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Location, location, location: How to Choose

THE FARM // Carlton, Minnesota

One of the most common questions I get regarding sessions: where is the best location?! Answer: the options are endless. Northern Minnesota offers so many amazing options with so much variety, from sandy beaches to tall pines to rocky shores and open fields.

I have many go-to location favorites, listed below, but one thing I also like my families to know is that you’re not limited to this list! Is there a special spot that you go to year after year as a family to relax? Do you love your backyard? Is Grandma’s field a family favorite, or do you enjoy picnics at a certain park? These sessions are about documenting your family here + now, emphasizing your personalities and relationships to each other, and adding a special location to the mix can add extra meaning to your photographs.

BACKYARD SESSION // Duluth, Minnesota

A special location is not a requirement, however – I have many favorite locations that I’ve used time after time, and that can also reflect your family’s personality! Love hiking and spending time in the woods? Are you all about that lake life, and enjoy the sand between your toes? Are you envisioning a simple outdoors session with fields and trees? Check out the lists below for my favorites!

BACKYARD SESSION // Moose Lake, Minnesota

WOODS + FIELDS

  • Jay Cooke State Park // Carlton, MN [woods + river + indoor picnic area, great for warming up in the winter months]
  • The Farm // Carlton, MN [tall pines + open field + rustic barn structures]
  • North Shore // Duluth, MN [multiple locations along the North Shore: pines + rocky shores + lake superior]

LAKES + BEACHES

  • North Shore // Duluth, MN [multiple locations along the North Shore: pines + rocky shores + lake superior]
  • Park Point // Duluth, MN [sandy beach + tall grass + lake superior]
  • Hay Lake // Carlton, MN [nearby The Farm – great option if you’re looking for a few lake photos + open field + pines]

PARK POINT // Duluth, Minnesota

LIFESTYLE SESSION // Duluth, Minnesota

URBAN

  • Canal Park // Duluth, MN [brick buildings + rocky shore + lakewalk]

Above are a few of my tried-and-true locations that are my go-to suggestions. However, I love exploring, and I love hearing your ideas! If you have a specific location in mind, let me know!

Keep in mind, every session will be unique. If you have a location that you love, but don’t want to use it because everyone is getting their photos taken there – don’t worry! It’s my goal to make each lifestyle session unique based on your family. Your photos will represent you and your family, and a gorgeous location will only enhance that, whether others have used that location or not.