The best photography locations in lincoln

Part of my job is to work with you to pick a location that’s a perfect fit for your photos, whether it be an engagement session, family session, senior photos, or wedding day portraits.

These are a few of my favorite options in the Lincoln area. All the locations are open to the public, but some do require prior permission or a park permit. If you have another spot that isn’t listed, I’m always on board for new ideas!

Pioneers Park


South Coddington & West Van Dorn Streets
Lincoln, Nebraska

Pioneers Park is always the most popular option for photos, but for good reason. It’s gorgeous, with so much variety. With fields of tall grass, dense trees, multiple ponds, and amazing sunset views it’s always an amazing choice.

Branched Oak Lake


12000 W. Branched Oak Road
Raymond, NE 

While Branched Oak technically isn’t in Lincoln, it’s close enough (a 15-20 minute drive from downtown) and one of my favorite locations. The lake views are incredible, but it also has great areas with tall grass, woodsy trails, and pretty sand beaches.

Downtown Lincoln and the Haymarket


For a more urban look with old brick walls, fire escapes, unique alleys, and fun murals the downtown and Haymarket areas are a perfect option. I tend to avoid the busiest area of the Haymarket near Pinnacle Bank Arena because there are always so many people around, but I love the area south of P Street.

A few other favorite options are near 10th & O, 13th & P, and 12th & M.

Frank Shoemaker Marsh


N. 27th Street
Lincoln, Nebraska

I’ve recently discovered Frank Shoemaker Marsh, and it’s quickly become a favorite option. I love that it’s not a spot that many know about and typically isn’t very busy. The park has a lot of tall grass and open prairie with trails, but also an area that is very woodsy and absolutely magical in the fall. It’s located near the N. 27th Street exit of Interstate 80.

Holmes Lake


S. 70th & Pioneers
Lincoln, Nebraska

Initially I was not a fan of sessions at Holmes Lake because it’s always so busy. However, the more I’ve explored I’ve found some incredible hidden pockets of the park that are amazing for photos and it’s quickly become a favorite.

Nebraska State Capitol


1445 K Street
Lincoln, Nebraska

The Capitol is such a popular option, and also perfect for days when the weather is less than ideal. I especially love it for weddings or when you are looking for a more formal look.

They do require that a form is submitted a week in advance (I take care of this for you) and we are also limited to their normal hours which close daily at 5:00.

Nine Mile Prairie


West Fletcher Ave.
Lincoln, Nebraska

Nine Mile Prairie is located near the AirPark neighborhood and is one of my favorite options for sessions right at sunset. It’s mostly wide open prairie with tall grass, but also has a few woodsy areas. It’s not a great choice for sessions that are earlier in the evening, but for the last hour before sunset it’s absolutely magical. The one downside to this location is that it requires a lot of walking.

Pawnee Lake


3900 NW. 105th Street
Lincoln, NE 68524

Pawnee Lake is another spot that isn’t exactly in Lincoln, but within 15-20 minutes of downtown. It’s typically less busy than Branched Oak and has some beautiful scenery and lake views.

Sunken Gardens


2600 D Street
Lincoln, Nebraska

Sunken Gardens is one of my most popular requests. It’s so stunning and makes a gorgeous backdrop for photos. However, it’s a small park and extremely busy. It’s best for sessions with immediate families, couples, or individuals. The Hamann Rose garden across the street is also a good option for additional variety.

UNL Campus


Lincoln, Nebraska

I really like working at both UNL’s downtown campus and East Campus. East Campus has been notoriously popular for photos, but I typically prefer the downtown campus. The area near Sheldon Art Gallery and Love Library are two of my favorite spots.

Spring Creek Prairie


11700 SW 100th Street
Denton, NE 68339

Spring Creek Prairie is located about 20 minutes southwest of Lincoln and another favorite location for sunset sessions. There isn’t a lot of shade, but as the sun starts to fade in the evening it’s such a great option.

Other Location Ideas:

Blue Valley Campground – Seward
Bowling Lake – Seward
Downtown Omaha
Downtown Seward
Elmwood Park – Omaha
Hall County Park – Grand Island
Harrison Park – York
Hazel Abel Park – Lincoln
Mahoney Park – Lincoln
Mahoney State Park – Ashland
Memorial Park – Omaha
MoPac Trail – Lincoln
Nebraska Wesleyan University Campus – Lincoln
Old Market – Omaha
Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo – Omaha
Pawnee Park – Columbus
Pine Lake Park – Lincoln
Platte River State Park – Louisville
Plum Creek Park – Seward
Seward County Fairgrounds – Seward
Tuxedo Park – Crete
Van Dorn Park – Lincoln