It's always a great time for family photos, especially when the seasons begin to change. Sometimes, the Ohio weather doesn't cooperate like we'd want, and planning your family photos can get tricky. As a family photographer in Columbus, Ohio, I've experienced quite a bit of crazy weather and choosing the right places for upcoming photos. Luckily, with my years of experience, I've gathered a list of my top places to take family photos in Columbus, Ohio. Consider when planning your family photos and the time of year when choosing your family photo location.
Columbus Photography Studios - Family Photos in Columbus, Ohio
Using a photography studio for your family photos is always a great idea! The weather will never be an issue when using a photography studio in Columbus, and often, photographers will let you choose the backdrop colors or set design. As a Columbus family photographer, I own a studio and always offer it as an option to my family photo clients. Studio family portraits have become popular in the last few years for their timeless elegance and ability to take photos there year-round. A studio is an excellent option for family photos any time of year and makes photo planning that much easier!
Outdoor Locations for Family Photos in Columbus Ohio
Inniswood Metro Garden
For many reasons, Inniswood Metro Garden is a top spot for family photos in Columbus, Ohio: there is plenty of room for your kids to explore and play, luscious green grass, breathtaking seasonal flowers, and so much more. If you're local to the area and looking to celebrate where you live, Inniswood Metro Garden is just the spot. With an array of carefully-selected plant life, something is almost always in bloom and the aesthetic changes with the season.
Creekside Park in Gahanna
This 5-acre park is located near historic Gahanna and shares its walkways and enchanting waterfall, making it more than just a local park but an oasis for the family to enjoy. Explore Creekside Park's beauty while enjoying a picnic with family or even a day out on the water in paddleboats. Family photos here would allow for various opportunities for adventure and timeless memories captured forever. As a bonus, it is located next to a plaza area with brick, railings, steps, and a fountain. This gives even more variety at one location!
Uptown Westerville
If you're looking for a downtown feel for your family photos in Columbus Ohio, consider Uptown Westerville! Spend the evening strolling the eclectic and well-beloved small businesses while enjoying time with family and capturing a candid night out. Uptown Westerville offers rich red-brick buildings and a classic small-town feel perfect for your annual family photos. Colorful walls and doors accent this brick-filled area and provide a lot of photography options!
Downtown Columbus - Family Photos in Columbus Ohio
Another top spot for family photos is downtown Columbus, Ohio! Downtown Columbus is filled with community spirit and incredible locations for any family photo. Whether looking for a candid stroll in the park or exploring downtown, downtown Columbus is just the spot. Downtown is also a fun spot for trying new dinner spots, offering a variety of delicious posts for you and the family to enjoy after photos together. With bridges over the river, cute spots along the bank, and magnificent views of the downtown Columbus skyline, you can't go wrong if you want to showcase the heart of Ohio in your photos!
Friendship Park in Gahanna
As a family photographer and mother, we're always looking for new parks to try out, and Friendship Park in Gahanna fits the ticket. This park has luscious grass, pickleball courts, a robust playground, picnic tables, and much more. It is a great spot to take the family for a park date; family photos here are always a hit. The creek winds through the side of the park and offers several places for wooded views. Add Friendship Park to your list if you're considering summer or Fall family photos!
Family Pictures at Highbanks Metro Park
Highbanks Metro Park is located near Polaris Parkway and Rt 23. This large woodsy area offers plenty of photographic features including a creek, trees, bridges, tall grasses, pathways, and more! The color in the Fall is beautiful, but one of my favorite spots also has some tall grass to compliment the late Summer/fall look in the trees. There is a lots of grass to run and play, and a few playground features to visit after pictures are done. This park is VERY popular in the Fall, especially on the weekends. I recommend a weeknight during October if you want the best access and views without waiting for other families to leave as parking can be limited.
Everal Barn Family Pictures
The Everal Barn in Westerville is located near Cleveland and Main streets, just south of the Community Center at Heritage Park. This location is not always open to the public, as the buildings on the entire property can be rented through the Westerville Parks and Recreation Department and often is especially on Saturdays or for special events throughout the year. The country vibe of this location is unmatched in the suburbs, which makes it a popular location, especially in the Fall or for those looking for a rural feel in their photographs. The white barn is very popular as a setting, but the other buildings on the property come with equal character.
Sharon Woods Metro Park - Family Photos in Columbus Ohio
Last but not least, Sharon Woods Metro Park is small but mighty! It offers plenty for families to do and is home of a ton of variety of trees! It's beautiful in the fall and summer, with warm, rich colors coming out to play. Sharon Woods Metro Park is just the spot for family photos, fishing on the lake, or a morning walk with family and friends. This park is popular but still allows for secluded family photos without the crowds.
Whether you opt for family photos in my studio or an outdoor park, they'll be moments you cherish for the rest of your lives! Your kids are only little for a long, and you'll be so glad you chose to capture this crazy and slightly chaotic season of life.