Choosing a location for your senior pictures is one of the biggest decisions in the planning process.
The right location should match your style, feel comfortable to you, and give us enough variety to create a full gallery without feeling rushed or repetitive.
In and around Detroit Lakes, there are several solid options depending on the look you’re going for.
Dunton Locks County Park
Dunton Locks is a popular county park just outside of town with a mix of trees and water access.
It’s a good fit if you want:
- a combination of greenery and lake views
- easy access without a long walk
- a recognizable local spot
It tends to be a busy area, especially during peak times (Ronny Funny Face is very popular!), so we plan around that when choosing where and when to shoot.
Sucker Creek Park
Sucker Creek is one of the more popular photo locations in town, especially in the fall.
It works well because:
- parking is easy
- the space is accessible
- fall colors can be strong
Because it’s widely used, you can expect to see other people there during sessions.
Detroit Lakes City Beach
City Beach is the go-to for a classic lake look.
You’ll get:
- sand
- water
- open sky
It’s a simple, clean setting that lends a timeless feel.
Parts of the beach will be under construction in 2026, so availability may depend on timing. When it’s open, it’s one of the easiest ways to get that traditional lakeside look.
Downtown Detroit Lakes
Downtown is a good fit if you want something that feels a little different from nature-based locations.
This works well for:
- more “urban” photos
- brick, sidewalks, and storefronts
- a mix of textures and backgrounds
It adds variety, especially when paired with a more natural location.
Your Family’s Lake Place
If your family has a cabin on the lake, it’s worth considering as part of your senior session.
The setting is already meaningful, and the props are already there. Boats, kayaks, paddleboards, jet skis. That kind of gear adds personality to photos without feeling forced, because it’s actually yours.
There’s a practical bonus too: you’re getting ready at home. No forgetting outfits, no cramped parking lot changes. Everything is where it already lives.
A few things to know going in:
- Lake light can be tricky. The sun reflecting off the water makes it difficult to photograph until later in the evening, so timing matters more here than at most locations.
- Variety can be limited depending on the lot. If your cabin space is smaller or the surrounding scenery is fairly similar throughout, we may want to pair this with a second location to round out your gallery.
For seniors who want their session to feel personal and tied to a place that matters, a lake cabin can be a really strong starting point.
The Amber Langerud Photography Farm
Located about 15 minutes west of town, this space offers a little more flexibility than most public locations.
Because it’s private, we don’t have to work around other people or limited space. That allows the session to stay more relaxed and consistent from start to finish.
At the farm, we have a few different looks available.
Flower Field
Seasonal, but when it’s in bloom, it adds the magic of flowers.
Gravel Roads
Simple and open. These work well for movement and give a clean, natural background without distractions.
Pasture and Grassy Areas
Wide, open space that allows for flexibility, especially for full-body shots and movement.
Trees
Consistent shade and a more natural, grounded feel. These areas work well throughout the session as light changes.
Farm Buildings
Grain bins, weathered wood, and older structures add texture without feeling overly styled.
Lawn Areas
Flat(er), accessible spaces that work well for:
- sports photos
- prop-based images
- simpler, clean backgrounds
These areas are especially helpful when you want the focus to stay on you rather than the setting.
If you want some more location inspiration for at the farm, check out my SENIOR & FAMILY PORTRAIT LOCATION INSPIRATION.
Choosing the Right Location for Your Session
There isn’t one “best” location for senior pictures.
You might love the lake, whether that’s City Beach or your own family’s cabin. You might feel most like yourself in an open field or surrounded by trees. Or the downtown look might be exactly the kind of backdrop your style calls for. There is no right answer.
The right choice usually comes down to:
- what feels most like you
- how much variety you want
- whether you prefer a public, private, or personal setting
- whether one location will carry the whole session, or whether pairing two spots makes more sense
If you’re not sure what direction to go, we can talk through options and build a plan that fits your style.
If you’re planning senior pictures and want help choosing a location, head over to my contact page to get in touch. Or learn more about senior sessions on my seniors page.
