It’s almost holiday card photo time. Do you know where you’re headed to snap pics? There are so many gorgeous photo spots in Central Florida. And a wide variety too…nature spots? You got it! Colorful walls? Yes ma’am! Mayan influenced architecture? Yes! For real!
When you’re looking for a perfect photo spot in Orlando for your family there are a few things to consider. We like there to be ample parking, shade if it’s hot, and a nearby treat to bribe our kiddos. We have 10 great options for you to nail your perfect holiday card photo and a few tips too!
A few tips to make your holiday photos run smoothly:
- Holiday photos can be expensive. Often I will talk a friend into trading photographer duties. I’ll take their family photos and then they will take ours.
- If you are booking a professional photographer, book early! They fill up quickly.
- Make sure your kids are not hungry or tired. I know you’re trying to squeeze 201 things into a day around this time of year but a little bit of thoughtful planning will go a long way.
- Use the light! ‘Golden hour’ is the time shortly after sunrise or before sunset, during which daylight is redder and softer than when the Sun is higher in the sky. Short answer: it is the BEST light of the day and will make a world of difference in your photos.
- Don’t stress over perfection. I’ve written about it before, but I have given up on choosing what my daughter will wear. I pick a color scheme and try to get everyone on board. And when they don’t, I surrender. I carry this outlook into the shoot itself. It’s not worth making myself and my family crazy to get a perfect photo…almost perfect is totally acceptable.
- Let your kids run around, hold their favorite toy, or eat a snack just before the photo shoot. Helping them to be comfortable and relaxed will result in better photos.
- When the kids are done, be done! You know that moment when your kiddo is over it but you are trying to squeak out 5 more minutes. Don’t do that here. It’s not worth it. Be done. Remember, almost perfect is totally acceptable.
And if you’re looking for even more inspiration check out The City Photoful Pt. 1 post!
The Alfond Inn
300 E New England Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
This gorgeous hotel has several photo spots both indoor/outdoor which makes for a perfect location. Indoors you’ll find a beautiful collection of art and highly stylized lounge area that looks like a cozy living room. Outdoors the garden is spectacular.
Things to remember: It’s an upscale hotel that hosts a lot of events. You’re better off going early morning to avoid event setups.
Nearby treats: If you can stay for a fancy lunch, Hamilton’s Kitchen, is delicious. Otherwise head up to Kilwin’s on Park Ave. for ice cream. And then let the kids run around in Central Park for some fun!
Art & History Museums Maitland
231 W Packwood Ave, Maitland, FL 32751
This unique space has five different museums with green space included. What makes it so special is the Aztec and Mayan architect throughout the property. Your kids will love wandering through and you’ll have some great photo opportunities.
Things to know: The grounds are FREE to walk through but galleries have small admission fees. There are several spots but we suggest starting here to maximize your photo opportunities. Photoshoots are for members only and must be scheduled ahead of time a full photography policy can be found here.
Nearby treats: Jeremiah’s Italian Ice (Maitland)
Assorted Colorful Walls!
Sometimes you just need a bright color wall! These two are in easy locations and the perfect shade of blue and green.
Blue Wall: 2517 Edgewater Dr, Orlando, FL 32804 This is a twofer because one side of the building is this lovely solid blue wall and on the other side is a gorgeous Orlando mural. Take photos at both and then head over to the Soda Fountain for a treat. 2020 update – the Blue wall has been painted. But we still highly recommend the Soda Fountain and murals on the otherside of this building.
Green Wall: 1294 Palmetto Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789 There’s good shade here, street parking, and the wall is very bright and fun. After photos walk over to Foxtail Farmhouse or Buttermilk Bakery for some caffeine and a sugary treat.
Chris Uphues Mural
1600 Edgewater Dr, Orlando, FL 32804
This delightfully happy mural is on the outside of Infusion Tea. It’s a great spot for a bright and fun photo shoot.
Things to know: This wall gets very direct sunlight so you need to be prepared! Later in the day is probably better to avoid too much squinting.
Nearby treats: Head into Infusion Tea for a refreshing beverage, light meal, and yummy desserts.
Leu Gardens
1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
Leu Gardens is one of Orlando’s cultural treasures. There are over 50 acres of botanical gardens for you to explore. Your kids will love walking through and there are many great photo spots for you to take advantage.
Things to remember: There is a fee to enter Leu Gardens. We suggest buying an annual pass so you can return and enjoy it all year long!
Nearby treats: We recommend Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream or Gideon’s Bakehouse!
Mayor Carl T. Langford Park
1808 E Central Blvd, Orlando, FL 32803
Tucked away in Thornton Park, this green space has ample photo shoot opportunities. Explore the park, take a photo under the sprawling oaks, or running through the wooden bridges.
Things to know: This park has playgrounds so be prepared to stop once the little ones spot it.
Nearby treats: The Pop Parlour for delicious popsicles!
Park Aire Apartments
640 N. Park Avenue Winter Park, FL 32789
This adorable pink apartment building is perfect for a photo shoot. This building is walking distance to Casa Feliz which is another great photo location, so if your family is up for it head there next!
Things to know: This is a residence, people live here! Be polite and respectful while on the property and limit your time there.
Nearby treats: If you’re in the mood for brunch head to Briarpatch or stop at Kilwin’s for ice cream!
Santa’s Farm
35317 Huff Rd, Eustis, FL 32736
This adorable farm has a sprawl of Christmas trees, barns, and all the delights of the country. Make a day of it exploring the farm and grabbing a few photos along the way.
Things to know: The farm has strict photo policies, so read and review before you go. It is a farm so you’ll want to dress appropriately: wear clothes that can get a little dirty, stay away from white, and wear close toed shoes or boots.
Nearby treats: The farm has a food stall for lunch and treats. There’s also an ice cream truck!
Soho Juice Co.
646 S Orlando Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
This fun and happy mural is on the side of Soho Juice. Depending on where you stand against the wall, you can get many different backdrop looks.
Things to know: The wall is in a parking lot so you’ll need to keep an eye on your kiddos.
Nearby treats: Walk right inside Soho Juice for fresh and healthy treats.
Wall Crawl
1016 W Church St Suite C, Orlando, FL 32805
This indoor photo studio more than a dozen walls set up for your photo taking pleasure. Your family will have fun running through it and choosing where to take pictures. There are different styles and settings and even props to play with and use. Wall Crawl also has ‘instagram husbands’ walking around that will take photos for you (with your phone – not your DSLR).
Things to know: You will need to purchase tickets to enter. Pricing for kids is very reasonable.
Nearby treats: The Greenery Creamery
Where’s your favorite photo spot? Got a perfect one lined up for the holidays? Tell us in the comments!
