Kansas City Photoshoot Locations
One of the most common questions I am asked by my clients is where to have their pictures taken at. There are so many awesome places in the Kansas City area, and it really should be up to you to decide. After all, these are YOUR pictures and will hang on YOUR walls. So you want somewhere that will fit you. Below is a list of some of my favorite places to shoot, along with info about each one, such as permit requirements, fees, etc. I hope this helps you choose the perfect location for your next photo shoot!
M Smith Portraits
Weston, MO
Many of my clients choose to have their session on our gorgeous property here in Weston. Not only are there many beautiful spots to choose from, having privacy adds an extra level of comfort during your shoot. Check out more sessions at our place, or, scroll down to view more location suggestions! The possibilities are endless!
Barney Allis Plaza
Kansas City, MO
The Barney Allis Plaza is a park located in Downtown Kansas City, Missouri at the intersection of 12th Street and Wyandotte. It is named after the prominent Kansas City hotelier, and owner of the Standard Theater, Barney Allis
Belinder Fountain
Mission Hills, KS
Belvoir Winery
Liberty, MO
The Belvoir Winery and Inn is actually the former Odd Fellows home, and is rich in history. It’s gorgeous grounds offer many beautiful locations for a photo session. It is also a wedding venue.
Black Hoof Park
Lenexa, KS
Black Hoof Park is a 231-acre park featuring 35-acre, deep-water Lake Lenexa, and is another fantastic option for my Johnson County families. The park offers a unique dam and spillway, several miles of trails through open grass and wooded areas and fun natural play areas for children. I have done several shoots here and I have been very impressed with the cleanliness of the park, and the friendliness of the people I have encountered.
Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area
Blue Springs, MO
Photography has gone off the charts at Burr Oak Woods recently, and for good reason. It’s patch of pine trees make you feel as if you’ve stepped out of the middle of Missouri and into the valleys of Colorado. FYI - this is a CROWDED location, and you will definitely run into other photographers and groups. More recently we’ve seen an influx of people disrespecting this space, which is extremely unfortunate. They have a strict no-pet policy along with no confetti.
The Colonnade
Kansas City, MO
The Colonnade is a gorgeous structure in Kansas City that has beautiful sunlight in the evenings.
Colonial Gardens
Blue Springs, MO
Crossroads Art District
Kansas City, MO
The Crossroads is full of art galleries in restored warehouses, restaurants, retail shops, and design firms. It is full of bold, vibrant artwork, quirky and modern architecture, with a little grunge thrown in. If you’re looking for something unique - choose The Crossroads and Art Alley for your session!
Englewood
Independence, MO
English Landing Park
Parkville, MO
English Landing Park is a 68 acre facility and offers walking trails along the Missouri River, plus the unique Waddell A-Truss Bridge
I usually suggest that my clients spend half of their session here and the other half just up the road, either in downtown Parkville, or at the Parkville Nature Sanctuary.
Frieght House Pedestrian Bridge
Kansas City, MO
The Pencoyd Railroad Bridge is a former railroad bridge in Kansas City, Missouri, that was converted into the Freight House Pedestrian Bridge and moved to its new location where it connects Union Station and the Crossroads Arts District.
Gillham Park
Gillham Park is located right off 39th street in Kansas City and has an interesting platform of steps and an old drained pool that is now covered in graffiti.
Grinter Farms
Lawrence, KS
Ever seen those dreamy shots of someone in a sprawling sunflower field? If you’re near KC, chances are, they’re taken at Grinter Farms in Lawrence, KS. Grinter Farms is a working family farm, primarily farming soybeans and corn, but for the last ~50+ years, they’ve also planted sunflowers. The Grinter family welcomes visitors into the sunflower fields, and does not charge for admission or parking, however photographers are asked to make a donation when they visit. They also prohibit photographers from setting up for the day - meaning, they don’t want us to do mini sessions. The sunflowers are in bloom for only about 2 weeks at the beginning of September, but the exact timing is impossible to predict, so you’ll need to follow along to their Facebook page and your photoshoot might be somewhat last minute once the blooms arrive. You will also need to be prepared for traffic, large crowds, and dirt and/or mud. If you can handle all of that, the results will be so worth it!
