Best Indianapolis Locations for 2024 Family Photos

Centrally Located Spots for your Indiana Family Photo Session

Indianapolis is a great place to take family photos. It’s known for a variety of locations, from city parks to historic buildings and monuments. When choosing a photo session location, it’s important to consider the size of your group, the type of photos you want to take, and the time of day you plan on taking them. With all these factors taken into account, you can land on the perfect spot for your family photos.

Let’s explore some of the top places in Indianapolis that are ideal for family photo sessions. Below are several locations that can easily be accessed within thirty minutes or less from most places in the central Indianapolis area.

We'll discuss what makes each place unique and provide insight on how to choose the best fit for capturing your special moments with loved ones. Be sure to read the notes on each spot for tips on the best time of year for that specific location, whether permits may be required, and how to access the hidden gems they hold.

West Park

West Park is located in Carmel Indiana and it’s known as one of the largest parks in the area. Its 120 acres have a lot to offer — including a splash pad, playground, boardwalks, mazes, and more! This location offers a lot of variety within walkable distances. I especially love the large hill that can be spotted from just about anywhere in the park.

100 Acre Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park

The mix of nature and art that can be found at the 100 Acre Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park is truly amazing. The easy access point to water is my favorite part about this Indianapolis location. There are plenty of trails, sculptures, and hidden treasures for your family photo session.

Indiana War Memorial & Museum

The grand stairs of the Indiana War Memorial and Museum always make a statement during family photo sessions. This location also offers an interesting view of Indianapolis. I find this to be a great spot during those winter months where outside options are limited.

Garfield Park

Garfield Park is said to be the oldest park in Indianapolis. It’s a beautiful spot that definitely feels timeless and full of history. I love this location most during Indiana springs and falls. The trees show off with a variety of colors during these seasons. This park is home to the Garfield Park Conservatory, which is another great option for family photo sessions but will require a photography permit to be obtained at least two weeks prior to the session date.

University Park Downtown Indianapolis

Indianapolis is home to a lot of hidden treasures throughout the city. University Park is no exception to this rule — it makes up a portion of the Indiana War Memorial Plaza, said to originally be grounds with plans of a university to be built. These plans never came to fruition but the grounds still have a lovely campus park feel to them. This location is great year round and has an elevated city look to it.

Eagle Creek Park

Spacious grounds, wooded trails, seasonal wildflowers, and a water front are some of the many sights to be found at Eagle Creek Park! Known as one of the largest municipal parks in the nation - there are countless options to serve as a backdrop to your family photos.

Holcomb Gardens

The Holcomb Gardens have a timeless royal feel to them. The wide lawn space framed by well kept hedges make for a lovely backdrop for any size family portraits. They are located on the north side of Indianapolis surrounding the Butler University campus. You can also find bridges, a gazebo, and benches during your stroll of these grounds.

Butler University

Butler University has a beautiful campus, including this landmark, the Holcomb Carillon Tower. These lengthy set of stairs can be utilized for family photos during all seasons. Just on the other side of the clock tower you will find a pond with a center fountain and iron bridges surrounding it.

Southeastway Park

Southeastway Park is recognized for their many wooded trails. This location seems to shine brightest during the fall seasons. It will offer up great warm colors and tall whimsy grasses for your autumn family session.

Fort Harrison State Park

Fort Harrison State Park has lovely trails, wildflowers during the spring and summer, and this pathway framed by towering trees. Just outside the park is the Fort Harrison State Park Inn which has a historic aesthetic, running creek, and cozy gazebo.

Newfields Lilly House & Gardens

Picturesque scenes tend to just flow from spot to spot when visiting the Newfields property. Specifically the Lilly House and Gardens makes for a breathless setting for any type of family photography. This location tends to blossom overnight come spring time and continues to bloom well into the fall. Newfields truly can be photogenic throughout all seasons of Indianapolis weather. Just be sure to secure your photo pass before finalizing your family photo plans.

Glenns Valley Nature Park

Located on the south side of Indianapolis, Glenns Valley Nature Park is a quant almost hidden spot. It always feels pretty private and quiet when capturing your family photos here. There are trails, brick pathways, and a historic home on site.

Coxhall Gardens

In Hamilton County, the Coxhall Gardens are known for their amphitheater space, historic mansion, and many nature pathways. This is a great outdoor option for any season as well as for larger family group photos.

Blue Heron Park

Franklin Indiana holds a lot of historic beauty in their parks and Blue Heron Park definitely qualifies for that point. You will find a mixture of greenery backdrops, water, and open spaces. The weeping willows that surround a large pond give a dreamy atmosphere for family portraits.

Province Park

In the heart of Franklin is Province Park, fifty acres of outdoor space. Here you’ll find a perfect blend of landscaping and natural growth. I particularly am drawn to this location for extended family photography sessions.

Downtown Columbus

If you’re willing to travel just a bit farther, you will find a lot of beauty in downtown Columbus, this overgrown pathway being a favorite. Be sure to visit in mid summer so that the ivy and grass has had a chance to fully mature.

Other Location Spots + Ideas

We’ve covered many beautiful locations for your family photos, but there are still other options if you’re looking for something more personal and specific to you! Consider one of these last few ideas if you’d like to have the location of your next photo session be as meaningful as it will be memorable.

At Home, Where Your Heart Is

At home photography will always hold a special place in my heart and I’m convinced it should in yours too. This is where you bring your babies home for the first time. This is where it used to be just the two of you. This is where your heart lives and grows.

If you’d like some at home inspiration — check out these other in home sessions with Heartstring Heirlooms.

The Local Park, Where Your Kids Play

We don’t have to travel far to find an amazing outdoor spot for your family photography session. Where do you already visit often? If there’s a park nearby that your little one enjoys, that can make the photos all the more meaningful.

In Bed, Indulging in Your Favorite Morning Treat

Does dad sneak off every weekend to bring home donuts? Do you all spend the morning pouring cereal and cleaning up messes? Family photography can be more than just picturesque backdrops. Sometime’s the best location is where the bonding most often happens.

Private Property, Where You’ll Be Unbothered

Think about locations specific to you — do you have access to boats, water, private lakes? Are there spots that are cozy and secluded? Sometimes these make the best pick for locations because you don’t have to worry about sharing the space and can just focus on spending time with your loved ones in an intimate way.

In Studio, No Matter the Weather

Studios are great picks for a variety of reasons. I’d say the biggest one for us Indiana people is not having to worry about the weather. By choosing to photograph in studio, you can rest assured you won’t need to reschedule, tromp through wet mud, or freeze during your family photos.

Anywhere, Doing an Activity You Love

What’s something that your family enjoys doing together during your free time? Is it riding bikes through your local park? Do you have family game nights? Maybe it’s baking treats at home? This answer could lead you to the best idea for your next photoshoot’s location.

Seasonal Spots, Ripe for the Picking

Is there a seasonal activity your family enjoys? Maybe picking apples, foraging for the best pumpkin, or even picnicking at your local orchard. These are all amazing options for unique family photos.

On a Stroll, Around Your Neighborhood

I’ll always be an advocate for dwelling within spaces that are meaningful. Sometimes a walk around the block can be as beautiful as anywhere else. Let’s walk out your front door and explore your area so that it can be seen in a new way.

Frequented Restaurant, Where You End Up on a Family Night Out

Do you have a favorite ice cream spot? Do the kiddos beg for your local pizza joint every weekend? Let’s go there. Family photos in the places you love are always a good pick.

Now that you know all the best places + locations for your next family photo sessions — let’s get you booked!