Best Locations in Oklahoma for a Family Photo Session | Norman, Oklahoma Family Photographer
As an Oklahoma family photographer, the two questions I get asked most are: 1. “What should we wear for our family photo session?” and 2. “What are the best locations for a family photo session in central Oklahoma?”
This blog post is all about question number two and the locations that I love to photograph families at the most. When deciding on the location, I think it’s so important to choose one that most represents your family. If you’re a nature loving, outdoorsy family, it wouldn’t make much sense to choose an urban location for your family photo session. As a storytelling family photographer, it’s my goal to plan a family session that best represents who you are as a family.
I’m going to jump right in and tell you the pros and cons (in my opinion) for each central Oklahoma location that I love to shoot at.
The Myriad Gardens in OKC
Pros: The Myriad Gardens in Oklahoma City is a beautiful backdrop for family photos, especially in the fall. It’s located right in middle of OKC so it’s a central location that works well for most families. There’s a kids area, playground, carousel, beautiful gardens, great architectural elements, the OKC city skyline, and so many other things that you can incorporate into photos here. It’s honestly one of my favorite places to bring families.
Cons: It’s a pretty popular location amongst a lot of Oklahoma photographers, so sometimes we have to take turns and work around each other in certain areas.
Will Rogers Gardens in OKC
Pros: Will Rogers Gardens in Oklahoma City is stunning location for family session almost year around. There’re water features, so many beautiful colors from all the flowers, seasonal gardens that bring a different look to spring sessions versus fall sessions, and plenty of shade to shoot under if you can’t choose an ideal session time like the golden hour.
Cons: They have seasonal hours and are strict about when they lock their gates. They close at 8pm during the summer months and 5 pm starting October 1st. That means we have to plan photo sessions with that in mind.
Wheeler Park in the Wheeler District of OKC
Pros: This is a super fun location for families! With the iconic ferris wheel and giant OKC sign, nothing says, “We’re an Oklahoma family!” quite like it. Besides the ferris wheel and OKC sign, there are swings, hammocks, games, murals, architectural elements, and the OKC skyline to incorporate into your family photos.
Cons: The lighting can be a little tricky as there’s not much shade and you can get some harsh side light and shadows in the evening if the sun is still a little high on the horizon.
Downtown Main Street in Norman
Pros: This is my favorite location for murals, brick, metal staircases, and an overall urban vibe with a little bit of an edgy grunge feel. After your family session, there’s plenty of restaurants to have dinner at afterwards to make it fun evening overall. Or you can bribe your kiddos with ice cream at Rusty’s Frozen Custard after your session ;)
Cons: The dumpsters are a little smelly in the back alley where I shoot at on Main Street. Also, sadly the homeless population is growing in this area :(
Paige’s Farm in Purcell
Pros: If you want a beautiful, natural Oklahoma prairie backdrop, then my farm, located between Washington and Purcell just south of Norman, is the perfect location. With golden prairie grass, hug shade trees, springtime wildflowers, walls of cedar trees, and wide open fields, our 70 acre farm will give your family plenty of options year around for family photos.
Cons: I’m located about 20 minutes south of Norman, so it can be a bit of a drive for my north OKC and Edmond families.
The Plaza District in OKC
Pros: This is a fun and hip area that’s great for couple’s sessions but also works for families too. For a cute storytelling session, you can grab an ice cream at Roxy’s or a beer at any of the cool outdoor restaurant and bars.
Cons: Depending on how busy it is, we may have to work around other people.
If you want to fill your session day with exploring and adventure, check out this article I was featured in about What Is Oklahoma City Known For.
