Where should I take my photos?! I am asked this question constantly before family, extended family, and senior sessions. It's such a fantastic question. Of course there is no shortage of gorgeous spots for portraits in this area. I also try to discover a new spot once a year to put into my rotation! Here is a list of some of my most favorite spots to shoot portraits.
1. Quabbin Reservoir , Belchertown, MA
The Quabbin is such a versatile location for photos. Aside from a pretty cool history, there are countless locations within Quabbin that provide breathtaking backgrounds for any session. From water views and open fields, to sun speckled wooded paths with a stone wall here and there, this spot has a lot to offer.
2. Quabbin Park Cemetary, Ware, MA
Just across the street from the Quabbin is the Quabbin Park Cemetery. I know what you're thinking: Really? A cemetery? Trust me on this one. This a great spot with a beautiful pillared building, cascading ivy, and rock walls. It's a hidden gem!
3. Forest Park, Springfield, MA
Forest Park is another versatile location for any portrait session. Inside this popular, historic Springfield spot are countless ponds, fences, and gardens. It's easy to navigate and even has a playground that can act as a treat for little ones after the big photoshoot!
4. Bruuer's Pond, Wilbraham, MA
This easy to access location may be small, but packs a lot of options into a tiny space. Water views, rocks walls, and a bridge make for the perfect portrait backdrop year round. There is a small field with tall wildflowers that is especially gorgeous in the summer and fall!
5. The Ludlow Mills, Ludlow, MA
The Ludlow Mills is a very cool location. This spot has the best of both worlds: historic brick mill buildings complete with funky doors and clock towers to river views and wooded paths. One word of caution: the wooded area is under construction this year (2021). I'm hoping that once this is completed, this awesome location will shine again!
6. Stanley Park, Westfield, MA
Here's another location the kids will LOVE. Stanley Park has so much to offer. There's a duck pond perfect for family session candids. Of course, you can't forget the rose garden. This little oasis is beautiful year round, but really comes to life in the late summer/early fall. Come for your family session and stay for the day! There's so much to explore.
7. The Mount, Lenox, MA
Not only do I enjoy shooting at The Mount, but I absolutely love visiting this Berkshire gem as well. It's truly one of my favorite places. The meticulously cared for gardens provide the perfect backdrop for engagement, senior, and family sessions alike.
8. Fountain Park, Wilbraham, MA
Located in Wilbraham, MA, Fountain Park is another easy to access portrait session spot! This pet friendly park boasts a big white barn, open fields, and wooded paths. I have found this location to be reliably beautiful in every season. The foliage in the fall is stunning and I have found that even into the late fall, little pops of color can be easily found!
9. Grandmother's Garden, Westfield, MA
Grandmother's Garden boasts some of the most beautiful gardens in the area. Until I became a photographer, I had no idea this little gem was tucked away in Westfield! Year round this little park will provide a colorful backdrop to any portrait session.
10. The Corner Studio, Wilbraham, MA
Last, but not least, is my studio space in Wilbraham. The weather doesn't always cooperate, especially during February. You can still get those beautiful moments captured indoors at The Corner Studio. This historic brick building has high ceilings, large picture windows, and tons of natural light. Formal and casual portraits are easy peasy in this space with room for the whole family!
See yourself in one of these picturesque locations? Book your session now!
1 Comments
Oct 21, 2023, 4:07:31 PM
Ali Durant - Hi Danielle, I am looking for a wedding photographer for October 19th, 2024. I came across your website and like your work. If you are interested and are available that day, I would love to get more information about pricing, etc. Thanks!