Stunning Spring Photo Locations in New Orleans for Perfect Portraits

Trying to figure out where to take your spring photos this year? I’ve got you covered! After years of photographing families all over New Orleans, I’ve narrowed down my three absolute favorite Stunning Spring Photo Locations in New Orleans for Perfect Portraits – each offering something totally different! Whether you are dreaming of classic floral backdrops, unique urban settings, or wild and natural landscapes, this guide will help you choose the perfect spot just for your family. Let’s take one more thing off your plate and make location choice easy!

New Orleans Manicured Gardens

For those looking for a private, spacious garden setting with plenty of room for children to explore, manicured gardens offer a stunning and romantic backdrop. These New Orleans gardens feature a variety of seasonal blooms, serene pathways, and picturesque fountains, creating an enchanting atmosphere perfect for capturing playful, intimate, and storybook-like portraits.

Longue Vue House & Gardens

Address: 7 Bamboo Rd, New Orleans, LA 70124
Website: www.longuevue.com

Why I Love Photos at Longue Vue House & Gardens

Longue Vue offers formal gardens, lush greenery, and charming fountains that make for a stunning and timeless setting. I personally photograph my own children there every spring. Before a photo session, I walk the expansive New Orleans gardens to see what is in bloom and what will make the best background for your growing kids and there is no problem finding a new corner of the gardens to explore if this is your second or third time doing photos there.

Family-Friendliness Factor:

• Great for all ages – Toddlers can roam safely on the open lawns, while teens, parents and grandparents can enjoy the beautiful surroundings at their own pace.
• Kid-friendly features – Open spaces, shaded seating areas, and visually engaging elements like fountains and flower beds keep little ones entertained.
• Accessibility considerations – Paved pathways make it easy for strollers and wheelchairs, ensuring an enjoyable experience for families with special needs or mobility concerns.

Practical Details:

• Parking availability – Ample on-site parking makes it easy for families to access the gardens without a long walk.
• Bathroom facilities – Restrooms are available near the entrance, ensuring convenience for families with young children.
• Terrain considerations – The gardens feature mostly paved pathways, making them stroller-friendly and accessible for individuals with mobility concerns.

Best Spots Within This Location:

• The Spanish Court – A beautifully manicured space with symmetrical fountains and blooming seasonal flowers, perfect for romantic and classic portraits.
• The Wild Garden – A more natural and whimsical setting with native plants and a relaxed atmosphere, great for capturing playful family moments.
• Hidden Courtyards – Secluded alcoves with ivy-covered walls and charming benches that provide an intimate, storybook-like feel.

Seasonal Sweet Spot:

• Peak Bloom Time – Springtime at Longue Vue is at its best from late March to early May, when azaleas, wisteria, and camellias are in full bloom.
• Changing Landscape – Early spring brings bright, fresh greens and delicate blossoms, while later months showcase fuller floral displays and deeper hues.
• Timing Your Session – Early morning or late afternoon in the gardens casts a warm glow on the pathways and fountains, creating a dreamy, ethereal aesthetic. The gardens are open from 9:30am-5pm in the spring.

New Orleans Botanical Garden

Address: 5 Victory Ave, New Orleans, LA 70124 (Located in City Park)
Website: www.neworleanscitypark.com/botanical-garden

Why I Love City Park Botanical Gardens for Portraits

This botanical wonderland boasts colorful seasonal blooms year round, but is especially special in the springtime. I love taking my clients around the expansive gardens and surprising them with a secret bamboo garden, cactus greenhouse, and hidden pathways. It’s ideal for vibrant, nature-inspired photography with a refined and artistic feel and for letting a little one play on the giant butterfly bench.

Family-Friendliness Factor

• Kid-friendly features – The butterfly garden and unique sculptures add an element of wonder for children.
• Accessibility considerations – Paved walkways and seating areas accommodate strollers and wheelchairs.

Practical Details:

• Parking availability – On-site parking is available near the entrance for easy access.
• Bathroom facilities – Restrooms are conveniently located within the gardens

Terrain considerations

• Mostly flat, paved pathways make for an easy stroll with strollers or wheelchairs.

Best Spots Within This Location:

For breathtaking family portraits, consider these Stunning Spring Photo Locations in New Orleans for Perfect Portraits that offer a mix of natural beauty and urban charm.

• Rose Garden – A romantic setting featuring blooming roses in soft pinks, reds, and whites, perfect for dreamy portraits.
• Tropical Rainforest Pavilion – A lush, exotic backdrop ideal for vibrant and unique photos.
• The Japanese Bamboo Garden – A secret garden filled with lush bamboo and a serene atmosphere.

