Hello lovelies! So, you’ve just booked your photoshoot with me and now you’re wondering what location you should choose for your family photoshoot. A lot of my wonderful clients are from out of State and sometimes need some guidance on when it comes to choosing a location for their photoshoot. But don’t worry, I’m here to take the pressure off. I have put together a list of local spots that I think you’ll love. So, without any further ado, let’s get into my list of amazing photoshoot locations in the Central Florida area that I love the most and highly recommend.

Cypress Grove Park in Orlando.

Address: 290 Holden Ave, Orlando, FL 32839

Hours of operation: 8:00AM-8:00PM

First up is this wonderful location that I just know you’ll love. Cypress Grove Park is a huge ninety-acre park around a 1920's mansion & lake. Imagine towering oak trees draped in Spanish moss, a beautiful white mansion straight out of a Southern fairytale, with stunning lakeside views that make every photo look dreamy (Especially at sunset). This is my go-to location for large families, family reunions, and family vacations because of the abundance of space and diversity you can add to your collection. It’s also fun for the little ones with tons of space to run around and enjoy themselves.

Best time of day to shoot here!
Spring and Summer: 8AM-9AM or 6PM-8PM (An hour before sunset)
Fall and Winter: 9AM-12PM or 4PM-6PM

Pregnant woman posing for a maternity photoshoot at Cypress Grove Park in Orlando during sunset. — Cypress Grove Park

Lake Runnymede Conservation Area

Address: 4600 Rummell Rd, St Cloud FL, 34771

Hours of operation: 7AM-8:30PM

Let me introduce you to my absolute favorite photoshoot location in Central Florida. Lake Runnymede Conservation Area. This fourty-three acre preserve is located along Lake Runnymede and neighbors East Lake Tohopekaliga in St. Cloud. And why is it my favorite location? Because it’s gorgeous at any time of day, that’s why! It seems like no matter what time of day I shoot here, the lighting is always stunning. It is especially gorgeous an hour before sunset— Think light filtering through the trees, giving off the perfect sun flare… just, chef’s kiss! If you like the long grass at sunset vibe, Lake Runnymede Conservation Area has a grassy area behind the trees that looks amazing on photos!

This location is perfect for any type of photoshoot— Family, maternity, graduation, couple’s, engagement, you name it! I’ll let the images below speak for themselves.

Best time of day to shoot here!
Spring and Summer: 8AM-11AM or 6PM-8PM
Fall and Winter: 9AM-12PM or 4PM-6PM

Mom in a mint green dress holding her baby daughter. both are posing and smiling for the camera in a wooded area that is softly lit — Lake Runnymede Conservation Area

Woman walking with her child through tall grass at Lake Runnymede Conservation Area in Saint Cloud — Lake Runnymede Conservation Area

Shingle Creek Regional Park — Steffee Landing

Address: 4280 W Vine St, Kissimmee, FL 34741

Hours of operation: 8AM-6PM

Are you looking for something quiet and lowkey? Steffee Landing at Shingle Creek is just that. Located smack bang in the middle of Kissimmee, you’d think this place would be busy but it really isn’t. In fact, the atmosphere here is very laid back. We would begin our session off at the bridge next to the entrance that a lot of my clients love to take photos at. Steffee Landing also offers several trails with amazing lighting in both the morning or the evening. It’s close to Disney and the tourist area, meaning less driving for you!