Hill Park
Independence, MO
I’ve been shooting sessions at Hill Park since I first started my photography business. It is a hidden gem tucked away in western Independence that you have probably driven by many times without realizing the unique stone structures hiding beneath the hill. It also has a cute little bridge with a creek below. Sadly, it’s starting to become a bit overgrown, which takes away from it’s once surprising beauty. You’ll also likely have to pick trash up out of your way due to some park-visitors not realizing what a trash can is for :( Sorry. I really despise littering. However, if you can work around it, it really does provide a beautiful backdrop for a small group - no more than 4 people I’d say - to have their photos done.
International Forest of Friendship
Atchison, Kansas
The International Forest of Friendship is a memorial park dedicated to the men and women involved in aviation and space exploration. There is a cute little rock-bed pond, and a bridge, along with pathways and pretty trees. I suggest combining this location with Warnock Lake, as they are adjacent to each other!
Kansas City Workhouse
Kansas City, MO
The Kansas City Workhouse is truly one of my favorite places to shoot. This old abandoned castle building off of 18th and Vine is covered in graffiti and totally one of a kind. Proceed with caution here - there is broken glass, trash and debri everywhere, and sometimes a questionable character hanging around.
UPDATE: The Kansas City Workhouse is now fenced off and under new ownership. It is rumored to become an event venue, but for now, it is totally off limits. :(
Kauffman Stadium
Kansas City, MO
Did you know photo shoots at Kauffman are a thing? They’re totally a thing! During the months of April through September, you can purchase a private 60-minute tour which includes two people and your photographer. You will have a private guide who will zip you all around the stadium on a golf cart. So fun! Check out their website for more information!
Krug Park
St Joseph, MO
Krug Park is one of St. Joseph’s most popular photography locations, with a lot of variety in scenery. The park’s 163 acres features Italian Renaissance structures, extensive landscaping, a lagoon, a rose garden, scenic walking trails and more. If you’re north of KC, I highly recommend Krug Park for your session!
Liberty Hospital
Liberty, MO
Tucked behind Liberty hospital is an adorable little park with tree swings, a wooden bring and a colonnade.
Line Creek
The Link
Kansas City, MO
Loose Park
Kansas City, MO
If you’ve lived in the KC area for long, chances are that you or someone you know has had a photoshoot at Jacob L. Loose Park. It is arguably the most popular spot in the metro area for photography, and for good reason! It’s truly a 75-acre oasis in the city - with beautiful ponds, bridges, and gardens.
There is a $25/ hour photography permit which your photographer must apply for at least 5 business days in advance. Signs are posted throughout the park, and you can expect to be asked to show your permit during your session.
Loose Park is one of my go-to locations because it is so versatile - Engagement Shoot? Family of 4? Family of 20? You can’t go wrong with Loose Park!
Museum at Prairie Fire
Overland Park, KS
The Museum at Prairie Fire is a vibrant, colorful and unique structure and perfect for engagement, maternity, senior and family portraits. Looking for a modern and unconventional look? You’ve come to the right place. (Pro Tip: Avoid this location on the weekends during homecoming season- late September or early October, and prom season- late April or early May. TRUST ME. )
Did you know, the Museum at Prairie Fire is available for weddings and events?
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Kansas City, MO
After living in the KC area my entire life, and driving past the Shuttlecocks more times that I could possibly count, I was finally able to shoot a family session on the grounds of the Nelson-Atkins recently. This is an icon in KC, which makes for a great backdrop, but make sure you go when the sun is not directly overhead, as there isn’t a ton of even shade to find here. Also, be prepared to pay for parking ($10 as of this post), or plan to park on-street and walk a ways. Professional photography is prohibited inside the museum. While professional photography is allowed outside on the grounds, your photographer must be registered and on file with the museum (no charge), and needs to go to the security entrance in the back to check in before your shoot.
NW Northwood/ 9 Hwy
Riverside, MO
Right down the road from Park Hill South High School is this fantastic little grove of evergreen trees, and interesting stone structure. Another hidden gem that will give you a unique look for your photos!
I usually recommend my client’s combine this location with the Riverside Waterfall location, as it’s just right down the road!
