Where should we take photos?
One of the first questions I get after a senior books their session is, "Where should we take photos?"
The good news? In the Duluth area, we are surrounded by incredible locations. Whether you're looking for an urban vibe, waterfront views, towering pines, historic architecture, or open fields, there is no shortage of beautiful places to create a senior gallery that feels like you.
The best location is not always the most popular one. It's the place that matches your personality, interests, and style. Here are some of my favorite locations throughout Duluth, Cloquet, Superior, Moose Lake, and Willow River.
Duluth's Top 3 Requests
Cana Park
Canal Park remains one of my most requested locations year after year, and for good reason. Within a few blocks, we can incorporate the lake, stone piers, industrial textures, boardwalks, and iconic Duluth scenery. It works especially well for seniors who want a mix of natural and urban backgrounds.
Park Point
If your dream senior session includes sandy beaches, driftwood, tall grasses, and endless Lake Superior views, Park Point is hard to beat. The lighting here is beautiful year round, and it creates a completely different look than Canal Park despite being just across the bridge.
Glensheen Mansion
Glensheen remains one of the most sought-after locations for seniors seeking a timeless and elevated ambiance. Between the gardens, stone architecture, lake views, and winding pathways, there is variety everywhere you look. It is a misconception that this location is only for the ladies, last summer around half of my senior guys had pictures taken here!
Hidden Gems Around Duluth
Enger Tower
Enger Tower offers some of the best views in Duluth. The stonework, walking paths, and surrounding greenery make it especially beautiful during summer and fall sessions.
Chester Creek Area
The Chester Creek area is one of my favorite spots for seniors who want variety without spending time driving between locations. Within a short walk, we can find brick buildings, iron details, greenery, trails, and unique textures that create a diverse gallery.
Downtown Duluth
The Duluth Courthouse area and surrounding streets offer incredible architecture, stone facades, staircases, and urban backdrops. Nearby, the Duluth Public Library provides clean lines and modern elements that photograph beautifully.
Congdon Area
The Congdon Elementary School area has hidden gems around, from Holy Rosary, to the nearby creek with plenty of wooden stairs and brides makes for unique backdrops.
Superior, Wisconsin Favorites
Barkers Island and the Marina
The marina area offers waterfront views, boats, boardwalks, and open skies. It is especially beautiful during golden hour when the light reflects off the water.
Cathedral of Christ the King
Superior has several stunning churches that create beautiful architectural backdrops but my favorite is Cathedral of Christ the King. The stone details, arches, and timeless design add depth and character to senior portraits.
Amnicon Falls State Park & Wisconsin Point
For seniors who love the outdoors, Amnicon Falls State Park is always worth the drive. The waterfalls, forest trails, bridges, and rock formations create a completely different feel than city locations.
Cloquet Locations That Deserve More Attention:
Downtown Cloquet
Downtown Cloquet is one of the most underrated senior photo locations in the area. The older buildings, exterior staircases, brick walls, and small town charm create an incredible urban backdrop.
St. Louis River Access
One of the biggest advantages of Cloquet is how easily we can move from downtown architecture to natural river scenery. The St. Louis River offers beautiful water views and natural landscapes without traveling far.
Jay Cooke State Park
If you've attended one of my fall mini sessions, you've probably been here. Jay Cooke remains one of my favorite locations because every season offers something different. The suspension bridge, river views, pine trees, and colorful fall leaves make it a classic Minnesota location.
Pinehurst Park
If you are from the Cloquet area and into skiing or mountain biking, chances are you have been to Pinehurst. It provides a fun backdrop that will
Moose Lake and Willow River
As a Moose Lake graduate, I always enjoy returning to my hometown for senior photo sessions. When I graduated, outdoor senior photos were not nearly as popular as they are today. Looking back, I would have loved to have my senior pictures taken at the Sturgeon Lake covered bridge or by one of the many country lakes where I spent so much of my time growing up.
Moose Lake Munger Trail Bridge
The pedestrian bridge along the Munger Trail provides great lines, texture, and perspective. It works especially well for seniors looking for something simple and unique. There is also an easy trail that goes down to the river to make for a fun backdrop.
Willow River Dam Area
The Willow River dam area offers an easy walk into the water with the rock features, greenery, and tall pines all in one location. It is a fun option that creates a variety of looks without covering much ground.
Willow River
Pedestrian Bridge by Moose Lake
Willow River Dam Area
Staircase by Munger Bike Trail in Moose Lake
Pedestrian Bridge by Moose Lake
Seasonal Favorites
Sunflower Fields Near Wrenshall
For a short window each summer, the sunflower fields near Wrenshall become absolutely magical. The bright blooms create a vibrant backdrop that feels completely different from anything else in our area.
Fields Near My House
Five years ago my hubby and I moved from Duluth to Carlton in the country. Surrounded by fields and old wooden fencing, if I am talking with families and they want a certain look, I will often suggest ending the senior session at my location for some epic golden hour photos.
Sunflower fields in Wrenshall
Daisy field by Amy's house
The Locations I Rarely Name
Some of my favorite locations are places I don't publicly share.
There is an abandoned road tucked away in the Carlton area that photographs beautifully during summer and fall. There is a small historic public building with wild flowers close by that hundreds of people walk by every summer and likely do not even think about for senior photos. And then there are a handful of small hidden spots I've discovered over the years that simply photograph beautifully in the right light.
Part of the experience when working with me is gaining access to locations you may never have considered on your own. When we have our phone consult if there are questions on where to have photos taken, I will help lead the conversation on some ideal spots.
Choosing the Right Location
As you look through the images above, use them as inspiration for your own senior session. Maybe you love a particular location, or maybe you like the overall feel of a photo and want to create your own version of it. The best senior sessions are the ones that reflect your personality, interests, and style.
And remember, this list is just a starting point. If you have a location in mind that is not featured here, there's a good chance I've photographed there before or would love to explore it with you. From favorite family cabins and hiking trails to downtown streets and hidden backroads, almost anything is possible. Together, we'll create a session that feels uniquely yours!
