Picking a location for your photos can sometimes be the most challenging part about scheduling your photography session. The beauty of Missoula is that there are a lot of really great options. Maybe thats part of the problem; too many good options. This list only scratches the surface on the many amazing places in Missoula that you could schedule a photography session. Great images can be made truly anywhere with good light.

Best Locations for Family Photos in Missoula, Montana

1. Blue Mountain Recreation Area

   Blue Mountain Recreation Area is located on the west side of the city of Missoula is popular for hiking, mountain biking, and frisbee golfing. As part of the Lolo National Forest, Blue Mountain Recreation area provides forested areas as well as open land with views across Missoula.

2. Maclay Flat Nature Trail

   The Maclay Flat Nature Trail is easily accessed with no hiking or include. Also on the west side of Missoula. This walking trail provides a variety of views included wooded areas, open meadows and the rocky riverbed of the Bitterroot River.

3. Kelly Island

   Kelly Island has fishing access on the Clark Fork River and is full of wildlife, cottonwood, pine trees and open meadows. Kelly Island is a great outdoor location for riverside photos.

4. Downtown Missoula

   If you are looking to capture the urban feel of this small city Downtown Missoula is a great option. The Higgins Ave will bring you right along some of Missoula’s most iconic spots including -  The Carousel, Caras Park, Big Dipper, Wilma Theater and the Crossings.

5. University of Montana Campus

   A beautiful campus with historic buildings.  The most iconic view of the university is on the western side of the oval facing Mount Sentinel. The life-sized bronze statue of a grizzly bear in the forefront with University Hall and the “M” of Mount Sentinal in the background. A popular spot to capture life’s milestones such as in-coming freshman, college graduations, and engagements of college sweethearts.

6. Rattlesnake National Recreation Area & Wilderness

   Rattlesnake National Recreation Area & Wilderness is located in the Missoula Ranger District of the Lolo National Forest on the northwest side of Missoula. The trail parallels the Rattlesnake Creek providing easy access to wooded areas, open ground and a creek for some diversity in backgrounds for you photography session.

7. Greenough Park

   Located up the Rattlesnake Greenough Park is Missoula’s most natural city park. Greenough Park was donated to the City of Missoula by the Greenough family. The Rattlesnake creek runs through this beautiful wooded area offering a nice shaded and easily accessed location for a photography session.

8. Waterworks Hill

   Waterworks hill offers open space and views across Missoula, water works hill is a great open area for photos and views of Missoula  and Hellgate Canyon from the Northside of the city.

9. Pattee Canyon Recreation Area

   A popular place for locals and visitors, the Pattee canyon recreation area is located on the east side of Missoula and offered wooded areas for hiking, folfing, picnicking and cross country skiing in the winter. A great location for outdoor photos that is easily accessible.

10. An indoor studio

    When the weather doesn’t cooperate or you aren’t feeling outdoor photos, an indoor studio is a great option. There are a few lovely options in Missoula including Oi Yoi Studio a natural light studio with a variety of furniture, wall colors and located downtown.

11. Your Home

    Your home and/or backyard are always a great option for photos. Home is where we can make some of the most meaningful images of you and yours. It is central to where you do life with your people. Not sure about the lighting in your home? No worries, we can work with the available light and move the session to your yard or outdoor patio.

For more information on picking a meaningful location check out this blog post.