Best Locations for Senior Portraits in Columbus, Ohio

So your senior year is finally here — and now comes one of the most fun parts: picking where to take your portraits. Columbus has no shortage of beautiful spots, and after years of photographing seniors all over the city, I've got some strong opinions about which locations really shine.

Here are my personal favorites, and what makes each one special.

Inniswoods Metro Gardens

If you want lush, natural backdrops that look like something out of a magazine, Inniswoods is impossible to beat. The gardens offer an incredible variety of settings — wooded paths, open meadows, stone walls, unique structures, and a gorgeous waterfall — all within the same park. This means we can get a wide range of looks in a single session without driving all over town.

Spring and fall are especially stunning here. Blooming flowers in April and May, and warm golden foliage in October, make for portraits that feel timeless.

Best for: Nature lovers, students who want variety, waterfall, fall sessions

Topiary Park

This one is truly unique — and honestly, there's nowhere else quite like it in Columbus. The Topiary Park recreates Georges Seurat's famous painting "A Sunday on La Grande Jatte" entirely in sculpted shrubs and greenery. The result is a whimsical, artistic backdrop that makes for portraits unlike anything you've seen before.

It's a smaller park, so sessions here work best when combined with another nearby location like downtown Columbus. But if you want something that stands out from every other senior portrait, this is the spot.

Best for: Art lovers, students who want something truly one-of-a-kind

Jeffrey Park Mansion

The Jeffrey Park Mansion brings a classic, elegant feel that's perfect for seniors who want a more polished, timeless look. The architecture gives portraits a sophisticated edge — think rich textures, beautiful stonework, and a setting that feels both grand and approachable at the same time.

This location works beautifully year-round, and the surrounding park offers plenty of natural options if you want to mix elegant with outdoorsy.

Best for: Classic looks, formal portraits, students who want an elevated feel

Franklin Park Conservatory

The Franklin Park Conservatory works in any weather and any season. Inside, you've got lush tropical plants, stunning glass architecture, and incredible natural light. Outside, the grounds and surrounding park offer a completely different feel.

Keep in mind the Conservatory does require a separate admission fee, and photography permits are needed for professional sessions. The park will charge an extra $150 for us to book an hour for 1-2 people with a professional photographer.

Best for: Year-round sessions, rainy day backup plans, students who love plants and botanical vibes

Homestead Park

Homestead Park is a bit of a hidden gem — it doesn't get the same attention as some of the bigger parks, but that's exactly what I love about it. It has a relaxed, natural feel with open fields, mature trees, and creekside spots that photograph beautifully. Sessions here feel laid-back and authentic, which is perfect for seniors who aren't super comfortable in front of the camera.

Best for: Relaxed, natural portraits, camera-shy seniors, a less "posed" look

Downtown Columbus

For seniors who want something urban and modern, downtown Columbus delivers. Specifically the Scioto Mile offers urban city scapes, collegiate architecture, bridges, and and a park setting. My studio is located downtown near COSI, so we can easily combine a studio session with outdoor urban shots in the same appointment.

Best for: Urban aesthetics, seniors who want something edgy or modern, combining studio and outdoor shots at no extra fee

Tips for Choosing Your Location

Not sure which spot is right for you? Here's how I help my seniors decide:

  • Think about your personality. Are you outdoorsy? Artsy? Classic? The location should feel like you.

  • Consider the season. Some spots like Inniswoods peak in spring and fall. Others like the Conservatory look great year-round.

  • Don't overthink it. Most seniors end up loving spots they weren't sure about at first. Trust the process!

  • Mix it up. Many of my sessions combine two locations for more variety in your final gallery.

Ready to Book Your Senior Session?

I'd love to help you figure out the perfect location for your portraits. Get in touch here or book your session directly — and if you have a location in mind that's not on this list, just ask. Columbus has plenty more great spots and I'm always up for exploring somewhere new.