Recap Throughout Springfield
As a Springfield IL photographer, I love helping clients choose the perfect location for their photo session. Over the last several weeks, I have been highlighting some of my favorite spots around Springfield and beyond including a brief overview of what makes each one special. If you missed earlier posts in this series you can check them all out here.
The first location featured was Centennial Park in Springfield IL. You can read more about Centennial Park here or by using the button below.
Washington Park Botanical Gardens
To continue this series of top locations for photo sessions in Central Illinois, we are now heading to Washington Park Botanical Gardens in Springfield, IL.
Washington Park is an incredible choice for sessions where you want pops of color with a floral vibe. The park is full of natural scenic backdrops that feel both classic and elegant. Whether you are drawn to stone pathways, fountains, flower-filled areas, tall pillars, or even a gazebo, Washington Park truly has it all. I am so excited to share more about why this location photographs beautifully.
Botanical Garden Flowers, Plants, and Trees
Adding different colors to your session is a great way to make your images pop. As you wander through Washington Park Botanical Gardens, you will notice flowers and plants everywhere. There are full garden beds, flowering trees in the spring, and lush greenery that frames walkways and the large fountain area.
One of my favorite spots is the large flower bed just west of the fountain. There are so many creative options here whether you are walking the grassy path between flowers or nestled into the greenery around them. This part of the park has so many blooms to work with including zinnias, wildflowers, tulips, and sunflowers depending on the season.
During the spring months you will also see white and pink flowering trees throughout the park which is always a eye-catching in photos.
Fountains
Washington Park is home to two fountains that are stunning spots for portraits. The large fountain is often one of the first things you see when you arrive. During golden hour it creates such a setting with the sky glowing behind you.
Just south of the main fountain is a smaller fountain with white pillars. While this is the back of the park and can be overlooked, this is definitely a spot that should be highlighted. This setup feels a little more elegant and romantic especially when the surrounding garden beds are in bloom. Early spring brings colorful flowers leading right up to the fountain which photographs beautifully.
Pillars
The white pillars that line the stone pathways are unique to this park and always a favorite backdrop. These are especially great for small families or senior sessions. The mix of flowers plants and architectural elements adds so much variety within one small area. The overall look is clean timeless and full of charm.
Gazebo
Another great feature at Washington Park is the gazebo which sits a short drive from the main parking area. This spot is perfect for any type of photos and is set with sunsets directly behind it making it an ideal location for evening sessions. The gazebo sits near a small pond and combines both rustic and classic elements offering gorgeous lighting and scenery all in one place.
Final Thoughts
Washington Park Botanical Gardens offers endless opportunities for beautiful images all across the park. Every direction you turn has a new backdrop to explore and it truly shines from spring through fall. I always love photographing sessions here and helping families seniors and couples select the perfect areas that match their personality and style.
If you are considering Washington Park for your upcoming photos I would love to help you plan the perfect session here or any location in Springfield, IL and beyond. You can contact me here!
