Southern Louisiana has so many beautiful locations for photo sessions, it’s sometimes hard to chose! I find that two of the biggest concerns that folks run into when considering booking a portrait session are 1- where to shoot, and 2- what on earth to wear! I completely get it. These two topics can be so overwhelming, and I’m willing to bet more often than not, you mommas and freshly engaged lovebirds put scheduling your session on the back burner because of these two things. But guess what! That’s what we photographers are here for- to wander around town finding beautiful light and magic pockets of space in this big busy city that will feel like the perfect place for your session.

To get this conversation started, I’ve rounded up a few of my favorite locations for engagement sessions, family sessions and maternity sessions! Read on to find links to more information on these locations!

I have to start here.. One favorite of mine that I love to mention not just for newborns but for your family sessions and engagement sessions as well is your home! What better place to create truly connected images of this time in your lives than the place you feel most yourself, spend most of your time, and put your heart and soul into making beautiful! At home sessions are so much fun and are truly special.

Longue Vue House & Gardens : one of my favorites! Quintessential southern manor, gardens and a live oak lined drive make this location a refined and elegant option. Permit fee is $100 / hour and must be booked in advance depending on their availability.

New Orleans City Park : one of my most requested locations. Live oak groves, peristyles, and various other park settings to choose from. There is a $50 photo permit fee that you can obtain any time before your session.

How to purchase your City Park Photography Permit:

City Park Administration Building
1 Palm Drive, New Orleans, LA 70124
Monday – Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm

Oscar J. Tolmas Center
5 Victory Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70124
Open 7 days a week from 10am to 5pm

Please contact Natalie Weiss at NWeiss@nocp.org or 504-483-9417 to purchase permit via email or phone.

New Orleans Botanical Gardens : beautiful garden landscapes and fun succulent make this a perfect backdrop for a romantic engagement session or fun family session. Great to use in conjunction with City Park! The Botanical Gardens require a $50 photo permit + gardens admission.

Fontainebleau State Park : beautiful beach on Lake Pontchartrain, meadows and a live oak grove. There is a $3 per person fee to enter the state park. (I only recommend this location in the winter as it gets very busy during the warmer months!)

New Orleans French Quarter : for a fun, bright and lively setting, the French Quarter is perfect! There are quiet areas of the neighborhood that still offer the French Quarter charm without the bustle. No fee.

Audubon Park : another highly requested option. Live oaks and beautiful park backdrops. No fee.

Uptown & Garden District: Absolutely breathtaking neighborhoods full of beautiful backdrops around every corner. No fee.

LSU Windrush Gardens : history and beauty combined! The LSU Rural Life Museum and Windrush Gardens have countless beautiful spots for photos. Permit fee is $140 for use of both.

Jungle Gardens at Avery Island : beautiful sprawling gardens and grounds. $50 permit fee.

This is just the tip of the iceberg on what our area has to offer. I am always finding new, exciting, enchanting places to explore. Do you have any favorites?

 

Chelsea Rousey Photography specializes in wedding photography and family photography in New Orleans, Louisiana and also specializes in maternity, newborn, and baby photography in the New Orleans area, including Metairie, Mandeville, Baton Rouge, and the greater Southern Louisiana region.

I would love to begin planning your perfect wedding collection or family session in one of the many gorgeous locations New Orleans has to offer. To see more of my baby & family portfolio please click over here and get in touch if this is something you would love for your family!

If you are you interested in a wedding day photography or a custom portrait session with Chelsea Rousey Photography and would like more information, please click here to learn more about me and this experience.

If you would like to reserve your date on my calendar, please click on the contact in the menu or below or email me directly at chelsea@chelsearousey.com.