Top 5 Places to Take Senior Pictures in the twin cities

Minnesota Arboretum

When it comes to flowers, the Minnesota Arboretum (“the Arb”) is in a class of its own.  In addition to flowers, the Arb has fountains, benches, rocks, a small waterfall, and a variety of gardens.  My favorite is the prairie garden.  Since the Arb is so spacious, you will want to drive rather than walk to the different gardens.  There is parking throughout.  The Arb closes at 8pm in the summer, which means you might miss those late sunset shots.  Reserved tickets are required.  

Burwell Park

This park in Minnetonka is full of prairie grass, with flowers sprinkled in.  Be sure to check out the hydrangea bushes.  A charming wooden bridge crosses Minnehaha creek which runs through the park.






Millennium Garden

This park in Plymouth has a beautiful collection of flower gardens, plus ponds, a small cabin, a fountain, and a creek.  The Plymouth Community Center is next door and has bathrooms for public use.  It’s also a convenient place to seek cover if it happens to rain during your shoot!  Millennium limits the number of professional photographers on site so be sure your photographer reserves a spot.    











Lake Minnetonka

Minnesota is the land of 10,000 lakes so it makes sense that our seniors like lakeshore shots.  My favorite spots are the docks in Excelsior and Wayzata.  In addition to water, Excelsior offers quaint buildings and Wayzata has large rocks and a bridge.  Head to Licks (Excelsior) or Ben & Jerry’s (Wayzata) for a post-shoot treat.




Stone Arch Bridge

If you’re looking for an urban vibe, check out the Stone Arch bridge.   While the actual bridge is closed for repair, the areas on the east and west ends of the bridge are fantastic photo opportunities.  Mill Ruins park has slabs of old stone and a small waterfall.  The area also boosts patches of wildflowers, cool architecture, and you can grab a bite to eat at Owamni after!  A gorgeous backdrop of the city skyline can be found on the east end, near St Anthony Main.











Bonus: Home

Sometimes the comfort of home is called for.  I’ve captured seniors lounging on their front porch, sitting on their favorite childhood swing, playing with their dog in the yard, and leaning on their car in the driveway.  This is also a convenient way to add a family session onto the shoot.