- Blog
Winter Portrait Locations Near Montgomery County, PA
As a natural light photographer, cold weather can limit both the hours and locations that we might otherwise utilize for portrait sessions in the warmer months. Here is a list of some of my favorite spots for stunning winter portraits.
Please note that some locations may require photography permits. If your chosen location requires one, it’s best to plan ahead together and allow about a month in advance to secure the necessary permissions.
Your Home
I make house calls! Staying in makes for a more comfortable experience in the winter, especially for kids, and adds a personal touch to your photos. It’s perfect for capturing intimate moments – whether it’s cozying up by the fireplace, baking cookies, or simply spending time together. These sessions create a relaxed, storytelling atmosphere that preserves the warmth of your home and family.
Studio
When it’s too cold for outdoor photos, renting a studio is a great option! Studios offer a warm, cozy environment while still feeling minimal and bright, perfect for portrait photography. Plus, you can achieve that homey vibe without needing to shoot in your actual home.
Studio Fee: $100
Green Lane Park
Green Lane Park is always a great option for outdoor portraits! Let’s bundle up and explore the meadows, cross a bridge, or simply enjoy the trees along the trail!
Byers' Choice
Want to lean into the Christmas spirit? Byers’ Choice is a Christmas store that artfully decorates their exterior garden for the holidays! Outside of the holidays, we can utilize their evergreen hedges, fountains, and sculptures around the garden for beautiful winter photos.
Valley Forge National Park
As seen above, Valley Forge National Park offers beautiful architectural landscapes that look lovely even in the winter months. Dress yourself in warm coats, hats, and scarves for a fashionably toasty winter park photoshoot!
Park Permit Fee: $75
Ott's Exotic Plants
Wanting to escape the chill of the outdoors? Ott’s Exotic Plants in Schwenksville, PA is a beautiful indoor greenhouse attraction that can provide lush, plant-covered backgrounds to your portraits. Even better, any plant-lovers can shop around for a new houseplant plant right after the shoot!
Location Fee: $25/person
New Hope
Let’s hit the town! Main St in New Hope, PA has a colorful and cozy charm that pairs beautifully with couple shoots, engagements, senior portraits, and professional portraits.
Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve
This lovely preserve is just as magical in the winter as it is in the warmer months! While we won’t see the flowers that Bowman’s is famous for, we can walk the trail, explore the land, and take full advantage of the winter scenery for our session!
Admission Fee: $12/person
Rodin Museum Interior Garden
Any fellow art lovers in the crowd? The Rodin Museum in Philadelphia is stunning year-round, but I especially love recommending it in the winter because the architecture provides your portraits with an elegant, sculptural touch. The crowds are also a bit lighter in the colder months, so we’ll likely have a bit of extra privacy in the interior garden!
Permit Fee: $100
Purchase photo permit here.
Tyler Arboretum
Do you enjoy artistic landscaping? Then you’ll love Tyler Arboretum in Delaware County, PA! This cottage-quaint arboretum offers charming and historic architecture alongside ponds, gardens, artistic landscaping, and a nearly 200-year old Giant Sequoia tree. Expect a moderate, paved walk.
Admission: $18/person
Appleford Estate
Looking for elegant charm with gorgeous winter landscaping, including fountains and hedge mazes? Appleford Estate is a wonderful choice!
Permit Fee: $30
Donate here.
Philadelphia Art Museum Steps & Azalea Garden
The iconic Philadelphia Museum of Art steps offer one of the most recognizable backdrops in the city. With sweeping views of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and Center City skyline, this spot is perfect for couples who want a classic Philadelphia feel in their photos. The grand stone steps and surrounding architecture add a timeless, dramatic touch—especially beautiful during golden hour or when the city lights begin to glow.
Permit Fee: $50
Apply for permit here.
Permit-Free Philadelphia Spots
18th Century Garden
Benjamin Rush Garden
Broad Street
City Hall
Elfreth’s Alley
Franklin Square
Logan Square
Merchant’s Exchange Building
Second National Bank
Race Street Pier