It’s crazy to think I have been in business for about two and a half years now. It has been an absolute whirlwind and I have loved every minute… even the chaos that comes with being a family photographer in fall. Over the course of being in business I have photographed beautiful families in a variety of gorgeous locations. Sometimes families have a specific location in mind where they would like to be photographed but, more often than not, I am asked for recommendations on where to hold their photography session. That’s why I’m using this blog post today to explore some of my favorite outdoor locations around the Milwaukee area to capture precious family moments.

Whitnall Park in Hales Corners


This is perhaps my absolute favorite spot to shoot! There are a variety of locations within the park to serve as a backdrop for family photos. From lush greenery to tranquil ponds, this park provides endless opportunities for beautiful shots. You have options from the Wehr Nature Center to Boerner Botanical Gardens and other wonderful settings in between. This location serves well for all seasons with beautiful magnolia trees in spring and vibrant fall foliage in autumn. You can choose to have your photos taken along nature paths or catch a gorgeous sunset among the tall grass in nature preserve area. The possibilities are seriously endless for some of the most picturesque backgrounds for family photos.

A family portrait taken under a blooming spring tree with delicate white blossoms.
A casual family portrait taken outdoors against a lush green summer background.
Family lounging on blanket in sunny spring garden with blooming trees in background.
A toddler in plaid flannel and jeans smiles while holding onto a wooden crate outdoors.
A maternity portrait on a wooded path features flowing blue dress and elegant outdoor setting.

Seven Bridges and Grant Park in South Milwaukee


If you’re located in the southeast suburbs of Milwaukee, you’ve most definitely come across Seven Bridges at least once while being in the area. It is a great place for family hikes among picturesque surroundings or a simple stroll along the beach of Lake Michigan. The atmosphere of Seven Bridges is quite simply an enchanting location for capturing family memories. Your pictures almost take on a fairytale appearance from the lush forests and wooden bridges. There is a unique element to photos within this magical backdrop.


Just down the road from Seven Bridges, behind the Grant Park Golf Course, is as perfect a spot for fall family photos as I have come to discover. I have held mini sessions here the last two years because there are two trees that turn vibrant hues of yellow and orange right next to a small gravel path. I love this spot for mini sessions with families because it offers so much variety within a short distance.

A family portrait on an autumn path with vibrant orange and yellow fall foliage in background.
Autumn outdoor portrait with fall foliage featuring coordinated family outfits.
Small child being swung by parents on leaf-covered path while laughing joyfully.
Romantic couple in white outfits embracing on sandy beach with water view.
Family playing in autumn park with vibrant yellow foliage backdrop.

Bluhm Farm Park in Muskego


I found this location when I was first starting out and scouting new locations to photograph at. Tucked into the middle of Muskego, this place is a hidden gem for family photography. It’s charm and beauty is complete with open fields with a low boardwalk bridge leading to a small wooded area. The combination of these natural surroundings provides a rustic and timeless ambiance to every session photographed here. It’s a perfect place to capture the warmth and love of a family.

Family portrait in tall grass meadow during golden hour.
Family of four posing together outdoors against autumn foliage background.
Family sharing intimate moment on wooden boardwalk surrounded by autumn scenery.
Family portrait on wooden boardwalk with children in foreground and parents in background.
Family portrait in meadow with wildflowers and natural greenery backdrop.

Downtown Milwaukee


While Milwaukee’s downtown might not be your typical choice for family photography, if offers a dynamic and urban backdrop for capturing the essence of the hustle and bustle that life often throws at us. My favorite spot within downtown is Trestle Park overlooking the Milwaukee River. It is a quieter spot of the downtown scene which allows you to disconnect from the outside world for a short time and reconnect with the ones you love most. Complete with a small prairie area, this location has something for everyone whether you’re looking for an urban or rural feel for your photos.

Person in black and white plaid shirt sitting on wooden bench against industrial backdrop.
Family walking together on wooden deck with industrial structure in background.
Person in buffalo plaid shirt posing on wooden boardwalk with railing.
Couple sharing tender moment on wooden deck overlooking water.
Family portrait on wooden boardwalk with metal industrial structure in background.

When choosing an outdoor location for your family sessions, it’s important to consider the vibe you want your photos to emanate while also keeping in mind the time of year. Downtown locations are great while buds haven’t bloomed yet or after leaves have fallen from the trees. But if an urban esthetic isn’t your style, choose a spot with open fields or along the lake. Track down a park with gorgeous fall colors when they’re at their peak or play among the flowers when the weather is warm.


As you continue to have your family memories captured against these stunning backdrops, you’ll continue to cherish the moments for years to come. See a place where you’d like your family memories frozen in time?! Get in touch here and let’s capture those moments when I see you on the other side of the lens!