In this post I’ve compiled the best Dallas locations for photoshoots.
When I moved to Dallas in August of 2018, I felt so lost. In Austin I had my locations on LOCK. I knew the best places for lighting, indoors, all the secret spots. And then I moved here and felt like a deer in the headlights. After some sleuthing and (much) trial and error I’ve compiled some of my favorite Dallas locations for photoshoots. I’ve created an even more in-depth and comprehensive Dallas location guide for all of my clients, if you’re interested in getting the full vip experience, send me a message and let’s chat about your vision!
Make sure to scroll all the way down to the bottom for a little discount on your photo session!
Prairie Creek Park
Prairie Creek Park is one of my favorite Dallas photoshoot locations because it is smaller and compact but provides some awesome backdrops. There’s a small waterfall feature as well as a couple bridges. It can get a little crowded with local photographers but if you come on weekday you should be good! This is the location I shoot all my mini sessions at!
Best time of day : the morning, but this spot has lots of shade so all day it’s great. It does get darker earlier because of the shade.
Cost : free
Parking : lots of street parking and a small lot off of W. Lookout Dr and W. Prairie Creek Dr.
Accessibility: medium, very accessible from the car and relatively compact. But the waterfall feature is rocky and a little hard to traverse.
View more photos from Prairie Creek Park: family photos | sister photoshoot
Arbor Hills
If you want a rustic vibe, with open fields and grass, Arbor Hills might be the perfect spot for your Dallas photoshoot. It’s quite a big park so if you’re not able to traverse easily or have a stroller it may not be the best option. In order to get the most even, golden glow, a sunset shoot is a must! The cool lookout structure is about a 10 minute walk away, so if you’re wanting that photo make sure to let me know!
Best time of day : two hours leading up to sunset
Cost : free
Parking : huge free lot with ample spots, can fill up on weekends.
Accessibility : poor. Must go down a hill or ramp in order to get to the open area. All the good spots are about a 5 minute walk. Flat shoes are advised!
View more photos from Arbor Hills Nature Preserve: engagement photos | senior photos | more engagement photos
Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
One of the absolute best Dallas locations for photoshoots! The Botanical Gardens are a great location if you want a variety of backdrops and beautiful flowers and color. I love shooting here but lighting can be a bit tricky as they close at 5pm. I recommend getting here at 9am for the best light! However, some of my favorite shoots have been at this location.
Best time of day : 9am-10am, both for good light and lack of crowds
Cost : $15 entry per person including photographer.
Parking : $15 for parking including photographers, can get crowded so give yourself time to find a spot!
Accessibility : medium, very flat and easy to traverse but if you want a variety of locations there is a bit of walking.
View more photos from the Arboretum: engagement photos
Deep Ellum
Deep Ellum is such a fun Dallas location, it might even be my favorite place to shoot. If you want an urban environment with lots of fun colors, this is the location for you! I love popping into local coffee shops and breweries to capture my couples vibe. There are tons of different murals scattered around, so go walk and explore! There’s not a whole lot of shade in this location, so go in the evening or early morning! I also highly recommend a weekday shoot as weekends can get very busy!
Best time of day : two hours leading up to sunset on a weekday. Not much shade and very crowded on weekends.
Cost : free
Parking : metered spots, parking lots and free parking on Crowdus street. Give yourself at least 15 minutes to find parking.
Accessibility : medium, relatively flat but lots of intersections and walking.
View more photos from Deep Ellum: senior photos | engagement photos
If you’d like to see more of my favorite Dallas photoshoot locations or if you have any questions, send me a message!
If you’re looking for more resources for planning your portrait session, here are some helpful posts to check out:
Learn more about Leah Goetzel Photography and our photoshoots!
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