Best Places for Photos in Indianapolis, Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, and McCordsville

Cody Bailey
Sep 19, 2025
5 min read

Updated: Jan 15

A couple walks on a rooftop with a city skyline in the background. The woman wears a green dress, smiling, while the man is in a dark suit.

When it comes to planning a photo session—whether it’s family portraits, senior pictures, engagement photos, or even wedding day portraits—the location sets the tone for your images. The greater Indianapolis area is packed with scenic, diverse, and meaningful spots that can perfectly complement your story. As an Indianapolis wedding photographer and a family and senior photographer near me, we are often asked what are the best places for photos in Indianapolis. I’ve explored countless places with couples, families, and graduates, and I’ve narrowed down a few of the absolute best.

When you’re planning an engagement session in the Indianapolis area, it helps to explore ideas beyond this list to find the vibe that best suits your love story. For a curated set of best places to take engagement photos in Indianapolis — with locations ranging from urban charm to gardens and historic landmarks — check out this engagement photo guide on Wed Society

If you’re looking for inspiration or want to explore more session ideas, don’t miss our full guide here: Where We Shoot.

Why Location Matters for the Best Places for Photos in Indianapolis

A couple holds hands on a stone ledge under a vast, cloudy sky. The man wears a beige sweater; the woman, a white blouse and red pants.

Choosing the right backdrop is about more than just pretty scenery—it’s about finding a setting that reflects your personality, your style, and your story. Do you want something natural and airy? Classic and elegant? Bold and urban? The right location makes you feel at ease and helps your photographer capture your truest self.

That’s why I’ve rounded up some of my favorite photo spots in Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, McCordsville, and Indianapolis—so you can find the one that feels right for your engagement session, family portraits, or senior session.

Newfields: One of the Best Places for Photos in Indianapolis

Man lifts woman in front of arched white building, both smiling. Sunlight casts shadows on grass and wall, creating a romantic mood.

If you’re looking for variety, Newfields in Indianapolis is one of the most versatile locations in the city. From the manicured gardens to the historic Lilly House and the vibrant seasonal displays, Newfields offers endless options for photo sessions.

For Engagement Sessions: Romantic archways, fountains, and private garden corners make this a dream location for couples.
For Family Sessions: Kids love exploring the wide lawns, orchards, and flower beds, which creates natural, candid moments.
For Senior Photos: The combination of modern art and timeless backdrops lets seniors showcase both personality and style.
For Weddings: Many couples incorporate Newfields portraits into their wedding day timeline for an elegant touch.

Newfields isn’t just a favorite for engagement sessions — it’s one of the most versatile and elegant photo locations in Indianapolis overall. From gardens to architecture, you can see just how dynamic the property is through these Newfields engagement photo sessions, which highlight why this location works beautifully for couples, seniors, and families alike.

Geist Park & Bell Ford Covered Bridge: Rustic and Natural Beauty

Man holds smiling woman near a river and bridge. She wears a blue dress, and he's in a white shirt. Greenery surrounds them. Romantic mood.

For couples and families in Fishers and McCordsville, Geist Park and the nearby Bell Ford Covered Bridge are hidden gems. The rustic covered bridge adds an iconic Indiana touch, while the surrounding park offers woodlands, water views, and walking trails.

For Engagement Sessions: Perfect for cozy, romantic photos that feel like a quiet escape.
For Families: Open fields and the bridge give kids plenty of space to move while still delivering gorgeous backdrops.
For Seniors: The mix of rustic textures and soft natural light creates timeless portraits.

Geist Park is especially popular for couples who want variety in one location — open fields, wooded trails, and the iconic Bell Ford Covered Bridge all within walking distance. You can see how this location photographs during real sessions in our Geist Park engagement photos, which showcase how timeless and versatile this Fishers location can be throughout the seasons.

The Indiana War Memorial: A Classic Choice for the Best Places for Photos in Indianapolis

Two people embrace on a sunlit rooftop. They're smiling, with soft sunlight creating a warm glow. Urban buildings are visible in the background.

Located in downtown Indianapolis, the Indiana War Memorial delivers dramatic architecture and a clean, classic look that works beautifully for all session types.