Seasonal Sweet Spot:

• Peak Bloom Time – Mid-March through May brings tulips, irises, and roses into full bloom.
• Changing Landscape – The garden evolves from early spring’s fresh pastels to late spring’s bold, tropical hues.
• Timing Your Session – Early mornings offer golden light, while late afternoons provide a soft, warm glow.

Ideal Timing and Lighting:

These Stunning Spring Photo Locations in New Orleans for Perfect Portraits ensure that your photographs are not only beautiful but also memorable.

• Best time of day for photos – Mornings are quietest and pretty light, or overcast days for soft, even lighting.
• How light moves through this space – Open areas have bright sunlight, while pergolas and trees create natural diffusers.
• Weather considerations – Mild spring temperatures with occasional showers. Avoid harsh midday light in open areas.

Preparing for Photos at a Manicured Garden in New Orleans

Crowd Expectations

Weekends tend to be busier with visitors and events for both locations, while weekdays provide a quieter atmosphere for uninterrupted sessions. Arriving early in the morning or near closing time can help avoid peak crowds and we can seek out hidden garden alcoves for more private moments even during busier times. Both of these spots are popular springtime photo locations in New Orleans.

Permit Information

Photo permits are required for professional photography both at Longue Vue House and Gardens ($150 per hour) and at City Park Botanical Gardens ($75). Their fee and application details can be found on their website and are limited per date so it’s best to plan ahead. Photographer’s often purchase the permit ahead of time for Longue Vue (which has limited dates) or the day of at the Botanical Gardens.

Weather Contingency Plan

In case of rain, both gardens have covered walkways and porches that provide some shelter. Cloudy days can enhance the soft, romantic feel of the space, while light rain may add a whimsical touch to portraits. For heavy rain, we can always reschedule.

Outfit Recommendations

Soft pastels, floral patterns, and flowing fabrics complement the romantic garden setting. Earthy tones and neutrals blend beautifully with the natural elements, while light-colored outfits help reflect the garden’s soft light. Make sure to check out my Spring What to Wear Guide for more inspiration.

The Best Urban Gardens in New Orleans for Photos

These locations blend lush landscapes with a relaxed, natural atmosphere, offering a mix of organic beauty and open spaces. They are perfect for capturing dynamic images with a balance of nature and city energy.

City Park

Address: 1 Palm Dr, New Orleans, LA 70124
Website: www.neworleanscitypark.com

Why I Love Photos at City Park

Sometimes it’s hard to believe that New Orleans has an expansive urban park that features centuries-old oak trees draped in Spanish moss, stone bridges, and picturesque lagoons. And in the springtime, forgotten spaces come alive with flowers. In early spring the Azalea bushes line the pathways and the manicured tulip patches emerge in front of the Museum of Art. The jasmine vines under the pavilion and the rose garden start to shine in April and by May the wild flowers at the end of Roosevelt Mall begin to pop-up. Not too mention the span of little yellow flowers that burst up in March and stick around through May.

Family-Friendliness Factor:

• Great for all ages – Expansive green spaces and shaded picnic areas offer fun for all generations.
• Kid-friendly features – Playgrounds, Storyland, and the Big Lake walking path provide plenty of engaging activities after your photos.
• Accessibility considerations – Smooth walking paths and designated wheelchair-accessible areas ensure comfort for all visitors.

Practical Details:

• Parking availability – Multiple parking lots throughout the park make it easy to find a spot near your chosen photography location.
• Bathroom facilities – Public restrooms are available near the main attractions.
• Terrain considerations – Mostly flat, but some grassy areas may require extra care with strollers or wheelchairs.

Best Spots Within This Location:

• Peristyle Pavilion – A grand, columned structure overlooking a tranquil lagoon, perfect for classic portraits.
• Stone Bridges – Iconic, fairy-tale-like backdrops over the park’s waterways.
• Oak Tree Canopies – Capture golden light filtering through the sprawling live oaks.
• Wild Areas – The unkept and wild landscape of a former golf course in the park is perfect for those big fields at sunset photos.

Seasonal Sweet Spot:

• Peak Bloom Time – Azaleas and camellias bloom in March and April, while lush greenery remains throughout spring.
• Changing Landscape – Early spring brings delicate pinks and whites, while later months feature deeper greens and rich floral accents.
• Timing Your Session – Sunset near the Big Lake offers incredible golden-hour lighting and early morning under the big oak trees is magical.

Crescent Park

Address: 2300 N Peters St, New Orleans, LA 70117
Website: www.nola.gov/parks-and-parkways/crescent-park

Why I love Photos at Crescent Park in the Springtime

This gorgeous urban park located down the Mississippi River from the French Quarter and near the funky neighborhood of the Bywater, is filled with a contemporary yet natural setting. Crescent Park offers striking views of the Mississippi River, modern industrial architecture, and green spaces with a fresh, urban aesthetic.

