallen autumn leaves.
01 / 19

⚜︎ honorable mentions

Other locations I love to use in the MO area:

Forest Park - STL ⚜︎ st. Mary of the barrens - national shrine - perryville ⚜︎ cape rock park - cape girardeau ⚜︎ Bollinger mill state historic site - Buford ⚜︎ pickle springs - new offenburg ⚜︎



࿇ Illinois locations ࿇

⚜︎ alto pass - cliff view park


Vibe:

Scenic overlooks, dramatic views, adventurous, romantic, and sunset magic.


Best For:

Couples, engagements, maternity, seniors, and anyone wanting a more adventurous or scenic backdrop with beautiful views.


Why I Love It:

If you’re someone who loves big views, sunsets, and a location that feels a little more adventurous, Alto Pass Cliff View Park is such a beautiful option.


This spot has some of the prettiest overlook views in Southern Illinois and gives sessions a totally different feel than your typical park location. It feels open, romantic, and just a little dramatic in the best way, especially as the sun starts to set. It’s the kind of place that photographs beautifully if you’re envisioning something a little moodier, more nature-focused, or simply want a backdrop that feels unique and scenic.


Whether you’re wanting something romantic and dressed up or more laid back and casual, this location photographs beautifully and gives us a lot of natural beauty without needing a ton of extra “stuff” around us.


A Few Things to Keep in Mind:

This location definitely shines around sunset (shocking, I know 😂). Since it’s more open and scenic, weather and lighting matter here a little more than some other spots. Depending on where we wander, comfortable shoes are always a good idea.

Bride and groom share a romantic moment against a dramatic rocky cliff beside a white birch tree. St Louis MO
Couple sharing a kiss between dramatic rock formations on stone steps outdoors.
A bride and groom share a romantic kiss while seated on rocks in a golden outdoor setting. St. Louis MO
Black and white photo of laughing couple sitting together in a forest setting.
Couple nearly kissing at golden sunset with warm backlight filtering through trees.
Man spinning woman on a rocky overlook at sunset with colorful fall forest below.
Bride in white gown and groom hold hands while exploring a scenic rocky woodland trail. St Louis MO
Couple embracing warmly in a sunlit autumn forest, woman smiling brightly.
Bride in white gown resting against groom among trees and rocks in spring forest. St Louis MO
Couple sharing a tender moment on a porch at golden hour with bare trees behind.
Groom dips bride for a romantic kiss on a rocky cliff with fall foliage backdrop. St Louis MO
Bride and groom releasing a white dove on a rocky overlook surrounded by autumn trees. St. Louis MO
Close-up of groom embracing tattooed bride in a deep V-neck lace wedding dress. St Louis MO
Bride and groom embracing on a rocky overlook with a sweeping forested mountain view at dusk. St. Louis MO
01 / 14

⚜︎ trail of tears state forest - Jonesboro


Vibe:

Woodsy ✦ Adventurous ✦ Peaceful ✦ Moody ✦ Nature-Focused


Best For:

Couples, engagements, maternity, seniors, adventurous families, and anyone wanting a more natural, tucked-away feel.


Why I Love It:

If you love the idea of being surrounded by nature, tall trees, quiet trails, and a location that feels peaceful and a little adventurous, Trail of Tears State Forest is such a beautiful option. This location feels a little moodier and more tucked away than a traditional park, which makes it perfect if you’re wanting something that feels organic, earthy, and relaxed. Between the wooded areas, changing seasons, and natural scenery, it photographs beautifully year-round and can feel completely different depending on the time of year. It’s especially pretty if you’re someone who loves a cozy, outdoorsy feel or wants photos that feel a little less “perfectly polished” and a little more natural and storytelling-focused.


Whether you’re dressing things up or keeping it casual, this location has a way of making sessions feel relaxed, intimate, and full of personality.


A Few Things to Keep in Mind:

Because this is a more nature-focused location, comfy shoes are definitely recommended depending on where we decide to explore. Lighting matters here too — evenings usually photograph beautifully with softer light filtering through the trees.

Happy family of four walking on a leaf-covered forest path in fall, with pregnant mother in burgundy dress holding child's hand.
Smiling blonde mother in denim jacket embraces her young son in a field at sunset.
Woman with pink nails and engagement ring rests her hand on a bearded mans chest.
Eerie Halloween photo of two figures with jack-o-lantern heads holding hands on a dark forest path near a cabin.
Bearded man and blonde woman share a tender almost-kiss in a sun-drenched autumn field.
Black and white photo of two young siblings holding hands outdoors, smiling girl in floral top and boy in plaid shirt.
Young boy hugs his baby sister on a wooden bridge as family laughs behind them.
Couple embracing on a wooden bridge in autumn forest, man hugging woman in rust orange sweater dress while she laughs joyfully.
Laughing boy rides on his tattooed fathers shoulders outdoors in a park during golden hour.
Couple holds hands walking toward a pine forest in a golden field at sunset.
Grandmother in striped sweater shares a joyful moment with young grandson on a wooden bench outdoors.
Father playfully holds toddler upside down on a leaf-covered path in an autumn forest.
01 / 12

⚜︎ honorable mentions


Other locations I love to use:

Ferne Clyffe State park - goreville ⚜︎ Rendleman orchards - alto pass ⚜︎ horseshoe lake - olive branch ⚜︎ rock springs - Thebes ⚜︎



⚜︎ Still not sure where to go?


If there’s one thing I hope this guide helps with, it’s reminding you that there is no one “perfect” location, only the one that feels the most like you.


Whether you’re envisioning city lights, cozy coffee shops, scenic overlooks, open fields, dramatic architecture, playful family moments, or something completely unique to your story, there are so many beautiful options to choose from. And the good news? You absolutely do not have to have it all figured out before reaching out.


Honestly, some of my favorite sessions have started with: “Okay hear me out…” 😂


Whether you already have a dream location in mind or need help narrowing things down, I’m always happy to help guide you based on the vibe you’re wanting, outfits, lighting, season, and the overall feeling you want your photos to have. At the end of the day, the goal isn’t just a pretty backdrop, it’s creating photos that feel personal, intentional, and genuinely like your story.

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