Creating lasting family memories often involves capturing those special moments in photographs. From scenic gardens to iconic state parks, Iowa offers a plethora of picture-perfect locations for family photo shoots. Here’s a roundup of some of the best spots across the state to snap those cherished family portraits.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is no stranger to photo shoots, especially ones for families. These enchanting gardens will serve as the perfect background to capture your loved ones, with a variety of photography session options to suit every group’s needs. Casual photography, including photos taken from your phone or digital cameras for personal use, is free and encouraged. No reservation or fee is required to take these types of pictures in the gardens. For those who are looking for staged photo shoots with one of the garden’s photographers, an assortment of packages are available starting at $175 per group of 12 or less (free for garden club members or photography permit holders). In addition to the fee, groups must make a reservation and pay in advance. All reservations are for one hour only and cannot take place between January and March due to “botanical blues.” For more information, visit dmbotanicalgarden.com.
Wilson’s Orchard
Iowa City
Escape to the countryside and capture rustic charm at Wilson’s Orchard in Iowa City. This family-owned orchard provides a quintessential backdrop for a rustic-themed photoshoot with its sprawling orchards, charming barns and picturesque landscapes. Different backgrounds occur year-round, with grassy rolling hills and wildflowers in the spring and summer and sunflowers and fall foliage and blooming orchards in the fall. Admission to the farm is $5 for guests ages 3 and up, and there is no additional cost for photography. During the fall, Wilson’s Orchard features selfie stations and photo areas (including the pumpkin stairs pictured above). For more information, visit wilsonsorchard.com.
Hickory Hill Park
Iowa City
With a setting straight out of a Hallmark movie, Hickory Hill Park in Iowa City is perfect for those looking to take family photos outdoors year-round. The historic park offers scenic forest, prairie, wildflower and lakeside backgrounds for families and is especially beautiful in spring when the flowers are blooming or in fall when the foliage begins to explode with color. The grounds are stroller- and kid-friendly, and there are no fees or restrictions for taking photographs here. For more information, visit icgov.org.
Lake Macbride State Park
Solon
In addition to serving as a fan-favorite for camping, fishing and nature watching, Lake Macbride State Park in Solon is also a popular destination for a family photo shoot in Iowa. The scenic setting includes backdrops of serene waters (especially at sunset!), lush greenery and flowers, and rugged spillways leading to the lake and trails. There is no reservation or permit required for photography specifically, but the park does require reservations and an Iowa State Parks Passport for those who make the most of the trip and camp for the evening. For more information, visit iowadnr.gov.
Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Des Moines
Add a touch of artistic flair to your family photoshoot in Iowa at the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, located adjacent to the Des Moines Art Center. This 4.4-acre outdoor art museum features a remarkable collection of contemporary sculptures set amidst lush greenery, offering a unique and visually stimulating backdrop for your family portraits. All photography types are welcome, free and easily accessible to the public at this stunning destination at any time. A free sculpture location guide is available online to help your family strike a pose at the perfect spot. For more information, visit desmoinesartcenter.org.