Old Red Bridge: Love Locks
South Kansas City, MO
This is a bridge full of locks left by couples in love. It also has a pretty creek below!
Park College
Parkville (Downtown)
Parkville, MO
Parkville is the perfect location for a charming small town feel for your photos. — You’ll get a variety of quaint storefronts and alleys for backdrops, including a really cool American Flag mural in one of the alleyways!
Many of my clients combine this location with English Landing Park or Parkville Nature Sanctuary for their session since they are so close together.
Parkville Nature Sanctuary
Parkville, MO
The Parkville Nature Sanctuary is a wildlife preserve on 115-acres and features nearly three miles of walking trails. Walk far enough back and you’ll find a beautiful waterfall - and an entrance to a root cellar, which I have yet to find!
Many of my clients combing this location with English Landing Park or Downtown Parkville for their session since they are so close in proximity.
Penn Valley Park
Kansas City, MO
Penn Valley Park is a 176-acre park overlooking downtown Kansas City, MO. It includes a small lake, walking trail and cute little stone bridge. It’s also close to the Just Off Broadway Theatre, which is a small castle-like structure, and The Scout Statue, which has an amazing view of the Kansas City skyline.
Powell Gardens
Kingsville, MO
Established in 1988, Powell Gardens is a public garden of lush, rolling hills and windswept meadows, with more than 175 acres and a large collection of plants open to the public for education, exploration, and recreation. It is an amazing location for engagement, maternity, small family and senior portraits. They also have a gorgeous wedding chapel!
There is a $10 admission fee for adults, $4 for children and a $5 parking fee per vehicle. FYI - Mileage rates apply for sessions at Powell Gardens.
Powell Gardens is open Thursday - Sunday 9:00AM - 5:00PM (Closed October 25th - November 10th and December 31st - March 1st)
Quality Hill Overlook
Kansas City, MO
The overlook sits on a 200-foot-high bluff which overlooks the confluence of the Kansas and Missouri rivers in the West Bottoms below. I typically suggest that my clients combine this location with either the West Bottoms, WWI Memorial or Union Station/ The Link since they are all so close together.
Riverside Waterfall
Riverside, MO
The Riverside Waterfall is a little gem at the entrance of a neighborhood that has become one of my clients’ favorite choices. It has a breathtaking waterfall, a cute little bridge, some green space, stone ledges and a small pond. I often suggest that my clients use this location for the first half of their session, and do the second half at the Northwood/9 HWY location, since they are so close to each other.
I usually suggest my client’s combine this location with the NW Norwood/ 9th Street location to add some variety to their session.
Roanoke Park
Kansas City, MO
The best thing about Roanoke Park is the adorable brick road that runs through it - the last remaining brick road in KC. This is a working road, so it’s important to use caution, and I wouldn’t recommend this location for small children because of that. There also isn’t a ton of versatility here - aside from the road, there is one section of trees and one stone wall, all of which aren’t substantial enough to accommodate large families. So I recommend this spot for couples, seniors and adults only.
Sar Ko Par Trails Park
Lenexa, KS
This is a beautiful park on the Kansas side featuring trails, bridges, a historic barn, and cute step-stone walkway through the pond.
Shawnee Mission Park
Shawnee, KS
Shawnee Mission Park boasts 1,655 acres and includes a 120-acre lake, shelters, picnic areas, nature tralis, play areas, an archery range, a 44-acre off-leash dog park, an 18-hole disc golf course, mountain biking and hiking trails, equestrian trails, and is home to the Theatre in the Park.
It has so much to offer if you’re willing to spend some time exploring. It is a VERY popular spot for photographers - I even had my own family photoshoot there last year!
Shoal Creek Living History Museum/ Hodge Park
Liberty, MO
Shoal Creek Living History Museum is an 80 acre museum within Hodge Park that includes seventeen authentic 19th-century buildings dating from 1807-1885. The grounds are open daily from dawn to dusk. It is truly a one-of-a-kind hidden gem in the KC area.
A photography permit is required - $25 per hour - or, your photographer may purchase the annual pass of $100 for the year. Hourly permits must be requested at least 2 business days in advance and can be requested here.
