Most of my clients live in eastern South Dakota or southwest Minnesota. Know what that means? Flat land and lots of corn fields. Now, if you’re a farmer or rancher, this is the perfect setting for your next engagement or family session. But if you’re anything like me, the corn fields can get a bit boring. Let’s switch it up and go somewhere unique. Here’s a list of my FAVORITE locations within driving distance for your next destination session.

1. The Badlands, South Dakota

There’s no shortage of creativity that can happen at a session in the badlands. The rock formations and endless prairie-like grass is the perfect setting for a photo session. Also, the neutral colors of the rocks make it a setting that can blend with any outfits you choose. If we get lucky, we might also see a variety of wildlife that wants to photobomb our session.

2. The Black Hills, South Dakota

If we’re already in the badlands, we might as well keep traveling west into the Black Hills of South Dakota. With rolling hills, tall pine trees, and run-off lakes behind every turn in the road, the Black Hills provides endless picturesque photo backgrounds. Custer State Park and Sylvan Lake are two of my favorite places in the Hills among many others.

3. The Old Market, Omaha, Nebraska

Two words: cobblestone streets. Let’s take a stroll down the endless cobblestone streets of the old market in Omaha, Nebraska. The vintage buildings in the market will add a unique touch to your photos. Plus there’s plenty of food and drink we could munch on during and after our session! Maybe a trip to the Omaha zoo, too while we are there? (Where you can leave your husband or fiance with his tribe, the monkeys hehe)

4. The North Shore, Minnesota

If you’ve ever journeyed north of Duluth, Minnesota, you know the treasure that Superior Lake and the many state parks hold in northern Minnesota. Some of my favorite locations include Gooseberry Falls, Splitrock Lighthouse, and Black Beach at Silver Bay, among many others! Especially during the fall, when the trees are at peak color, the scenery on the north shore is unmatched. If we’re in the area, I’ll definitely take you to Betty’s Pies for an after-session snack.

5. Stone Arch Bridge, Minneapolis, Minnesota

An unexpected treasure in downtown Minneapolis is the Stone Arch Bridge. It’s unique arch design adds texture to your photos while featuring the old-style overhang lamps along the mile long stretch from end to end. And if we’re in Minneapolis, let’s find some old building downtown to explore and maybe even stop at the art museum for an art-deco styled shoot. There’s endless possibilities in the cities!

Is there a location you have in mind that would be super pretty for your next session? I’d love to hear your ideas and I’m always down for a road trip! Shoot me an inquiry here and let’s get your next destination session planned!