📍Beyond the Usual: Cool Photo Locations in St. Louis
If you’ve already hit Forest Park and Tower Grove more times than you can count, here’s a round-up of underrated and lesser-known spots in the city that still bring the magic - without the crowds.
Whether you're chasing soft light, bold color, or a new backdrop, these local gems deserve a spot on your location list.
Cliff Cave Park (South City)
A South County staple that flies under the radar. With tree-lined paths, bridges, peaceful lakes, larger than life bluffs and open fields, Cliff Cave Park has everything you’d want from a classic park session. Perfect for laid-back families, couples, and pet-friendly shoots.
Lafayette Park (Lafayette Square)
Step into a romantic, garden-style scene with a European twist. Lafayette Park features manicured paths, a charming lake, and the surrounding neighborhood’s iconic Victorian homes and iron fencing. Ideal for couples, engagements, families or branding sessions!
The Roof of a Parking Garage (Downtown STL)
Want an incredible iconic St. Louis skyline view? Find a parking garage with public access and prepare for the coolest session of your life. There is typically a small parking fee depending on how long you stay ($10 - $15). Well worth it! Just make sure you are not going on a event weekend like cardinals baseball or blues hockey. It can get pretty hectic during those times.
I recommend these parking garages:
Gateway Arch Parking for a direct view of the St. Louis Arch
9th Street Garage for neat architecture in the back
Olive Street Parking if you only want a great spot for sunset!
There are many more so if I am missing any, feel free to leave a comment!! :)
Photographer Tip: Always scout your location before your session to see if each spot has the view you are looking for!
Francis Park (St. Louis Hills)
Francis Park blends classic beauty with symmetry. Expect clean walking paths, fountains, tall trees, and big grassy areas perfect for running toddlers or creative framing. Great for families and couples.
The Grove Murals (The Grove)
Vibrant, punchy, and full of character. The murals scattered throughout The Grove are constantly evolving and offer bold backdrops for editorial, branding, or personality-driven portraits. Mix in some gritty alley textures or clean city lines for variety.
Piazza Imo on The Hill
Skip the main drag and explore the quieter corners of The Historic Italian Community, The Hill. Pizza Imo is has a breathtaking fountain in the middle and large trees full of shade in the back. Walk the cobble stone streets to find cool buildings and even treat yourself to dinner after your session at one of their many incredible local restaurants!
🌿 Worth the Drive
Here are a few out-of-town favorites:
Klondike Park (Augusta, MO)
White sand, crystal-blue water, and striking bluffs that feel more like the West Coast than Missouri. Klondike is wildly underrated and perfect for adventurous couples, elopements, or golden hour shoots with a big visual payoff.
Elephant Rocks State Park (Belleview, MO)
Massive granite boulders, narrow trails, and otherworldly textures. Elephant Rocks is a dream for creative portraits and anyone wanting a shoot that stands out from the usual greens and trees.
Hey, I’m Jess!
Thanks for reading.
I’m a Portrait Photographer that has documented Client's from all walks of life over the last 18 years. I am based out of St. Louis, MO, but you can catch me on a plane every other month Assisting my favorite Fashion and Wedding Photographers :)
I am inspired by bright colors, nature and the person standing in front of my lens.
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