I'm a New Orleans Photographer and I specialize in lush, vibrant photos with a touch of whimsy.
Fairytale kids, happy families, glamour portraits of adults, it's all here at Teena Whitmore Portraits!
As a professional photographer my clients always want to know where the best locations for photos are in New Orleans. I’m always on the look out for new and unique locations. A good location is more than just a pretty backdrop. I also have to think about the light, accessibility, and the feel of a place. Also, different locations may work for one type of session, but not another. There are so many details that I take into consideration to make sure my clients get exactly the look they are going for.
Here are my top 5 favorite places (in no particular order) to take your family photos in Nola, along with some pros and cons of each location.
Contact Teena at 504-273-9294 for pictures of you and/or your family in any of these places.
701 Decatur Street, New Orleans, Louisiana 70116,
www.neworleans.com
If you are looking for photos that are quintessentially New Orleans and postcard perfect, this is it! That’s also why it is one of the best locations for family photos. New Orleans (or NOLA as we call it), was founded in 1718, making it one of the oldest cities in America. The historic architecture, with French and Spanish Creole influences, as well as the historic colorful cottages, make for a perfect backdrop. French Quarter sessions make GORGEOUS photo albums. This location gives you lots of variety while still feeling cohesive.
Wander the streets around St. Louis Cathedral, duck into Pirate’s Alley, pose at the gates of Jackson Square, or even stroll past Cafe Du Monde up to the riverfront. You can hit all of these spots within a few blocks while soaking in the ambiance and romance of New Orleans.
Pros: Lots of locations, unique and identifiable, tons of character
Cons: Traffic and parking issues, crowds, lighting can be tricky; permit required to shoot in Jackson Square
6500 Magazine Street, New Orleans, LA 70118
5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
https://audubonnatureinstitute.org/audubon-park
This 350 acre park has been part of New Orleans since the 1870s and provides a stunning background for your portraits. Named for John James Audubon, who began living in New Orleans in 1821, it is a great location for outdoor photos because of the diverse scenery you can find here. From towering Live oak trees with dripping Spanish moss to the bayou filled with native birds, there is something here for everyone. If you are looking for soft light and green trees, this is your place. Kids love to climb the gigantic limbs of the trees and even splash in the fountains. This is the “go-to” spot for family photos.
Pros: Variety of locations, beautiful oak trees, lots of room to roam, no permits needed
Cons: Crowded, especially on fall weekends, popular with lots of photographers so less unique than other locations
1 Palm Drive, New Orleans, LA 70124
https://neworleanscitypark.org
City Park is NOLA’s largest public park and is almost two times the size of New York’s Central Park. There are so many locations and activities to choose from here., making it one of the best location options (and super popular for families) for your New Orleans photos. Be careful of permit requirements – all photographers are required to have a permit no matter what part of the park they are photographing in . There is no photography allowed in Carousel Gardens or Storyland. My favorite parts of City Park are Couturie Forest, the wild areas of Harrison Avenue, the Great Lawn, and the bayou under the oak trees near the front. Everyone loves the stone bridges as well. Don’t miss the wildflowers in the Spring, either!
Pros: Tons of locations, big and open areas
Cons: Parking, crowds, permits/fees are required and can be confusing
7 Bamboo Road, New Orleans, LA 70124; (504) 488-5488
9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m; Closed Sunday
https://longuevue.com
Located off the beaten path, this historic estate and gardens is the place to go if you want flowers. There is always something blooming here. With 8 acres that are very well maintained, there are endless possibilities. From oak trees to fountains, ponds to gardens, you could spend an entire afternoon here. This is one of the best locations for family photos in New Orleans if you want lots of blooms. My favorites places are the wild garden, koi pond, and the gates that are found through the property. This property gives the “Secret Garden” feel. It’s a great space for families as kids can move around without worry. There is even a child’s garden!
While this used to be my first choice for sessions, they have revised their policies and photography permitting as of late making it less photographer-friendly and more difficult for clients as well. If you choose this option, make sure you follow all the rules and regulations, end your session on time (or you will be charged additional), and plan for lighting issues. Also, come dressed for your session as they now restrict changing of clothes in the public restrooms.
Pros: Flowers, flowers, and flowers! Parking lot; well maintained; quiet
Cons: Permits are expensive and must be reserved in advance; permit fees do not include a house tour and there are no inside photos; no place to change; lighting can be harsh here due to limited hours and available times for photo sessions
5 Victory Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70124; (504) 483-9402
10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m on Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday
10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday
https://neworleanscitypark.org/visit-city-park/botanical-garden
If you want a more formal look without the hefty price of a permit at Longue Vue, try the Botanical Gardens! It is definitely one of the best locations in the city of New Orleans for family, maternity, or really, any type of photos. Located in City Park on 10 acres, these gardens are less groomed than Longue Vue but still lovely. You can wander through the rose garden or past the pond (filled with amazing lily pads). The hedge walls make a lovely backdrop as well. This is a nice spot with built in seating and is relatively accessible to all. Hours are short and permits are required.
Pros: Uncrowded most of the time; lots of location options; built in seating
Cons: Permits required; there is not always something in bloom; not a good choice during the holidays because of Celebration in the Oaks decorations; short hours and tricky lighting