My Dream Shot List for Northeast Ohio + Columbus Sessions

This is the list I’m always carrying around in my head.

The images at the places I’m dying to capture. The moments I’m quietly hoping for every time someone books a session. Not because they’re Pinterest-perfect—but because they feel like something. Honest, cinematic, lived-in, and a little bit nostalgic.

If you’re planning an engagement session, couples session, or just dreaming ahead, these are the places and moments around Cleveland, Northeast Ohio, and Columbus where your story can unfold naturally.

Beach + Waterfront Locations

1. Mentor Headlands: Wide-open shoreline, soft light, and windswept moments that feel effortless. Golden hour would be incredible here!

2. Geneva-on-the-Lake: Retro charm, lakeside nostalgia, and playful energy. I've been fortunate to shoot ONE engagement session here as of posting this but, I'm always down to make the drive out there if it means creating some moments that feel straight from your beach town fantasies!

   

City Locations

There's something about an urban backdrop that never goes out of style. Whether you're envisioning timeless architecture, cozy neighborhood streets, or skyline views, these are some of the Cleveland city locations I'm hoping to photograph more often.

1. The Arcade (Hyatt Regency Cleveland at The Arcade): Without a doubt, this is at the top of my Cleveland bucket list. Between the soaring glass ceiling, historic architecture, and elegant details, every corner feels romantic. It's the perfect location for couples wanting an editorial feel while still embracing one of Cleveland's most iconic landmarks.

2. Playhouse Square: From the glowing marquee lights to the energy of downtown, Playhouse Square offers a perfect blend of classic city charm and modern romance. Evening sessions here would be absolutely magical. It's been awhile since I've been there but, I'm dying to return with some new perspectives and creativity... Also a little trip to East 4th in addition to the chandelier sounds so tempting!

3. Downtown Chagrin Falls: Downtown Chagrin Falls has all the charm you could ask for—brick sidewalks, locally owned shops, cozy cafés, and of course, the beautiful waterfall that gives the town its name. It's perfect for couples wanting a slower-paced, small-town feel without traveling far from Cleveland.

4. Little Italy: Cobblestone streets, colorful storefronts, hidden courtyards, and incredible restaurants make Little Italy one of the most romantic neighborhoods in Northeast Ohio. It feels like stepping into a completely different world.

5. Akron Art Museum: Modern architecture meets clean, artistic lines, making this an incredible option for couples looking for something unique and contemporary.

Garden Settings

If flowers, greenery, and timeless romance are your style, these gardens have completely stolen my heart.

1. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens: I've photographed one session here already,

   and I haven't stopped thinking about it since. Between the grand estate, beautifully manicured gardens, and historic architecture, it's one of the most elegant locations in Northeast Ohio. I'd love nothing more than to return.

2. Cleveland Botanical Garden: No matter the season, the Botanical Garden offers beautiful textures, lush greenery, and elegant pathways that create a naturally romantic setting. While I've photographed the Cleveland Cultural Gardens down the street numerous times, the Botanical Gardens is a location I have yet to capture someone's milestones and happiest memories at. In particular, I envision our session by the fountain, down in the Japanese garden, all around the rose garden, and everywhere in between!

   
   

3. Kingwood Center Gardens: Every garden seems to bloom with something new throughout the year. Between the formal gardens and peaceful walking paths, this location feels straight out of a storybook.

4. Russell Township Geodesic Dome: This hidden gem has been on my radar for years. The unique dome structure paired with the surrounding landscape creates such a distinctive backdrop that feels unlike anywhere else in Ohio.

5. Inniswood Metro Gardens: It's been a few years since I last visited Inniswood, but it remains one of my favorite garden locations in Central Ohio. Every visit offers something new, and I'd absolutely love to photograph another couple here.

** Memories from Inniswood + Stan Hywet, two location I'm DYING to visit and capture again!

Nature Escapes

Sometimes all you need is open fields, rolling hills, vineyards, or an orchard to create photographs that feel timeless.

1. Patterson Fruit Farm: Apple orchards, golden fields, and cozy fall colors make Patterson Fruit Farm one of my favorite places to imagine autumn engagement sessions.

   
   

2. Mapleside Farms: Few places capture Ohio fall quite like Mapleside. The orchard views, rolling hills, and incredible sunsets create the perfect setting for cozy, joyful photographs. This has been a location (and venue) I've been eager to capture since the beginning (my mom's too).

3. Gervasi Vineyard: Being featured in Gervasi Vineyard's wedding brochure was such an incredible honor, and now I'm even more determined to photograph a wedding there someday. The vineyard, Tuscan-inspired architecture, and peaceful grounds create an atmosphere that feels like you've been transported somewhere in Italy without ever leaving Ohio.

Columbus Favorites

While Cleveland will always be home, Columbus has quickly become one of my favorite cities for engagement sessions and weddings . Whether you're dreaming of gardens, historic neighborhoods, or skyline views, there's no shortage of beautiful places to explore together.

1. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens: This has been on my dream list for years. The glass conservatory, tropical gardens, and seasonal displays make it one of the most versatile locations in the state.

2. Jeffrey Mansion: Historic architecture paired with beautiful grounds makes Jeffrey Mansion an elegant choice for couples looking for something timeless.

3. Schiller Park: With mature trees, charming pathways, and beautiful open spaces, Schiller Park offers a relaxed and romantic atmosphere in every season.

4. Scioto Mile: I've photographed one session here, and I'd absolutely love to go back. Between the skyline views, riverwalk, and modern architecture, it's one of the best places to showcase everything that makes downtown Columbus beautiful.

5. German Village: Brick streets, ivy-covered buildings, historic homes, and cozy cafés make German Village one of the most romantic neighborhoods in Ohio.

6. Short North Arts District: Colorful murals, local shops, and vibrant city energy make the Short North perfect for couples wanting something modern, artistic, and full of personality.

7. Downtown Columbus Parking Garages: One of my favorite underrated locations is the top level of a downtown parking garage. As simple as it sounds, they offer some of the best skyline views in the city, especially during blue hour when the city lights begin to glow.

** some of my favorite moments in Columbus! I love getting to travel for my photography and some wonderful people, and I'd love to make some trips to Columbus more often!

My Growing Bucket List

One of my favorite parts of being a photographer is exploring somewhere new alongside my couples. Whether it's returning to a location I've loved before or finally crossing a dream venue off my list, every session becomes unique because it's built around your story.

If one of these locations has been on your own wish list—or you have a place that's meaningful to your relationship—I'd love to help bring that vision to life. Some of my favorite photographs have happened simply because my couples trusted me to explore somewhere new together.

Let this be your sign to inquire for an adventure and your new favorite moments capture on my camera. Interested in a session or having your big day captured? Inquire today- I can't wait to meet you!