If you’ve been searching for the best places to take photos in Omaha, Nebraska, you are in the right place! I get asked this question ALL the time and honestly, I love it. Omaha has so many incredible spots and I feel like people don’t give this city enough credit. Whether you’re planning a family session, an engagement shoot, senior photos, or literally just want some gorgeous photos of yourself (yes, please!), I’ve got you covered.

Here are my favorite photography locations in Omaha – iconic spots, hidden gems, and everything in between!

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the old market

This one is a non-negotiable for me. If you have never shot in the Old Market, you are MISSING OUT. The cobblestone streets, the brick walls, the little alleyways – it is just so good. The light bounces between the buildings in the most flattering way and honestly every single corner is a photo waiting to happen.

It works in every season too. Fall? Golden leaves against the brick. Winter? The holiday lights make everything feel warm and magical. Spring and summer? Flower vendors, open patios, and that gorgeous evening energy.

My go-to timing is early morning before the crowds show up, or that last 45 minutes before sunset when the light goes all golden and dramatic. The alleyways just off Howard Street are some of my personal favorites – most people walk right past them and have NO idea how good they are for photos!

lauritzen gardens

I could talk about Lauritzen Gardens forever, honestly. It is 100 acres of pure magic and it is right here in Omaha. We are so lucky! There are more than 20 distinct garden areas – a rose garden, peony beds, a glass conservatory, vine-covered stone arbors, little woodland paths, ponds – the variety is unreal. And it has been ranked as one of the top public botanical gardens in the entire country, so it’s kind of a big deal!

For photography, the options are genuinely endless. In one session we can move through completely different settings and it never feels repetitive. One minute you’re in a lush floral garden, the next you’re on a quiet shaded path, and then suddenly you have this gorgeous open view of the Missouri River bluffs.

Also – do not sleep on the conservatory for winter sessions. Tropical greenery and lush plants while it is snowing outside? Yes please!

heartland of america park

If you want that big, sweeping, cinematic look – this is your spot. Heartland of America Park sits right along the water with the Omaha skyline reflecting back at you and honestly it does not get more beautiful than that. The fountain out in the middle of the lake, the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge nearby, the open sky – it is just a lot of wow in one place.

This is my number one recommendation for couples who want sunset sessions. I always tell clients to show up about an hour before sunset and plan to stay through the blue hour. The light shifts from golden to this soft blue-purple over the water and I genuinely look forward to it every single time. It never gets old!

elmwood park

Okay, this one does not get talked about enough and I am here to change that! Elmwood Park in midtown Omaha is so underrated for portraits. The mature trees create this beautiful natural canopy that diffuses the light perfectly – no harsh shadows, no squinting into the sun, just soft and gorgeous all around.

It is spacious enough that there are always quiet little corners to find, even on busy days. And in the fall? OH. The canopy turns gold and copper and fallen leaves become basically a built-in prop. I book up really fast in October for Elmwood sessions so if you’re thinking fall photos, reach out sooner rather than later!

joslyn art museum & central high school

For my seniors and anyone who wants something a little bolder and more editorial – the Joslyn is for you. The Art Deco exterior, the reflecting pool, the clean geometric lines – it is a completely different vibe from all the natural spots above and I am obsessed with it. If you want something that feels polished and a little unexpected, this is it.

The open plaza and fountain out front are especially great for senior portraits. My tip: get there early on a weekend morning. You will have the whole place to yourselves before the museum opens and the light is SO good!

ready to book your omaha session?

Every single one of these spots has its own personality and the best choice really depends on YOU – your vibe, your family, the feeling you want to walk away with. That is where I come in! As a local Omaha photographer, I know exactly how the light falls at each of these locations throughout the day and across the seasons. I will help you pick the perfect spot and handle all the details so all you have to do is show up and enjoy it.

Contact Juliana Montane Photography today to book your Omaha session!

You are going to love your photos, I promise!

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Juliana Montane Photography serves Omaha, Nebraska and the surrounding metro area including Elkhorn, Papillion, Bellevue, La Vista, and Council Bluffs. Specializing in weddings, engagements, family photography, and portraits.