Columbia provides many stunning places to take photos. It allows the flexibility for clients to be able to take photos in gorgeous natural landscapes and then get some more modern photos in a downtown scene all in one session!
I work with clients to pick locations and decide how many locations a client can fit into one session depending on what their needs are and the package they purchase. Please go to my contact page if you have questions or would like to book a photoshoot.
Keep scrolling to learn about all of the wonderful places Columbia has to offer :)
Cover image taken at Nifong Park
University of Missouri Campus
The University of Missouri is located near the center of Columbia. It is the largest university in Missouri. The campus is broken down into two main areas: red campus and white campus. These names come from the brick and limestone used at different building times for the university. The campus also serves as a botanical garden, which ensures the campus is always covered in beautiful plants. This is the perfect location for students who are currently attending or alumni of the university. The different looks to the campus and the beautiful landscape provides multiple locations for photos. The campus also connects to Columbia's downtown for clients
Downtown
Columbia, Missouri, contains a beautiful downtown area. There are so many wonderful local businesses (please shop local!), art galleries, hotels, and churches that reside in gorgeous buildings. Downtown is mostly made up of brick buildings but also has murals in several spots. Clients have taken photos inside and outside of many buildings. There are also parking garages, which have been growing in popularity in photography. The downtown vibe is urban but also has a hometown feel.
Capen Park
Capen Park is a 32-acre park located near the University of Missouri. It contains hiking trails, a creek, a bridge, and gorgeous views on rocky bluffs. The hike to the rocky bluffs is relatively short and easy (I was able to climb to the top in a boot with a stress reaction :,) So there is no need to worry about getting sweaty or falling on your way up before taking photos! Also, the lighting on the bluffs is perfect through the trees at sunset. The other spots such as the trail and creek are very easy to get to. The creek could make a very fun end to your session if you would like to jump in!!
A. Perry Phillips Park
A. Perry Phillips Park is located a little south of town. It contains a 1.4-mile trail that outlines a fishing lake and has beautiful fields close to the beginning of the trail. I love the look of the fields and the way the light reflects off of the water. If you don't mind getting a little dirty in the tall grass of the fields, this location is perfect for running through the grass, sitting poses, and laying down poses.
Shelter Gardens
Shelter Gardens is located near the Columbia Mall and is a 5-acre gated botanical garden. There is a really cute path that goes through all of the different areas of the garden. It features over 300 varieties of trees and shrubs and more than 15,000 annuals and perennials. It also includes a waterfall, pond, one-room schoolhouse, and garden for the blind. The garden is open from 8 am to dusk, so it may be best to schedule a photoshoot here at sunset when sunrise occurs well before 8 in the morning.
Rockbridge Memorial State Park
Rockbridge Memorial State Park is located just south of Columbia. It is a huge geological preserve that is 2,273 acres. There are lots of trails to hike, creeks, grasslands, and caves to explore such as Devil's Icebox. This variety of scenery helps people get many different looks to their photos. This is the perfect location for adventurous people or anyone interested in an outdoorsy photoshoot.
Stephans Lake Park
Stephans Lake Park is a large park located near Columbia's downtown. It features a large lake with a trail that goes around and over it with bridges. The park also contains beautiful waterfalls, a splash park, and playgrounds. This would be the perfect location for a picnic photoshoot or even a family shoot with lots of places for children to have fun and show off some smiles.
Grindstone Nature Area
Grindstone Nature Area is located off of old highway 63 and is a 200-acre park. It contains a variety of trails, picnic areas, creeks, and leash-free dog areas. A romantic walk along the trail would provide stunning couples photos and a jump into the creek would be a cute way to finish your photoshoot.
