If you live in or have visited Milwaukee, you know its a beautiful place. Somehow it has the ability to remain, season to season, an interesting and ever-changing landscape. Most of my clients ask where I prefer to hold their engagement or lifestyle photo sessions, so let’s dive into my 8 favorite locations in this city for taking photos!
1 // Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum: A garden-filled, Italian architectural dream! What a romantic setting with a beautiful history, and it could be part of your story as well! Note that a permit is required for photography. (Additional engagement photos taken here: Katie + Rob, Ashley + Grant elopement)
2 // Milwaukee’s Lakefront / McKinley Marina & Beach: If you’re like me and love being near the water, these spots might be ideal for you! Keep in mind it can get breezy due to the wind off of Lake Michigan, but if you’re laid back and don’t mind potential windy conditions, you will end up with some stunning backdrops of both the skyline and the beach/marina areas in Milwaukee.
3 // Lakeshore State Park: This dog-friendly spot is perfect for those who want an organic backdrop without a far drive from the city. In fact, this small island park sits right in Lake Michigan and includes views of the lake, Milwaukee skyline, as well as a large pedestrian bridge that leads to nearby Discovery World. (Please note that a permit is required for photography)
4 // Lake Park: If you’re looking for lots of greenspace right in Milwaukee, Lake Park is one of the best options on the East Side/Lakefront! There’s also a beautiful walking bridge and some beautiful simple architectural features.(Please note that a permit is required for photography)
5 // Retzer Nature Center: While not technically in Milwaukee, Retzer Nature Center is just a few miles away in the Waukesha area and WELL worth the drive. If you prefer towering pine trees to skylines, this is THE place to go! It’s beautiful in all seasons, and open year round to visitors. With fields of tall grass, rolling hills overlooking the countryside, and of course those stunning pines, you are sure to fall in love with this location. (Additional engagement photos taken here: Amy + Brandon, Lauren + Kyle, Haley + Carl, Kristin + Timm)
6 // Big Bay Park: A rustic forest setting with wooden foot bridges, and a trail leading down to the beach and stone piers jutting into Lake Michigan. Need I say more?! (additional wedding photos taken here: Rachel + Bryan)
7 // Third Ward: This pretty neighborhood will suit you if you like historic urban architecture, boutique shops, and also a riverwalk trail. When my couples and I use this location, we typically are able to use all of these backdrops while walking just a few city blocks – I love it! If you’d like to grab a drink (or coffee) with your honey while taking photos, the Third Ward is your best bet!
8 // Schlitz Audubon Nature Center: In Milwaukee’s Northshore neighborhood, this nature center is complete with a lodge (with a covered porch, which we can use in case of bad weather), hiking trails, wooden bridge, and even a small beach and view of the lake. One of my all-time favorite locations! (additional wedding photos take here: Morgan + Michael, Kristin + Timm)
Do you have additional locations you’d recommend? Send me an email, I’d love to hear from you – laurelynsavannah(at)gmail(dot)com – and thanks for reading!
[…] engagement session with you, and WOW what a time we had together. We got to visit one of my favorite locations in the area, Retzer Nature Center, and M&J came prepared to hike around and explore with […]
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