Top 5 Locations I Love to Shoot at in Southwest Florida
As a wedding and portrait photographer, one of my favorite parts of the job is finding beautiful, unique locations that set the perfect scene for capturing special moments. Whether it’s the light, the atmosphere, or the natural beauty, these places help create unforgettable images. Here are my top 5 favorite places to photograph in Southwest Florida and why they’re absolutely perfect for your next photoshoot!
Koreshan State Park
Koreshan State Park is like stepping into a beautiful, historic wonderland . It’s nestled along the Estero River and offers such a variety of backdrops that it never gets boring. The towering bamboo forests and rustic, historic buildings create a magical, almost otherworldly feel. It’s perfect for couples who want something unique for their engagement or wedding photos. The natural light filtering through the trees is soft and romantic, adding a timeless quality to the images. If you want a mix of nature and history in your photos, Koreshan is a perfect choice.
Rotary Park
Rotary Park in Cape Coral is a hidden gem, full of serene beauty and versatility. It’s a fantastic spot for portraits because it offers such diverse scenery. There are walking trails, a butterfly garden, and even a little boardwalk that overlooks the mangroves and wetlands. The wide-open spaces are great for capturing those dramatic, sweeping shots. Plus, the park is super family-friendly, making it ideal for family portrait sessions as well as engagement photos. Rotary Park provides a peaceful, natural setting with beautiful Florida vegetation, perfect for capturing candid moments.
Caloosahatchee Creeks Preserve
If you love nature and adventure, Caloosahatchee Creeks Preserve is for you. This spot is all about natural beauty, with trails winding through forests, wetlands, and along the creeks. It’s the kind of place where you can truly feel connected to nature, which makes it perfect for intimate, romantic photo sessions. The preserve has this untouched, wild beauty that gives photos a raw, authentic feel. The sun peeking through the trees at sunset creates some of the most stunning light for portraits, making every shot look like it belongs in a storybook.
Bowditch Point Park
For those who dream of beach photos, Bowditch Point Park on Fort Myers Beach is a top pick. This beach is on the northern tip of the island and offers so much more than just sandy shores. You have gorgeous views of the Gulf of Mexico, lush dunes, and even mangroves. Bowditch is a quieter, more natural beach compared to others, which means fewer crowds and more opportunities for peaceful, intimate photos. The sunsets here are simply stunning—picture golden light reflecting off the water and casting a soft glow on everything. It’s a dreamy location for beach lovers and anyone looking for those perfect sunset shots.
Honorable Mention 😁
IF anyone’s feeling adventurous and wants to take their photoshoot to the next level, I’m more than willing to fly out to New York City! That’s right—if you’re dreaming of iconic cityscapes, Central Park greenery, or the magic of Times Square in your portraits, I’ll happily pack my bags and join you in the Big Apple! While Southwest Florida has its fair share of beautiful locations, sometimes a change of scenery can add a whole new level of excitement to your photoshoot. So, if NYC calls your name, count me in !!