St. Joseph (Downtown)
St. Joseph, MO
Another great place for a more urban setting is downtown St Joseph. There are a few great places with exposed brick to use as a backdrop. Then, drive a few blocks west and end your session along the banks of the Missouri river!
Timber Park Trail
Platte City, MO
This is a real hidden gem in the northland! It has several great spots for photos, if you’re willing to walk a little ways! There is a trail through the woods, a bridge, a wooden fence, and my personal favorite - a field with tall prairie grass.
Town of Kansas Bridge/ River Market
Kansas City, MO
The Town of Kansas Pedestrian Bridge is a 650-foot long bridge that provides a link between the River Market to downtown Kansas City Riverfront. Spanning the Town of Kansas archaeological site, two railroads and the Missouri River floodwall. It has a wall of love locks, and a stairway and elevator down to the walking path below. Perfect location to mix the industrial look of the bridge with the nature-feel of the river below.
Union Station
Kansas City, MO
Union Station is a popular location for indoor photography, especially during the holidays. This is a great spot to add when shooting at the WWI Memorial, or The Link, for some variety. Please make sure that you purchase your photography permit ($25 for less than ten people, $75 for more than ten people) THE DAY OF your session. Some security guards enforce this rule, others just want to make sure you have one. But it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Unity Village
Lee’s Summit, MO
I absolutely love Unity Village’s stunning Mediterranean style structures and bridges.. Did you know that this is the world headquarters for the Unity Church and is actually a real “village”? So neat! It has around a hundred local residents. I’ve been to several beautiful weddings in the courtyard and garden here. While it is one of my favorite places to photograph, I don’t get the chance to very often anymore. They now require expensive photography permits - $100 for one day! If you have your heart set on a photo shoot at Unity, make sure that you and your photographer respect their regulations and purchase the permit. It’s not pleasant, or cheap, but it’s the right thing to do.
Vaile Mansion
Independence, MO
Built by Colonel and Mrs. Harvey Vaile in 1881, this 3-story, 31 room mansion in Independence, Missouri, sits in solitary splendor, an architectural anomaly among the surrounding Midwestern homes. The Vaile Victorian Mansion is truly a beautiful place for maternity, senior or couple portraits.
Warnock Lake
Atchison, Kansas
Watkins Mill State Park
Lawson, MO
Watkins Mill State Park is just outside of Kearney, MO and offers a 100-acre lake, trails, fields, green areas, a unique bridge, 19th century school-house and woolen textile mill. It’s georgeous for families willing to explore the expanse of the park. FYI - mileage rates apply for a session at Watkins Mill State Park (unless you book your session on the weekend I camp their annually with my church).
West Bottoms
Kansas City, MO
The West Bottoms were founded in the 1860’s with the arrival of the railroads and was the original downtown Kansas City. It would not be until the late 1990’s that a quiet renaissance started to renew it’s former glory. Each building has a unique story and history. All of that character makes for some fabulous and diverse backdrops for those who want a more urban feel. When the weather is nice, you are guaranteed to see several other photo shoots taking place, especially on the weekends. The good news is, there are tons of spots to choose from, so even though there will be others wandering about, you will have plenty of options.
Weston (Downtown)
Weston, MO
Downtown Weston is a great choice if you’re up for a little walking. There are so many cute buildings and interesting alleyways on Main Street. Many of my clients choose to do a portion of their session in downtown Weston and then go back to my farm, or Weston Bend State Park, for a different look.
Weston Bend State Park
Weston, MO
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World War I Memorial
Kansas City, MO
If you’re looking for a backdrop that shouts, “I Love Kansas City!”, you need to have your session at the WWI Memorial. It offers amazing views of Union Station, Western Auto, and the KC Cityscape. There are also long stair cases, a wall of greenery, and some spots with trees, giving you a lot of variety if you’re willing and able to walk around.
A word of caution - do NOT climb on the ledges here. Not only is it not safe, you’ll also get yelled at over the intercom by a security guard in a tower. I witness this almost every time I’m there.
Your Own Special Location!
Why not schedule your portrait session to be held at your OWN special location?! Whether it be your grandparents farm, or inside your own home, incorporating a piece of your story into the background of your images makes them all the more special.
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