Top Session Locations

Top 15 Places in the Madison, WI Area for a Photo Session

Whether you’re planning a family portrait, a boudoir session, or a couple’s shoot, Madison, WI, offers a variety of stunning locations to bring your vision to life. Here are the top 15 spots to consider, each with its own unique charm:

1. Madison Photography Studios

Madison Photography Studios is an inclusive and LGBTQIA friendly studio. For a controlled environment with professional lighting and backdrops, a photography studio is a versatile option. Perfect for boudoir, newborn, or corporate headshots, studios offer privacy and customization.

2. In-Home Sessions

There’s no place more personal than your own home. In-home sessions capture your family’s everyday life in a cozy, intimate setting, making them ideal for lifestyle photography.

3. Olbrich Botanical Gardens (50 USD Booking Fee)

With its lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and serene Thai Pavilion, Olbrich Botanical Gardens is a dream location for romantic and family portraits.

4. UW-Madison Arboretum

This natural oasis offers wooded trails, open meadows, and seasonal blooms, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor sessions.

5. Tenney Park

Known for its iconic lagoon, bridges, and waterfront views, Tenney Park is a classic choice for family and engagement photos.

6. Governor Nelson State Park

Located on the shores of Lake Mendota, this park offers scenic trails, rocky shorelines, and stunning sunset views.

7. Capitol Square

The heart of downtown Madison, Capitol Square features historic architecture, vibrant urban energy, and seasonal decorations for a dynamic backdrop.

8. Picnic Point

A popular spot for nature lovers, Picnic Point offers wooded trails, lake views, and a peaceful atmosphere for outdoor sessions.

9. Allen Centennial Garden

This hidden gem on the UW-Madison campus features beautifully manicured gardens, fountains, and charming pathways.

10. Pheasant Branch Conservancy

With its rolling hills, prairie grasses, and scenic overlooks, this conservancy is perfect for natural, earthy portraits.

11. Monona Terrace

Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, Monona Terrace offers stunning lake views, architectural details, and a modern vibe.

12. Aldo Leopold Nature Center

This serene location features wooded trails, rustic bridges, and educational exhibits, making it ideal for family and nature-themed sessions.

13. Lake Monona Shoreline

The lake’s sparkling water and skyline views create a breathtaking backdrop for romantic or urban-inspired photos.

14. Door Creek Orchard

Seasonal orchards and flower fields make this a charming location for fall or spring sessions, especially for families and couples.

15. Olin Park

With its panoramic views of Lake Monona and the downtown skyline, Olin Park is a versatile spot for both urban and natural backdrops.