The Best Locations for Outdoor Photos in Indianapolis
Are you looking for the best locations for outdoor photos in Indianapolis for your next portrait photography session? Whether you want someplace timeless, upscale, and with beautiful architecture, or someplace more green and natural, I have you covered!
The most important factor when it comes to choosing your portrait photography session location isn’t actually the location itself…it’s the light!
You could find the most beautiful flower garden and think that it would be the perfect place for your session, but if it’s in harsh, direct sunlight all day, it won’t be conducive to getting you the most flattering images possible.
Keep reading for a few of my favorite portrait photography session locations in the Indianapolis suburbs. These places are tried and true, and ones where I’m confident we’ll be able to get some gorgeous lighting that will make you look your absolute best on your session day!
TIMELESS & Elegant ARCHITECTURE
Coxhall Gardens
Nestled in the heart of Carmel, Coxhall Gardens is a 125-acre oasis combining elegant architecture and lush landscaping — perfect for portrait, engagement, senior, and family photography. The park’s iconic features, including the twin bell towers, grand amphitheater with tiered seating and fountains, and the historic Coxhall Mansion, offer stunning and versatile backdrops for any occasion, making it a great choice for your Carmel portrait photography location.
Coxhall Gardens holds a special place in my heart, as it’s where my husband proposed back in 2021! It’s also where I shot my first portrait session, and I love the versatility it offers. You can get a great mix of timeless images amongst the beautiful architecture, and also have a chance to capture more natural photos near the lush trees and manicured gardens. This is one of my favorite places to shoot!
TIMELESS & Elegant ARCHITECTURE
The Meeting House
Located within the Village of West Clay in Carmel, The Meeting House blends elegant architectural detail with beautifully landscaped public spaces. Its stately, colonial-inspired facade and central fountain help set the tone for timeless engagement, couple, and family portraits. Surrounded by shaded walkways and romantic, ornamental gardens, this is my favorite spot in Carmel for couples photography sessions.
Lush greenery & open fields
Elm Street Green
Right next door to the iconic Lions Park in Downtown Zionsville is Elm Street Green, a charming 15.5-acre community park with wide open fields, lush greenery, and paved walking trails. Elm Street Green is my favorite location for seniors, families, and couples looking for a spot that highlights nature and feels open and free. The park’s soft spring blooms, vibrant summer foliage, and golden autumn light make it a great portrait photography location year-round!
Urban & sophisticated
Downtown Carmel
Blending modern architecture with charming brick alleys, tree-lined streets, and colonial-inspired buildings, Downtown Carmel offers a vibrant and upscale setting for your portrait photography session. Ideal for senior portraits, couples sessions, and engagement photos, this area provides a wide variety of picturesque backdrops within walking distance. From the Palladium and Center for the Performing Arts to the quaint brick storefronts along Main Street, every corner of Downtown Carmel brings a mix of sophistication and charm to your photos. This is a great option if you’re looking for variety in your images, but you don’t want to add on an additional location!
Lush greenery & open fields
The Garden at Newfields
Tucked away on the grounds of the Indianapolis Museum of Art, this lush, meticulously maintained garden provides natural beauty and stunning architecture year-round. From vibrant seasonal blooms and elegant pathways to serene water features and charming sculptures, Newfields is a picturesque and versatile location for your next portrait photography session.
Please note that Newfields requires a $50 photography permit; click here for updated policies, fees, and hours.
Whatever setting you’re looking for, I am happy to help you select a location that fits your vision. Inquire to get in touch and see if we’re a good fit. I would cherish the opportunity to help you preserve your family’s memories and milestones at one of these locations, or another meaningful location of your choosing!
warmly,
Malia