I'm often asked for location suggestions by clients. There's so many spots in the Milwaukee & Waukesha counties that offer a variety of color, texture, and mood. Picking the right spot for your session can feel overwhelming, so, I've put together an abbreviated list of locations to help pin down what feels most like you and your family. Don't hesitate to do additional searching of these or other locations of interest through social media or google images! It's a great way to get an idea what each has to offer.
Please note that some locations require a photo permit fee or park entrance fee and/or have dog restrictions.
Delafield Fish Hatchery
Delafield, WI
Setting: Natural // Boardwalk
Amount of walking: Moderate
If you google Fish Hatchery, you'll most likely come across photos of a stone building but the location is so much more than that. While the stone wall offers a great backdrop—within a short walking distance are gravel paths covered with shaded, arched trees. The path follows along the Bark River. Depending on the season and how bold you and your family are, there's opportunity to be ankle deep in the river (if that's your thing)! Boardwalks, bridges and a unique castle-like playground completes the location that boast a wide variety. The Hawks Inn (white Colonial style house) may be available depending on any event hosting taking place.
Retzner Nature Center
Waukesha, WI
Setting: Woods // Floral (seasonal) Amount of walking: Heavy with an incline
This is probably the most popular spot for photos in all of Waukesha county—for good reason. Aisles of tall trees provide a woodland feel that you can't quite find anywhere else. Tons of wild flowers (in season) and tall grasses make just about anywhere in this location an opportunity for a photo. One of my favorite parts—the open field and hill that gives an amazing view. Kids loose their minds at the amount of running and cartwheel space.
No dogs are allowed at this location ) :
Urban Ecology Center, Riverside
Milwaukee, WI
Setting: Eclectic // Floral
Amount of walking: Moderate
The space offers a wide variety of textures and angles. Multiple archways—some made out of stone and scrap material—serve as a frame within a frame. Additionally you'll come across a bridge, and public art, including graffiti. Want a few shots in the woods? They have that too. I've shot here multiple times and each time, I discover something new. It's hard to list out everything the space has to offer.
Grant Park / Seven Bridges
South Milwaukee, WI
Setting: Beach // Natural
Amount of walking: Heavy with stairs
Yes, there's a few bridges here. My favorite part—the beach along lake Michigan, abundant with sand and driftwood. What's really cool about this spot is the different "levels" you'll come across as you make your way from the Seven Bridges entrance to the beach. Stone paths, stairs and bridges, all surrounded by woods. The location feels enchanted.
Mitchelle Park Domes
Milwaukee, WI
Setting: Floral // Desert // Tropical
Amount of walking: Light
Details coming soon!
Naga-Waukee Park
Delafield, WI
Setting: Farmhouse // Woods // Beach
Amount of walking: Moderate to Heavy
This location requires getting in and out of the car once or twice. I love the versatility this spot offers. There's a beautiful red barn (perfect for fall or holiday feels) along with stone walls for some great texture. An open field lets the kids get their ya ya's out before we head over to the public beach along Nagawicka Lake. Just to note, If utilizing the beach, it's a 5 minute walk from the nearest parking lot. Bonus—this location allows dogs!
This Location requires a daily parking permit you can obtain through the Waukesha County Park System.
Third Ward
Delafield, WI
Setting: Urban City Amount of walking: Moderate to heavy
Details coming soon!
For the Love of FLowers Farm
Raymond, WI
Setting: Flower Garden // Seasonal // Barn Amount of walking: Moderate
Details coming soon!
This location requires a photo permit fee.
The Golf Course
Only available where you're a member and they allow photography.
Setting: Golf course Amount of walking: Moderate to heavy (depending on if we have a golf cart!)
Details coming soon!
Menomonee Park
Menomonee Falls, WI
Setting: Park // Beach Amount of walking: Moderate
Details coming soon!
Milwaukee Lake Front
Milwaukee, WI
Setting: Park // Beach Amount of walking: Light to moderate
Details coming soon!
Virmond Park
Mequon, WI
Setting: Park // Beach Amount of walking: Moderate to Heavy. Accessing the beach requires 225 steps of stairs.
Details coming soon!
Hoyt Park / WauwaTosa Village
Wauwatosa, WI
Setting: Park // Village // Town Amount of walking: Moderate to Heavy.
Details coming soon!
Pewaukee Lakefront
Pewaukee, WI
Setting: Lake // Beach // Village Amount of walking: Light to Moderate.
Details coming soon!
Ebert's Greenhouse
Ixonia, WI
Setting: Greenhouse // Nursery Amount of walking: Light to Moderate.
Details coming soon!
Your Home/backyard
It's easy to overlook that your own backyard can be a perfect spot. This may be a good option if you have pets you'd like included, littles that feel more comfortable at home (especially newborn) or to consider any family member that may have accessibility challenges.