For Engagements & Weddings: The soaring columns and marble steps add a sense of grandeur, perfect for formal outfits.
For Seniors: A strong backdrop for elegant, confident portraits that stand out from the typical greenery.
For Families: The open plaza and steps allow for group portraits with a modern, polished feel.

It’s one of my favorite spots for couples who want their photos to feel timeless and elegant.

The Canal Downtown: Romantic and Urban

Couple holding hands, walking up steps at sunset. She wears a white dress, he wears a light shirt. Brick building and bridge in background.

The Indianapolis Canal Walk is a go-to location for couples and families who want that perfect mix of city and charm. The bridges, water views, and skyline make it one of the most versatile areas downtown.

For Engagements: Sunset strolls along the canal and shots under the bridges create effortless romance.
For Seniors: A modern, city-vibe location that still offers variety with greenery and reflections in the water.
For Families: Great for walking sessions, where movement keeps kids engaged and candid smiles shine through.

When people search for “engagement photos Indianapolis” or “senior photos Indianapolis”, the canal is one of the first places I recommend.

The Palladium: Elegant and Architectural

A couple sits on steps, affectionately touching foreheads, with soft sunlight behind. She wears a white dress; he wears a black shirt. Romantic mood.

Carmel’s Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts is a favorite for couples and seniors who love clean lines and grand design.

For Engagement Sessions: The limestone exterior and staircases give a touch of European sophistication without leaving Indiana.
For Seniors: A polished, professional look for portraits, especially with dressier outfits.
For Families: While a bit more formal, the wide plaza can be used for timeless family photos.

The Palladium is an ideal choice if you’re searching for something chic and architectural in Carmel.

Indiana State House Engagement & Elopement Sessions

Romantic couple portrait inside the Indiana State House in Indianapolis

If you love timeless architecture, clean lines, and an elevated downtown feel, the Indiana State House is one of the most iconic places in Indianapolis for engagement and elopement photos. The grand staircases, tall columns, marble details, and natural light pouring through the windows create a classic, editorial look that never goes out of style — rain or shine.

Engagement sessions at the State House are perfect for couples who want something refined and romantic without feeling overly posed. The neutral tones photograph beautifully year-round and pair especially well with formal attire, making this a favorite location for couples planning black-tie or city-inspired weddings. Because it’s centrally located, many couples also combine their session with nearby downtown landmarks for added variety.

For couples planning something more intimate, the State House is also one of the most meaningful spots in the city for elopements. From quiet weekday ceremonies to private vow exchanges, we’ve photographed countless moments here and know exactly how to navigate timing, lighting, and logistics. Our experience with Indiana State House elopement photography allows us to guide couples through what to expect — including photography policies, best times to avoid crowds, and how to create a seamless, stress-free experience while still capturing stunning images.

Why couples love the Indiana State House for photos:

Elegant indoor option for unpredictable Indiana weather
Stunning architectural backdrops that feel timeless and editorial
Ideal for both engagement sessions and elopements
Convenient downtown location with nearby photo opportunities
Perfect for couples who want classic, romantic imagery

Whether you’re planning an engagement session, a courthouse-style elopement, or a private vow exchange, the Indiana State House offers a refined setting that lets your story take center stage — with imagery that will feel just as beautiful decades from now.

More of the Best Places for Photos in Indianapolis

Family of five holding hands walks on a dirt path at sunset, surrounded by autumn trees. Warm clothing and joyful expressions.

Of course, these are just a few of the incredible spots you’ll find around the city. Parks, urban spaces, historic buildings, and hidden trails all have potential for amazing photos. To see even more ideas, visit our full location guide: Where We Shoot.

Final Thoughts on the Best Places for Photos in Indianapolis

Pregnant woman in an olive dress kisses a bearded man holding a laughing girl on his shoulders in a tall grassy field. Warm, joyful mood.

Whether you’re celebrating an engagement, capturing family memories, or commemorating senior year, the right location makes all the difference. Indianapolis and the surrounding areas like Carmel, Noblesville, Fishers, and McCordsville offer so many options that fit every personality and style.

As a wedding, family, engagement and senior portraits photographer, I love helping my clients choose locations that feel meaningful and create stunning results. Ready to plan your own session? Let’s connect and find the perfect spot for you.