This location is perfect for:

Family photos
Couples & engagement photography
Graduation photos
Maternity sessions
Gender reveals(Although I am against littering, so I do not offer confetti shoots in public)
Best time of day to shoot here!
Spring and Summer: 8AM-10AM or 5PM-6PM
Fall and Winter: 9AM-12PM or 4PM-5PM

Brother and Sister posing for a photo on a trail inside Shingle Creek Regional Park (Laura Jessica Photography). — Shingle Creek Regional Park - Steffee Landing

Mead Botanical Gardens

Address: 1300 S Denning Dr, Winter Park, FL 32789

Hours of operation: 8AM-7PM

If you’re looking for a photoshoot location that feels like a wild adventure through nature’s most beautiful secret corners, Mead Botanical Garden is the place! It’s a sprawling 47 acres of lush greenery, blooming flowers, and winding pathways that make every turn a little magical. Whether we’re capturing sweet moments by the butterfly garden or taking epic shots under the shade of towering trees, this place has so much variety. We can even adventure over to the little creek where several of my clients have even taken their shoes off and gone for a splash before! Super cute for photos and gives you a chance to cool off in Summer. Located in Winter Park, it is about a 30-40 minute drive from the Disney area (Depending on traffic) but it is totally worth the drive in my opinion.

Mead Botanical Gardens is perfect for:

Family photoshoots
Maternity photoshoots
Graduation photos
Couple’s & engagement photos

Best time of day to shoot here!
Spring and Summer: 8AM-11AM
Fall and Winter: 9AM-12PM

Young woman in a white dress, laughing and smiling by a creek at Mead botanical Gardens in Winter Park Fl — Mead Botanical Gardens

Saint Cloud Lakefront

Address: 1104 Lakeshore Blvd, St. Cloud, FL 34769

Hours of operation: 7AM-8PM

Saint Cloud Lakefront is a small beachy area that is a lovely option for those who want to go for the for the beach vibe, but don’t want the hassle of driving the family all the way to the coast for a photoshoot. Before and during golden hour, it makes for magical photos! For those who are centralized, the drive easy!

Tip: Lakefront is located not even five minutes away from Lake Runnymede Conservation Area. To add some spice and variety to your collection, add an additional 15 minutes when booking and we can do 30 minutes at each location! — Only if you’re up for it though!

Lakefront is great for:

Maternity photos
Couple’s & engagements
Family (Small or large)
Graduation photos

Best time of day to shoot here!
Spring and Summer: 6PM-8PM
Fall and Winter: 5PM-6PM

Woman in a blue dress and boho hat posing on the beach, holding her babybump — Saint Cloud Lakefront

Mother closing her eyes and holding her child on a beach posing for a photoshoot. Mom is wearing a blue summer dress and baby is wearing denim overalls. — Saint Cloud Lakefront

Celebration, FL

Location: Kissimmee

Celebration, FL is like stepping into a picture-perfect postcard! With its charming streets, colorful homes, and beautifully maintained parks, this town feels kinda like a dream that is sure to wow anyone from out of town. Designed with a blend of classic small-town vibes and a touch of Disney magic, it offers endless photo-worthy spots, whether it's the romantic lakeside views, quaint bridges, or charming downtown storefronts. The mix of elegance and whimsy makes Celebration a top pick for capturing everything from family portraits to engagements. Every corner feels like a movie set, making your photos stand out with timeless, scenic beauty! If you’re staying in the Disney / Reunion area then you’re right around the corner.

Tip: Hit up Starbucks or the local ice creamery and add some Lifestyle-type photos to your collection!

Celebration is a great option for:

Family photos
Lifestyle photos
Maternity sessions
Headshots
Engagement photoshoots

Best time of day to shoot here!
Spring and Summer: 8AM-9AM or 6PM-8PM
Fall and Winter: 9AM-11AM or 5PM to 7PM

Mom, Dad, and daughter wearing Western type gear, enjoying a family moment on a boardwalk in Celebration, FL — Celebration, FL.

Couple holding their baby wearing all blue posing for a photoshoot in Celebration, FL. Laura Jessica Photography — Celebration, FL.

