Top Summer Locations for Family Photography in Minnesota

Let’s face it: summer in Minnesota is short, sweet, and way too precious to waste. Once we thaw out from the eternal winter and slap on the sunscreen, it’s go time—for sprinklers, popsicles, and yes, family photo sessions.

If you're in the thick of raising tiny humans and trying to capture the magic before someone throws sand in someone else’s juice box, this post is for you. Whether you're after glowing golden light or a funky city vibe, I've got you covered with some of my favorite summer spots for Minnesota family photography. These aren't just pretty places—they're spots that work for actual families with actual small children. (So, no cliffside photo ops where a toddler could launch themselves into a lake, I promise.)

Let’s dive in.

Family Photo Information

Tamarack Nature Center – For the Nature-Loving Families

Located just north of St. Paul, Tamarack Nature Center is a dream for families who love a little nature with their photo session. With winding trails, tall grasses, and just the right touch of woodland magic, it’s the kind of place where everything feels calm and natural—even if your toddler is enthusiastically narrating everything they see.

Now, Tamarack does have a fantastic nature play area (think sand, water, and happy chaos), but I always recommend saving that for after the session. Once kids discover it, it’s pretty much game over for clean clothes and focused faces. Instead, we stick to the scenic trails and quiet open spaces—perfect for relaxed, beautiful photos that feel like a summer evening should.

In the fall, Tamarack can get packed with photographers—especially on weekends, which I avoid—but during summer evenings, it’s often much more peaceful. That makes it a great choice for Minnesota family photography, with gorgeous light, a variety of backdrops, and plenty of room to explore without dodging a dozen other sessions.

St. Anthony Main – Urban Charm With a Side of “Stay on the Sidewalk!”

Want something a little more city-chic but still totally doable with kids? St. Anthony Main in Minneapolis is where it’s at. With cobblestone streets, vintage streetlamps, river views, and just the right amount of grit-meets-glam, it’s got that timeless urban aesthetic that photographs so well.

Now, fair warning: it’s still the city, which means we’re keeping a close eye on wandering feet. There are streets nearby, so this isn’t a spot where kids can roam totally free—but there are enough tucked-away corners, stairways, and pockets of green space to give you variety without wrangling your child out of traffic every five minutes.

You get skyline, brick textures, waterfront paths, and soft evening light—basically a four-in-one deal for your Twin Cities session. Just maybe hold off on the promise of post-session ice cream until the very end… unless your aesthetic involves sticky fingers and chocolate chins (no judgment).

Investment Information

Your Own Backyard – Seriously, Hear Me Out

I know, I know. You’re probably thinking: “Michele, I did not tidy the patio for this.” But listen—your backyard is a goldmine of familiarity and comfort for your kids. They already know where the bugs live and which rocks are edible (I wish I were kidding).

I love photographing families at home during the summer because everything feels relaxed and real. Whether it’s a quick sprinkler run, a messy popsicle break, or dancing in the grass, your backyard can be the perfect setting for capturing what summer really looks like for your family. And let’s be honest: the fewer shoes you have to put on children, the better.

Plus, this is the kind of Minnesota family photography that grows more meaningful over time—it’s not just about a pretty background, it’s about documenting the place where memories happen every day.

Como Park Conservatory Grounds – Not the Greenhouse (But Still Gorgeous)

Yes, Como Park gets busy. Yes, there are weddings everywhere on Saturdays. But with a little planning (hello, weekday evenings), this location is still one of the Twin Cities’ most iconic and photo-worthy spots.

Now, before we get carried away with visions of lush indoor greenery—the conservatory itself is off the table unless you’re prepared to fork over a $250 permit fee. So for most families, we’re skipping the glass house and sticking to the outside grounds. And honestly? You won’t miss a thing.

The outdoor spaces are beautiful: flower-lined paths, grand old trees, water features, and wide-open lawns that are perfect for twirling, running, or simply sitting and snuggling in the evening light. It’s versatile, classic, and full of character—ideal for Minnesota family photography sessions that feel elevated but still relaxed. And yes, there’s an ice cream cart nearby. Just sayin’.

A Local Fair – Because Real Life Is Sticky, Loud, and Kinda Magical

Okay, this is my wild card pick. A local summer fair might not be the first place that comes to mind for family photos—but hear me out. It’s colorful, chaotic in the best way, and packed with all the ingredients for unforgettable photos: twinkly lights, cotton candy faces, tiny hands holding oversized corn dogs, and that classic spinny ride your kid swears they’re tall enough for.

Fairs bring out genuine joy (and just the right amount of chaos), which makes them perfect for capturing your crew exactly as they are. You’ll get movement, texture, laughter, and maybe a little powdered sugar on your shirt—and honestly, that’s part of the charm.

Whether it’s a local church festival or one of the bigger Twin Cities summer fairs, this is where your family's personality can shine through in a totally fun, unexpected way. Just maybe schedule the photo session before anyone rides the Tilt-a-Whirl. Trust me on that one.

The mQn Experience

Let’s Make Summer Count

Minnesota gives us approximately three months of bliss before the snow boots reappear. That’s three months to make some memories, squeeze in some sunshine, and maybe (just maybe) get a photo where everyone’s eyes are open. Summer is short, and kids don’t keep—so let’s make this the year you finally book that photo session.

Want even more ideas for places to explore this summer with your family? Check out the Minnesota Parent Summer Fun Guide for kid-friendly events, outings, and festivals happening all over the Twin Cities.

Whether you go full nature-core at Tamarack or let the kids live their best life at a local fair, the most important thing is to choose a spot that feels like you. And hey, if that means your backyard with a sprinkler and a snack stash, I’m all in.

Got a favorite spot I didn’t mention? Leave a comment and let me know! I’m always on the lookout for the next hidden gem for Minnesota family photography.

Michele is a Minneapolis-based family photographer with over 15 years of experience turning everyday moments into meaningful, lasting artwork. Known for her natural style, calming presence, and deep understanding of what it’s really like to photograph small kids (yes, even the snack-demanding, nap-skipping variety), she helps families feel comfortable and look amazing—without the stress.

She photographs families across the Twin Cities and beyond, from wildflower fields to backyard swing sets, always keeping things light, fun, and beautifully timeless. When she's not behind the camera, you can find her curating her studio wardrobe, hunting for the next great photo spot, or reminding parents that the best photos usually happen between the poses.

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