The KEY to capturing a great photograph is all about location and background. Over the past 4 years, I’ve shot in hundreds of great locations all over the country. In this list, I want to share with you 9 great locations throughout Ashland, OH that make for some of the best backgrounds our little town has to offer. The next time you’re out on a stroll or just looking to take some fun family snapshots, consider some of these local spots.
1. Brookside West
Brookside West is a fun, adventurous spot to take pictures, play with your kids, play sports, and to just enjoy the gorgeous view! There are so many beautiful spots as shown in these examples. From the bridges to the pond, there are some really great spots I’ve found while capturing senior portraits!
You can get such a great mix of backgrounds at Brookside West – it’s truly a gem. I’ve done entire senior sessions at the park and never ran out of unique backgrounds.
2. Brookside East Creek
Brookside East Creek was discovered by one of my seniors and I am absolutely ecstatic about it! The colors, texture, and bridges we found are great for a perfect picture! During the Fall, those colors are to die for! So, if you’re willing to get your feet wet, definitely check this one out the next time you’re down at the Brookside East Park.
3. Downtown Perk
Now if my last name doesn’t say it already, I love Coffy…I mean coffee 😉
With permission, I’ve taken some seniors and even engaged couples into Downtown Perk some super fun images! The main dining area is decorated sort of “50s retro” and they’ve got a really cool back room that makes for a nice shooting space.
Just remember, if Downtown Perk allows you to shoot in their store, be sure to buy lots of coffee and support this wonderful local business!
4. Ashland University
Ashland University built their brand new Jack Miller Stadium in 2009 and it was definitely a great addition to the city! I love shooting under the grandstands and around the grounds. The structures make for some great leading lines.
The campus itself is very nice with the different buildings and landscaping! The possibilities are endless.
5. Mitchell’s Orchard
Here’s another local business that makes for great location – Mitchell’s Orchard. With rows of apple trees, grape vines, stacks of crates, and more, Mitchell’s Orchard is a win when it comes to capturing some very nice portraits on not-so-typical backgrounds.
You’ll have to get permission if you want to use this location, but the owners are really nice and friendly. Be sure to stop in the little store and grab a tasty snack or beverage to help keep amazing businesses like this one around.
6. Trinity Lutheran
Trinity Lutheran Church was built off of an old mansion – cool right?! Behind the mansion sits a gorgeous, little rose garden. It’s definitely a hidden gem! With permission, be sure to check this one out!
7. Pump House
What’s not to love about some rubble? Pump House is currently in the process of demolition on some of their buildings and basically created the coolest background around!
With permission, I’ve shot around the buildings and gotten some really cool textures. It’ll be a shame to this “beautiful” rubble taken away!
8. Downtown Ashland
Often overlooked, our downtown has so many great spots! From alleyways to Main Street, you’re bound to find some great backgrounds. A personal favorite spot of mine is in front of some of the storefronts like Clothes Minded Boutique, Juliana Bridal, and the Uniontown Brewing Co. building.
Downtown is constantly changing. Make the most of our wonderful downtown and find those hidden spots – there are tons of them!
9. Coffy Creations Studio
Shameless plug! I want to break the mindset that studio portraits are bland and boring. Check out some of these images I captured from recent senior sessions in our one-of-a-kind studio.
The studio is located in downtown Ashland. I love capturing fashion/contemporary style images with the brick and gray backgrounds.
[BONUS] Secret Location
Okay…that’s not very nice of me to keep this place secret, but you can see why! Tall grass, trees, and seclusion sitting on about 10 acres of land. This place has it all and is an absolute favorite of mine.
If you booked Coffy Creations for senior portraits, this is one of the amazing spots we’ll make available for you depending on what kind of shoot you’re looking for.
Do you know of some great locations I didn’t list above? Leave a comment below and tell me! Maybe I’ll use it in the next shoot 😉
Ashland County Parks 🙂 and truly yours fashion mural
Yes! I should have added Freer Field now that you mentioned that – love shooting there 🙂
Jamison Creek off of Davis Rd South
Oh, good one Sandie!
Love Bella Bleu’s at The Waters Edge – Lots of trees along the waters edge and beautiful backdrops. Even the brick along the building has unique texture and detail.
Great idea, Teresa! That whole area is super pretty and that patio would make for some really fun, lifestyle photos. I may have to use this one 😉
Ashland cemetery is another great location. The creek running through there and the trees in the fall.
Never would have thought of that one, Missy! Love it.