Best Place In Columbus To Take Family Photos
Family Session At The Photo Studio- The Que Studio In Columbus Ohio
Finding the perfect location for family photos can make all the difference. Whether you're planning updated family portraits, holiday photos, maternity pictures, milestone photos or simply want to document this season of life, Ohio has plenty of beautiful locations to choose from.
From flower-filled gardens and open fields to charming city streets and indoor photography studios, there’s a backdrop for just about every family and every style.
If you're searching for the best places to take family photos in Ohio, here are some of our favorite options — including several beautiful locations right here in Columbus.
1. Inniswood Metro Gardens – Westerville, Ohio
For families who love greenery, flowers and a timeless outdoor look, Inniswood Metro Gardens is one of the most beautiful family photo locations in Central Ohio.
The 123-acre property features more than 2,000 species of plants along with landscaped gardens, wooded areas, walking paths, bridges and seasonal blooms. With so much variety in one location, your photographer can create several different looks without your family having to travel between locations.
Best for:
Spring and summer family photos, maternity sessions, milestone portraits and families looking for a soft, natural setting.
Photography tip: Inniswood is a popular photography location, so weekday evenings can be a great option if you're hoping for fewer people in the background.
2. The Que Studio – Columbus, Ohio
Of course, outdoor photos aren't always the best option — especially in Ohio.
Rain, snow, extreme heat, cold temperatures and unpredictable weather can quickly change plans for an outdoor family session. That's where an indoor photography studio can be the perfect alternative.
The Que Studio offers a natural-light photography space in Columbus with thoughtfully designed areas that give photographers and families the ability to create multiple looks during one session.
Instead of worrying about the weather, muddy shoes, wind or finding the perfect outdoor location, families can enjoy a comfortable environment while still getting beautiful, elevated images.
Our studio also changes throughout the year with updated furniture, backdrops and seasonal installations, giving families opportunities to create something different each time they visit.
Best for:
Family portraits, holiday photos, maternity sessions, birthdays, milestone sessions, newborn photos and families who prefer a clean, editorial or lifestyle-inspired look.
And one of the biggest advantages? Your session isn't dependent on the weather.
3. Columbus Park of Roses – Columbus, Ohio
If flowers are part of your vision, Columbus Park of Roses is a Columbus favorite.
Located inside Whetstone Park, the Park of Roses offers beautiful gardens, walking paths and plenty of greenery. During peak blooming season, the roses create a colorful backdrop that can make family photos feel romantic, bright and timeless.
There are also areas beyond the roses that can work beautifully for portraits, giving your photographer some variety throughout the session.
Best for:
Spring and summer family sessions, Mother's Day portraits, maternity sessions and colorful outdoor photos.
4. German Village & Schiller Park – Columbus, Ohio
Want family photos that feel a little more like Columbus?
German Village offers beautiful brick streets, historic homes, charming architecture and plenty of texture. Pairing a walk through German Village with photos at nearby Schiller Park can give you both an urban and natural look during the same session.
This is especially beautiful during fall when the brick, mature trees and autumn colors create a warm backdrop.
Best for:
Lifestyle family photos, fall sessions and families who want something more urban than a traditional park.
5. The Scioto Mile – Downtown Columbus
For a modern family session with the city in the background, Scioto Mile is a great choice.
The downtown riverfront offers views of the Columbus skyline, bridges, pathways, greenery and the Scioto River. It's a great way to create family portraits that feel connected to the city while still incorporating outdoor scenery.
Families can also explore nearby Bicentennial Park for even more views of downtown.
Best for:
Modern family portraits, older children and teens, anniversary photos and families who love the city.
6. Franklin Park – Columbus, Ohio
Franklin Park offers plenty of room to create natural, relaxed family photos. You'll find mature trees, pathways, greenery and beautiful landscaping without having to travel far from downtown Columbus.
Nearby Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens also offers gorgeous botanical scenery, although organized portrait sessions inside the Conservatory require advance registration and a photography fee, so make sure to check the current photography policy before planning your session.
Best for:
Classic outdoor family photos, spring sessions, summer portraits and families with younger children who need room to move around.
7. Quarry Trails Metro Park – Columbus, Ohio
If you want something a little more dramatic, Quarry Trails Millikin Falls Area offers a completely different look.
With rock formations, trails, water, bridges and natural scenery, this location can give family photos a more adventurous feel. It's especially beautiful for families who want images that feel candid and less posed.
Best for:
Adventure-inspired family photos, casual sessions and families who love nature.
8. Goodale Park – Columbus, Ohio
Located near the Short North, Goodale Park gives families a great combination of mature trees, open green space and classic Columbus scenery.
Its downtown location also makes it possible to photograph around the park and then incorporate some of the nearby city architecture for additional variety.
Best for:
Spring and fall family sessions, casual lifestyle portraits and families who want both greenery and an urban feel.
Outdoor vs. Indoor Family Photos: Which Should You Choose?
Both can be beautiful — the right choice really depends on the look and experience you want.
Choose an outdoor location if you love:
Natural scenery
Golden-hour sunlight
Flowers and greenery
Candid movement
Seasonal colors
Choose a photography studio if you want:
A controlled environment
Privacy for your family
No weather concerns
Easier outfit changes
Multiple backdrops in one location
A clean, polished or editorial look
A comfortable option for young children
For families scheduling photos during the colder months — or anyone who doesn't want to gamble with Ohio weather — an indoor studio can make planning your session much easier.
When Is the Best Time to Take Family Photos in Ohio?
There really isn't one perfect season.
Spring brings fresh greenery and flowers.
Summer gives you longer days and beautiful evening light.
Fall is one of Ohio's most popular family photography seasons thanks to colorful leaves and comfortable temperatures.
Winter is perfect for holiday portraits and indoor studio sessions.
The most important thing is choosing a location and season that feels like your family.
Planning Family Photos in Columbus, Ohio?
Whether you're dreaming of flowers, city views, fall foliage or a beautifully designed indoor space, Columbus has plenty of options for your next family session.
And if you'd rather skip worrying about the weather altogether, The Que Studio offers a beautiful indoor photography studio in Columbus, Ohio designed for photographers, families and creatives.
Bring your photographer, choose your look and create family photos you'll want to keep on your walls for years to come.
Ready to plan your next family photo session?
Explore The Que Studio and book your studio time at thequestudio.com.
