Top 5 Places to Take Photos in St. Louis
Best photo spots in St. Louis, Missouri
As a photographer based here in St. Louis, I’m continually amazed by the incredible variety of great photo locations in and around St. Louis. The Gateway to the West offers a seemingly endless number of instagrammable locations. If you’re looking for a good place to take pictures in the St. Louis area, consider the following spots:
1. Laclede’s Landing
Settled in 1764, this historic area of the city offers a stunning view of the St. Louis Arch, framed by beautiful 19th century architecture and original brickwork.
Laclede’s Landing, the oldest district in St. Louis, is situated on the Mississippi riverfront. It’s known for its cobblestone streets, historic warehouses, and my personal favorite, Eads Bridge. This area is perfect for capturing an urban look.
The Landing is also home to The Old Spaghetti Factory, which boasts original woodwork and sumptuous turn-of-the-century décor. Definitely worth a visit!
Pro tip: Tucked away between Lucas Ave and Morgan street, look for Clamorgan Alley, which offers an iconic view of the Gateway Arch
2. Forest Park
No list of the top photo spots in St. Louis would be complete without the mention of Forest Park. In fact, this sprawling oasis in the midst of the city is perhaps the most photographed location in all of St. Louis. I’m constantly finding new spots within the park, but my current favorites are:
The Muny
Model Sasha Emiri at The Muny, Forest Park - Photo by St. Louis Photographer Henry David
Art Hill
Portrait Photo at Art Hill, Forest Park
3. Castlewood State Park
A 25 minute drive from the city, Castlewood State Park offers one of the most breathtaking views in the St. Louis area. Expect a moderately challenging climb up the nature trail to the summit to catch a view of the river down below.
Golden Hour photography here can produce remarkably beautiful results. The filtered backlight that the woods provide year round can make for very cinematic imagery.
Slow Motion Video Test Lifestyle Portrait Photoshoot in Castlewood State Park, Missouri
4. Pulitzer Arts Foundation & Spring Church
Pulitzer Arts Foundation is one of the best places to take pictures in St. Louis, especially if you like modern architecture, clean lines, and a dynamic contemporary look that doesn’t go out of style.
The Foundation’s courtyard is home to one of the most Instagrammed spots in St. Louis - Richard Serra’s Joe, is an imposing earth-toned spiral sculpture that can’t be missed.
Pulitzer Arts Foundation allows for non-commercial photography without the use of flash.
The nearby roofless Spring Church (just across the street from Pulitzer Arts Foundation) which re-opened in the Fall of 2022, also makes for a very unique photo op:
Inside Spring Church, model Bejda Kaktic
5. Missouri Botanical Garden
Originally founded by businessman Henry Shaw, the Missouri Botanical Garden is a must-visit for tourists and St. Louis residents alike. My favorite spot is at The Japanese Garden, which has traditional bridges and a beautiful waterfall.
Bonus Photo Spot!
Set in the heart of Downtown St. Louis, this spot is perfect for those seeking a one-of-a-kind backdrop for their shoots. Check it out in our feature of the 7th Street Garage in our first volume of Instagram Worthy Spots in St. Louis.
Photography Copyright Henry David 2023. All Rights Reserved.