Family-Friendliness Factor:

• Great for all ages – The park’s wide pathways and open spaces are great for kids to run around and play while providing ample seating for older family members.
• Kid-friendly features – The park is a great place to bring roller skates or a razor to let your kids explore.
• Accessibility considerations – The park is designed with smooth, paved paths suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. There are three entry points to the park. The middle one requires steep stairs over the rust rainbow bridge and the rear entrance requires a few blocks of walking from the parking lot. The main entrance does have an elevator but it can be out of order.

Practical Details:

• Parking availability – Ample parking is available in nearby lots and on-street spaces.
• Bathroom facilities – Public restrooms are located near the main entrance.
• Terrain considerations – The pathways are mostly flat and accessible for all mobility levels.

Best Spots Within This Location:

• The Riverfront Promenade – Offers stunning views of the Mississippi River, perfect for capturing wide-angle family portraits.
• The Scenic Overlook – A great spot for a scenic skyline and urban feel with the old wharf overhead.
• Urban Art Installations – Unique backdrops that reflect the city’s artistic vibe including the surrounding murals.

Seasonal Sweet Spot:

• Peak Bloom Time – Spring brings blooming wildflowers and vibrant greenery, especially from late March to May.
• Changing Landscape – Early spring features fresh blooms and greenery, while later months enhance the park’s lushness.
• Timing Your Session – Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best lighting and fewer crowds.

Audubon Park

Address: 6500 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70118
Website: www.audubonnatureinstitute.org/audubon-park

Why I love Photos at Audubon Park in the Springtime

Much like City Park, Audubon Park is vast. I have my favorite locations to photograph year round, but it’s the front garden across from Tulane Ave. that is the prettiest in the Spring. The round fountain is curated with blooms that bring in the butterflies. The round benches are a perfect spot for photos and a short walk leads to majestic oaks and the tranquil lagoons. For something a little different, the Tree of Life and the old zoo entrance with the children’s fountain can be so fun for kids!

Family-Friendliness Factor:

• Great for all ages – The park’s spacious layout accommodates families with children and seniors.
• Kid-friendly features – The playgrounds and open fields are perfect for kids to explore and play after your photos.
• Accessibility considerations – Paved walkways throughout the park ensure easy navigation for strollers and wheelchairs.

Practical Details:

• Parking availability – Ample parking is available, with multiple lots close to entrances.
• Bathroom facilities – Restrooms are conveniently located within the park.
• Terrain considerations – Mostly flat, but some paths can be uneven in natural areas.

Best Spots Within This Location:

• The Front Garden Fountain – Filled with a butterfly garden and blooms.
• The Tree of Life + Labyrinth – The iconic large tree provides a majestic backdrop for family photos.
• The Lagoons – Captivating reflections and lush surroundings create beautiful portrait opportunities.
• The Children’s Fountain – Perfect in May (and summer) when you want to get your feet wet with your kids.

Seasonal Sweet Spot:

• Peak Bloom Time – Late March through April is when the park is at its most colorful, with azaleas, magnolias, and wildflowers creating a stunning natural display.
• Changing Landscape – Early spring showcases fresh green foliage and soft pink blossoms, while late spring brings fuller, deeper greens and warm golden light filtering through the ancient oaks.
• Timing Your Session – The golden hour light filtering through the park’s sprawling oak branches creates an enchanting glow, making late afternoon the ideal time for dreamy portraits. Mornings offer a fresh, crisp atmosphere, while mid-day can be bright but manageable under the tree canopies.

Crowd Expectations – All three of these urban parks can be busy on weekends, especially during events or good weather. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays or early mornings. For photos, we can always look for quieter spots.

Permit Information – No permit is needed for casual photography.

Weather Contingency Plan – In case of rain, there are several covered areas in the park to take shelter. Overcast days provide softer light, perfect for photography. For heavy rain we can always reschedule.

Outfit Recommendations – Earthy tones and pastels work beautifully in this natural setting. Light, flowing fabrics will complement the park’s relaxed vibe.

Iconic Neighborhoods in New Orleans

For a vibrant, artistic, and culturally rich backdrop, the urban areas of New Orleans offer stunning historic architecture, intricate ironwork, and charming streets perfect for capturing the spirit of the city.

The French Quarter

Aesthetic: Lively, historic, and colorful
With pastel-hued buildings, overflowing flower boxes, and intricate balconies, the French Quarter is a perfect location for energetic, classic, and charismatic portraits.

