The 15 Best Photography Session Locations in Madison, Wisconsin

Are you looking for a photography session location in Madison, Wisconsin? Whether it’s for an engagement, maternity, graduation, family, or even newborn session, there’s much to consider. At Twig & Olive, our favorite spots change constantly—sometimes by the day. Light, weather, texture, and overall vibe all contribute to a location’s standout qualities.

One thing to remember is that permit requirements can change without notice. Therefore, double-checking before your session’s always a good idea to avoid any last-minute surprises.

Token Creek County Park

6200 Williamsburg Way, DeForest, WI 53532
Pet Friendly

This 427-acre park is a goldmine for photographers, featuring a variety of trails, open fields, textured landscapes, and an elevated boardwalk winding through a sedge meadow marsh.

Twig & Olive Tip: If you’re not familiar with the park, arrive 10–15 minutes early to scout out the best spots. The scenery changes constantly as plants and flowers bloom and fade throughout the seasons.

A couple in a loving embrace, seated by a serene lake surrounded by golden sunlight filtering through branches

State Street

Madison, Wisconsin
Pet Friendly

State Street is a pedestrian zone in downtown Madison that connects Capitol Square with the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus. Full of alcoves, side streets, and city charm, it’s perfect for couples looking for a more urban vibe in their photos.

Twig & Olive Tip: Have your couple park on the square and meet them outside Cooper’s Tavern (they have an excellent whiskey selection). After wrapping up the session, treat yourself to a drink or head next door to Rare Steakhouse for an incredible dinner.

Young couple sharing a tender forehead kiss on a rooftop terrace with the New Orpheum sign illuminated in the background

Downtown Sun Prairie

Sun Prairie, Wisconsin
Pet Friendly

Sun Prairie’s charming main street is an excellent option for couples who want an urban feel without the downtown Madison hustle. It features locally owned shops, unique eateries, and beautifully aged brick buildings, making it a fantastic backdrop for engagement or family sessions.

Young woman in a white dress sitting gracefully on wooden stairs against an aged brick wall overgrown with ivy

Olbrich Botanical Gardens

3330 Atwood Avenue, Madison, WI 53704
No Pets Allowed (Strictly Enforced)

With 16 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens featuring Midwest-hardy plants, Olbrich is a stunning setting for photography. However, a permit is required—a one-hour session permit costs $40 and must be submitted at least a week in advance. Apply here.

Twig & Olive Tip: Don’t try to sneak in without a permit. The staff enforces the policy, and you will be asked to leave.

Two young boys walking hand in hand on a garden path surrounded by lush flowers at sunset

UW-Madison Arboretum

1207 Seminole Hwy, Madison, WI 53711
No Pets Allowed (Strictly Enforced)

The Arboretum is a diverse natural space filled with prairies, savannas, wetlands, and a renowned lilac collection. Like Olbrich, a photography permit costs $35 per session or $350 for an annual pass. Apply here.

Twig & Olive Tip: The best time to shoot here is May. In early May, stunning crabapple and magnolia trees are in bloom, and by late May, the lilacs are in full bloom.

A mother gently kissing her baby's cheek amidst vibrant springtime blossoms

Allen Centennial Garden

620 Babcock Dr., Madison, WI 53706
“Well-Behaved” Pets Allowed (Must Stay on Paths)

Allen Centennial Garden is a public botanical garden operated by the University of Wisconsin-Madison. It features lush, manicured landscapes surrounding a historic house. A photography permit is required—it costs $40 per session or $150 for an annual pass.

Twig & Olive Tip: Stop at The Daily Scoop in Babcock Hall for ice cream afterward.

A mother and her two children lovingly embracing in a lush garden at sunset

McCarthy Youth and Conservation Park

4841 Co Hwy TT, Cottage Grove, WI 53527
Pet Friendly

This 180-acre park offers groomed trails, tall prairie grasses, and wildflowers, making it a prime location for photography year-round.

Twig & Olive Tip: This is a popular location for photo sessions, so expect to see other photographers and their setups. That said, the park is big enough to find your own space.

A joyful young boy and girl smiling while lying on an old tree trunk in a natural setting

Cherokee Marsh

North Unit: 6098 N Sherman Ave, Madison, WI 53704
South Unit: 5002 School Rd, Madison, WI 53704
Pet Friendly

This hidden gem features 2,000 acres of low prairies and wetlands, scenic trails, and boardwalks. The soft sunset light makes it one of Madison’s best-kept secrets for engagement sessions.

Pregnant woman holding her belly, standing in a field with yellow flowers during sunset

Lake Kegonsa State Park

2405 Door Creek Rd, Stoughton, WI 53589
Pet Friendly

This state park, located on the northeast shore of Lake Kegonsa, offers forest, prairie, and wetland backdrops. A state park sticker is required for entry, but no photography permit is needed.

A family of seven with children of various ages embraces lovingly near a serene river at dusk, surrounded by lush vegetation.

Governor Nelson State Park

5140 County Highway M, Waunakee, WI 53597
Pet Friendly

This 422-acre park, just outside Madison, features forests, prairies, and lake views. Like Lake Kegonsa, a state park sticker is required for entry, but no additional permit is needed.

Young boy in a rusty shirt embracing a smiling golden retriever in a natural setting

Pope Farm Conservancy

7440 W Old Sauk Rd, Verona, WI 53593
No Pets Allowed (Strictly Enforced)

Spanning 100 acres, this conservancy features six prairie restoration projects and rotating crop fields—including a stunning sunflower field.

Twig & Olive Tip: During Sunflower Days (if they happen - check the annual calendar), expect massive crowds and long parking waits.

A young woman in a flowing dress walking through a sunlit sunflower field during golden hour

Henry Vilas Park

702 S Randall Ave, Madison, WI 53715
Pet Friendly

If you want a lakeshore look, Vilas Park delivers. It features a quaint dock, lush greenery, and gorgeous tree overhangs.

Twig & Olive Tip: Let your clients know they might get a little wet, and suggest that they bring towels or extra clothes.

Blurred figure of a person throwing water in the air, with water droplets frozen mid-air against a soft-focus natural background.

Willy Street

Madison, Wisconsin

Known officially as Williamson Street, this quirky, historic area is perfect for couples looking for a more eclectic urban backdrop. It’s less crowded than State Street but still has that downtown charm.

Twig & Olive Tip: Shooting here and not grabbing food is criminal. Some of our favorites:

A young man sitting thoughtfully in front of a colorful graffiti wall

Lapacek’s Orchard

N1959 Kroncke Road, Poynette, WI 93955
Pet Friendly

This family-owned apple orchard is most photogenic in the fall. A permit is required, and it costs $30 per session.

lapaceks orchard madison wi

Private Property

Madison, Wisconsin

Sometimes, the best photography session locations in Madison, Wisconsin, aren’t on a list—you must get out there and see for yourself. Whether it's a scenic barn in the country or a hidden garden in the city, knocking on doors and getting permission to shoot on private property can yield some of the most unique backdrops.