The class of 2019 is entering their last year of high school. You can capture this special moment for a senior in one of our gorgeous Minneapolis parks. From woodsy areas with dappled lighting to the shining Chain of Lakes, there are well over 6,000+ acres of parkland and water that can make a personal and memorable background. This month, we asked two of our favorite photographers to share their best-loved spots to shoot in.
Stephanie Glaros, Humans of Minneapolis
First Bridge Park
“Without a doubt, First Bridge Park along the riverfront in downtown Minneapolis the queen of senior portrait locations. With the Stone Arch Bridge and Warehouse District adjacent, it’s no surprise this area is full of well-coiffed seniors getting their photos taken this time of year (usually with a parent or friend in tow holding a wardrobe change).”
Powderhorn Park
“Powderhorn Park’s bowl shape provides both lakeside and hillside photo opportunities with plenty of greenery. Bonus: in certain spots, you can also catch the Minneapolis skyline (but because of its distance, you’ll need to telephoto lens if you want to include it in your background).”
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Angela Doheny, Angela Doheny Photography
Minnehaha Regional Park
“Minnehaha Park is probably most popular for its waterfall, but there’s so much to the park! I love to take photos there in the fall when the leaves are changing and I never miss a chance for photos at the pergola, stone steps, and any of the bridges over the creek. Because it’s a popular park, I try to go on weekdays. If a weekend works best, I make sure to take it slow and allot extra time to work around the crowds of park patrons.”
Boom Island
“Boom Island is my favorite park in the city. It has easy access to the river, skyline views, and big green space to really spread out. There’s so much variety for photos there! In one park, you can get photos with a lighthouse, on bridges in or near the Mississippi River, and on a grassy hill with the Minneapolis skyline. It’s a popular location for the start of races, so be sure to ask about other events on your date when you purchase a photo permit.”
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Did you know? Professional photographers are required to obtain a photo permit for shooting in Minneapolis parks. Find the photography permit here.