Kraft Azalea Garden

Address: 1365 Alabama Dr, Winter Park, FL 32789

Hours of operation: 8AM-7PM

This cozy little park is tucked away on the shores of Lake Maitland and is a popular choice for photographers and their clients. The towering cypress trees covered in Spanish moss give it that ethereal, otherworldly vibe, making every photo feel like a work of art. It’s especially amazing for golden hour, when the sun filters through the trees, casting that soft, golden glow on everything. It’s perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your portraits! I love bringing clients here because it feels peaceful, secluded, and full of natural beauty. You can literally feel the magic in the air, and your photos will reflect that. It’s a true gem for anyone wanting timeless, breathtaking shots! If you like to avoid the heat, this location is very shaded. If you want soft glowy photos, you’ve got it. If you want dark and moody shots, guess what? You’ve also got it. This location is very diverse and pleasant to work out of.

This location is best for:

Family photoshoots (Small or large)
Maternity photos
Engagement
Graduation shots
Weddings
Headshots

Best time of day to shoot here!
Spring and Summer: 8AM-9AM or 5PM-8PM
Fall and Winter: 9AM-12PM or 4PM to 6PM

Mom, Dad, and Son sitting on a bench in a park during golden hour — Kraft Azalea Garden

Large family posing for a photo in Kraft Azalea Garden in Orlando, all wearing bright colored clothing and smiling in front of a pavilion and trees — Kraft Azalea Garden

Ralph V. Chisholm Regional Park

Address: 4700 Chisholm Park Trail St. Cloud, FL 34771

Hours of operation: 8AM-5PM

Chisholm Park is one of those hidden gems that I love bringing clients to for photoshoots! Nestled on the shores of East Lake Tohopekaliga in St. Cloud, it’s got a little bit of everything: sandy beaches, wide-open fields, tall palm trees, and a dock that stretches out over the water—perfect for those dreamy sunset shots.

One of my favorite things about Chisholm Park is its versatility. You want beachy vibes? Done. Tall, dramatic palms? Got ‘em. Open grassy areas perfect for kids to run around in family sessions? Absolutely! And the best part? You’re never competing with crowds here, so it feels like your own personal, peaceful slice of Florida beauty.

Perfect for:

Graduates
Maternity shoot
Family sessions
Engagement sessions

Best time to shoot here!
Spring & Summer: 8AM-11AM or one hour before sunset/closing
Fall & Winter : 9AM-12PM or one hour before sunset/closing

A family of three playing together on a beach in Saint Cloud, Florida during sunset wearing dress casual clothing — Ralph V Chisholm Regional Park

Downtown Lake Nona

Oh Downtown Lake Nona! Stepping away from the woodsy, outdoor vibes and stepping into a more urban setting. It’s like stepping into a super modern, colorful playground that offers endless variety for capturing fun, candid moments. The clean, contemporary architecture mixed with bright murals and stylish public spaces gives off those cool, city vibes, perfect for shoots that are full of personality.

Perfect for:

Graduates
Maternity shoots
Family sessions
Engagement sessions

Best time of day to shoot here!
Spring & Summer - 8AM-7PM
Fall & Winter 9AM-6PM

Woman with red hair looking at her phone in a parking garage. Wearing all black and posing for a photo. — Downtown Lake Nona.

Woman in a red coat posing in front of a colorful wall during a Lifestyle photoshoot in Lake Nona FL — Downtown Lake Nona

Your Home (Or rental)

If you’re from out of town and simply too tired or too overwhelmed to drive to a location, I’m totally down for an in-home, lifestyle-type photoshoot at your rental. In fact, I do that a lot, mainly for large families who are renting an Airbnb and have had a long few days at the theme parks and do not wish to drive more than they have to. It may not give off the same outdoorsy or urban vibe as some of the other locations but it’s something we can rock! No time limits, more flexibility on booking because we aren’t avoiding the sun. It's a fun and it’s an easy option. Easier for little ones, meaning, easier for the grown ones!

Thank you for taking the time out of your day to read this post. I hope that at least one of these locations speak to you. If not, don’t worry, I have more locations up my sleeve.

BOOK ME!

Secret Spots & Scenic Gems: Your Go-To Central Florida Photoshoot Guide