Along with Spring comes the start of family photo season in Minnesota! From urban gems to beautiful natural landscapes, Rochester MN is home to many photo-worthy backdrops. Whether you’re grabbing your own camera or phone to snap a quick family photo, or hiring a professional to capture this moment in time for your family, our Favorite Family Photo Spots in Rochester MN Guide is here to help you select a spot that is perfect for your family’s unique interests and style.
- Your Own Home or Backyard: Make your photo session extra personal and unique: consider having photos taken at your own home. Not only will you feel more comfortable in the environment, you’ll have a backdrop unlike any of your friends or family’s photos. Many location photographers specialize in doing in-home sessions to capture your family in your own space.
- Plummer House: A cornerstone of Rochester’s history, The Plummer House grounds offer a variety of beautiful backdrops for your family’s photos. Various yards, patios and paths provide natural elements that change with the season. Be sure to contact the Plummer House prior to showing up for photos as it is closed to the public during private events.
photo by Marit Williams Photography - Silver Lake Park: Another Rochester landmark, Silver Lake has various spaces that are beautiful for outdoor family photos. Picturesque bridges, lawns and lakeside spaces abound. Who knows…you may even have some geese join in on the memories (but be sure to watch out for geese droppings as you stroll around the lake)!
- Quarry Hill Park: Quarry Hill Nature Center is a local favorite for family photos. While the landscape changes based on the season, you can find many backdrops in one area. Tree-lined paths, a sprawling quarry, a glistening pond and sun-filled fields can be found in the areas surrounding the nature center.
photo by Marit Williams Photography - Oxbow Park: Located just outside of Rochester in Byron, MN, Oxbow Park is home not only to the Zollman Zoo, but also many family photo-friendly hot spots. From the historical house on the land, to prairie grasses and riverside views, Oxbow Park offers many natural environments for your family photos.
photo by Marit Williams Photography - Downtown Rochester MN: For a more urban feel, photos by downtown Rochester’s beautiful old brick buildings and dramatic alleys are always a fun option. Be sure to check with local business owners to get permission before shooting photos on their property.
- Mayo Civic Center: The Mayo Civic Center is the perfect family photo spot for families looking for a modern vibe to their session. Mayo Park, the riverside park adjacent to the Civic Center mixes both urban and natural elements while the new Riverfront Plaza is a favorite because of the beautiful curve of the architecture. The architects, TSP and Betsch Associates, created the wave to mimic and embrace the adjacent Zumbro River. The Riverfront Plaza will soon be home to a new public art sculpture referred to as the ‘archway to Rochester’.
photo by Dean Riggott Photography - Your Local Park: Oftentimes perfect family photo locations are where you’d least suspect it. Be sure to drop by your local neighborhood park or trails to scout out a spot that is convenient to you and has elements you admire for photos. When scouting photo locations, consider areas where the lighting is soft and backdrops that are not too distracting to ensure your family is the focus.
Looking for a professional photographer to capture your family’s memories? Look no further than our Rochester MN Guide to Photographers!
Photo Credit: Marit Williams Photography
