Great Places for Family Photos Around Montclair and Bergen County, NJ
There are many locations in Montclair, NJ and throughout Bergen County that offer beautiful backdrops for your family photos. Some work better during specific seasons some are best for families with older children, others are the best spot for toddlers and many other things to consider! Here are a few location styles to consider when planning your next session:
1. Avis Campbell Gardens
Avis Campbell Gardens in Montclair, NJ is one of my favorite family photo spots! It's a small, hidden garden with a beautiful fountain and a relaxed feel. I recommend this location for families with older children or with younger babies who aren't mobile yet. If you bring a toddler, that fountain can be a big distraction, and chances are they will want to head straight for the water instead of enjoying cuddles from their family. There's also a parking lot, which is always a plus!
2. Ringwood Botanical Garden
This Bergen County gem is beautiful in every season! It has multiple parking lots and a bathroom, which makes it super convenient. It is a pretty large location, so I like to narrow down the best spots so we are not walking around too much. I do suggest bringing a stroller if you have little ones, just in case. Ringwood Botanical Garden in Ringwood, NJ is best for weekdays only.
3. Ramapo Reservation
Ramapo Reservation in Mahwah, NJ is the perfect spot for a fall session! Parking lot? Check. Bathroom? Check. Gorgeous lighting and fall foliage? Double check!
4. Verona Park
Verona Park is one of those locations that works beautifully during all seasons. It is definitely a weekday-only spot, though, since it can get super crowded on weekends, especially on a sunny day. There is a parking lot and a bathroom, but the bathroom is only open for a few months out of the year. The picturesque bridges and paths make for such a pretty backdrop.
5. Kingsland Manor
I have been photographing sessions at Kingsland Manor in Nutley, NJ since I started this business 10 years ago. It works wonderfully for all ages and all seasons. One of my favorite things about Kingsland Manor is the cherry blossom trees! When people think of cherry blossoms, they usually think of Branch Brook Park, which is also beautiful, but that spot can get so crowded and parking can be tough. Kingsland has easy street parking and feels like a hidden gem for gorgeous cherry blossom photos.
6. Eagle Rock Reservation
This spot in West Orange, NJ photographs beautifully in the fall. It works for families of all ages and offers gorgeous lighting. We might even catch a deer sighting!
7. Rutherford Community Garden
Rutherford, NJ's community garden is a small, intimate setting that is perfect for families with babies who are not yet distracted by a park. It is attached to a small playground, so if you have children who will see a swing or slide and immediately want to run off, this may not be the best location for you.
8. Celery Farm
This Allendale, NJ location is another great spot for fall photos and it feels very secluded. I love a secluded spot because it is less distracting and, for families who do not want to feel on display, it is a great option for comfort.
9. East Rutherford, NJ
There is not really a name for this spot, but it is one of those unique locations you would not expect to have a session at. It is one of my favorites! It works beautifully all year round and is especially great for families with older children. It is basically an empty lot waiting to be transformed into something else, but for now it makes a beautiful photo session location.
10. Liberty State Park
Even though this is not technically in Montclair or Bergen County, NJ, it is close enough to make my top 10! Located in Jersey City, Liberty State Park is a great location for all seasons and all types of families. With so many background options, you really cannot go wrong: cobblestone paths, the NYC skyline, trains, the train station, and so much more. This is a weekday-only spot, though.
Some of the best photo locations are the ones that feel meaningful to your family—quiet trails, favorite parks, charming downtown areas, or a place that simply fits your everyday life.
If you already have a location in mind, I’m always happy to help you decide whether it will photograph well and fit the feel you want for your session. The best spot is one that supports your family’s personality and gives us space to create something genuine.