Why I love Springtime Photos in the French Quarter

There’s something truly magical about photographing in the French Quarter during springtime. The historic architecture, with its intricate wrought-iron balconies and colorful facades, is even more enchanting when framed by blooming jasmine and lush greenery spilling over courtyards. I love the mix of textures—the weathered shutters, cobblestone alleys, and antique street lamps all add depth and character to every photo. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind spring photo locations.

Family-Friendliness Factor:

• Great for all ages – The vibrant atmosphere and street performers engage kids, while adults appreciate the history and architecture.
• Kid-friendly features – There’s lots of hand holding as we walk around the neighborhood with a few stops in open areas if possible. The colorful houses and stoups make for great photos and easy perches for little ones.
• Accessibility considerations – Older sidewalks and streets may be challenging for strollers; consider using carriers for younger children.

Practical Details:

• Parking availability – Street parking is limited, so plan to arrive early or use nearby parking garages.
• Bathroom facilities – Public restrooms are scarce; consider stopping at local cafes.
• Terrain considerations – Older sidewalks can be uneven, so take care with strollers or wheelchairs.

Seasonal Sweet Spot:

• Peak Bloom Time – Spring brings beautiful flowers along the manicured balconies and front stoops.
• Timing Your Session – Early mornings offer quiet streets for portraits with less people to maneuver around and I find is the best time for photos in the French Quarter.
• The quieter, more residential section of the French Quarter, near Cabrini Park, is a great starting point for portraits in this iconic area.

The Garden District

Aesthetic: Southern charm, grand, and timeless
Known for its historic mansions, intricate ironwork, and wisteria-covered facades, the Garden District is perfect for sophisticated and classic portraits that exude elegance.

Why I love Spring Photos in the Garden District

The Garden District perfectly embodies Southern charm and elegance. The grand historic mansions, framed by cascading wisteria and vibrant azaleas, create a breathtakingly romantic setting. The soft, golden light filtering through the ancient Magnolia trees, in bloom in May and June, enhances the warmth and timeless beauty of this neighborhood, making every portrait feel like a scene from a classic novel. I especially love the intricate ironwork, ivy-covered facades, and pastel-colored homes that add depth and texture to every shot. 

Family-Friendliness Factor:

• Great for all ages – The picturesque surroundings provide a lovely backdrop for family members of all ages.
• Kid-friendly features – The area’s beauty and charm engage children, encouraging exploration, not to mention that above-ground cemetery that is so interesting to wander after your photos.
• Accessibility considerations – Most streets are accessible, but be mindful of uneven sidewalks.

Practical Details:

• Parking availability – Street parking is available.
• Bathroom facilities – Public restrooms are not available; but there are plenty of coffee shops to visit.
• Terrain considerations – Uneven sidewalks in some areas may pose challenges for strollers or wheelchairs.

Best Spots Within This Location:

• Washington Avenue – Iconic oak-lined street with historic mansions, perfect for elegant family portraits.
• Wisteria-Laden Homes – Capture the charm of the area with blooming wisteria as a backdrop.
• Intricate Ironwork – Beautiful gates and balconies create stunning details in portraits.

Seasonal Sweet Spot:

• Peak Bloom Time – Late March to early May is ideal for capturing the beautiful blooms of azaleas and wisteria.
• Changing Landscape – Spring enhances the area’s beauty, with vibrant flowers and lush greenery.
• Timing Your Session – Early mornings or late afternoons provide soft lighting and fewer tourists.

Preparing for Photos at an Iconic New Orleans Neighborhood

Crowd Expectations – Weekends can be busy with visitors exploring the neighborhood. To find quieter spots, visit during weekday mornings or early afternoons. We always look for hidden corners away from walking tours and larger groups. Mornings are the quietest in both the French Quarter and the Garden District. It’s a busy spot for springtime photo locations in New Orleans.

Permit Information – Casual photography does not typically require a permit.

Weather Contingency Plan – If it rains, we can jump under a nearby covered area or cafes as backup locations. Overcast days can provide even, flattering light for portraits. For heavy rain we can always reschedule.

Outfit Recommendations – Classic, elegant outfits in soft colors work beautifully against the historic backdrop. Light, breathable fabrics are ideal for warm spring days, while comfortable shoes are essential for walking around as we search for the springtime photo locations in New Orleans.

Stunning Spring Photo Locations in New Orleans for Perfect Portraits

Spring in New Orleans provides a variety of breathtaking backdrops, from lush New Orleans gardens to vibrant cityscapes. Whether you want a polished garden, a natural escape, or an urban scene, there’s a perfect location waiting to be captured! These Stunning Spring Photo Locations in New Orleans for Perfect Portraits are sure to leave you with beautiful memories and photographs that you will cherish forever.

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