The 5 Best Places for Photos in Lansing, Michigan

I often travel to Lansing, Michigan for photos. Lansing is such a large area that it is so hard to choose just 5 favorites, there are so many options! Lansing is only a short drive for people that are from Portland, Grand Ledge and Westphalia making it the perfect spot to get your photos taken.

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Zach - 2023 graduate in Old Town Lansing, Michigan

  1. Old Town, Lansing

Lansing, Michigans Old Town is the perfect spot for urban photos. This part of Lansing is very artsy and one of my all time favorite locations. There is graffiti walls, river views, gorgeous storefronts and a park that all create a perfect backdrop for photos in a small area. There are endless opportunities in this part of Lansing making it the perfect choice for photos!

2. REO Town

REO Town in Lansing is the perfect area for more urban photos. Here you will find some graffiti walls, beautiful storefronts and it is usually a lesser utilized area for photos meaning you have a lot more space to be creative. REO town is definitely an up and coming place in the Lansing area!

3. MSU Campus

MSU, while technically considered East Lansing, could not be left off this list. The horticulture gardens are a very popular location for many photographers. These gardens offer an abundance of flowers throughout the warmer months. The well taken care of landscaping and the overall care that is put into these gardens definitely makes this location more than worth the drive. In addition to the gardens, exploring MSU’s campus is a perfect photo opportunity as well with their unique old buildings that are a perfect backdrop.

4. Francis Park

What can be considered a “hidden gem” to some is Francis Park in Lansing. This park is filled with plenty of trees and many flowers, specifically roses. There is an area that overlooks the Grand River and is perfect for any photos. Many weddings take place in this park on the weekends, but it is certainly large enough to spread out and give everyone the space that they need to create beautiful images!

5. The State Capitol/Downtown

Downtown Lansing and around the State Capitol building have some very nice urban areas. The buildings are tall and provide a lot of texture for your urban photos. The downtown area does have a little more hustle and bustle than other locations, but it certainly has many photo opportunities making it worth it. A good note is to make sure to bring change for the parking meters!


If you are visiting Lansing from out of town, I often get asked where to eat! Lansing is not thin on the options, there are so many great places! Here are a few of my personal favorites in Lansing!

-You can get home cooked, comfort food served by some of the best at Fidlers on the Grand. Expect a nap after!

-If you are feeling up for a BBQ, then Saddleback BBQ or Meat BBQ got you covered!

There are endless other options in Lansing too!


*This is not an inclusive list of Lansing, Michigan photo locations. I recommend speaking with your photographer directly to help determine which option might be the best for your next photo session!