Northwest Ohio is a beautiful area, filled with amazing parks and towns that serve as perfect backdrops for photos. I’ve put together a list of photos from four of the most popular photo locations, highlighting what makes each one special:

Grand Rapids, Ohio

Nestled along the scenic Maumee River, Grand Rapids is a quaint town that offers a range of picturesque settings. Whether you’re capturing serene riverfront shots or strolling through the charming streets for a town-inspired backdrop, this location is ideal for spring, summer, and fall photos.

Oak Openings Preserve Metropark

Located in Swanton, Ohio, Oak Openings Metropark provides a variety of photo opportunities in its vast and diverse landscape. It’s known for:

• The iconic bridge, perfect for creating a romantic or whimsical look.
• Expansive meadows and open fields that provide a bright, natural setting.
• The famous “The Spot”, a magical location known for its tall, towering trees that create an enchanting forest atmosphere.
• **THE SPOT is beautiful, but the parking situation is tricky. We will have to park in a spot that is marked “no parking.” Or sometimes parents drop a senior and myself off and “do a lap” to avoid parking.

  This park is perfect for photos during any season, offering a unique charm year-round.

Sidecut Metropark

Located in Maumee, Ohio, Sidecut Metropark is a stunning location that offers diverse photo opportunities. Highlights include:

• Beautiful wooded areas that create an intimate, nature-inspired backdrop.
• Serene riverfront views, perfect for capturing tranquil and reflective moments.
• A light brick and waterfall setting, providing a unique and striking feature for portraits and family photos.

Sidecut Metropark is a wonderful choice for year-round outdoor photography.

Toledo Botanical Garden

The Toledo Botanical Garden offers unique and picturesque settings perfect for photography. Highlights include:

• A gorgeous tree-lined walkway that provides a natural and elegant backdrop.
• Brick walls surrounded by stunning, seasonal flowers.
• Summer blooms that add vibrant pops of color and fall foliage that creates warm, rich tones.

While this location can be beautiful in the winter, keep in mind there is a lot of walking involved, so plan accordingly.

You can see examples from each location below- click through the tabs to see each location.