Hi, Im Brittany and I have been photographing seniors for over a decade. 8 years of that has been in North Louisiana and I have been to so many beautiful scenes from the bayou to the peach trees in Ruston! If you’re searching for the best photoshoot locations in Northeast Louisiana, you already know we have no shortage of beautiful, diverse backdrops. From mossy bayous and historic downtown streets to elegant estates and college campuses, Monroe, West Monroe, and Ruston offer something for every senior session, couple shoot, or branding session.

As a natural light photographer, these are my personal top 10 photography locations in Monroe, West Monroe, and Ruston what makes each one special, my favorite season to shoot there, and what to expect regarding photography permission or location fees.

Coming in at #10 is Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge (Monroe)

Black Bayou is one of the most iconic natural locations in the area. Think tall grasses, Board Walk among cypress trees,and dreamy golden-hour light bouncing off the lake Fields!

What makes it awesome:

• Wild, untouched Louisiana scenery
• Boardwalk textures + swampy natural tones

Best season to shoot:

• Early Fall and Late Spring

Location fee:

FREE

9. Downtown West Monroe

Downtown West Monroe is perfect for Brick back drops, Old Hallmark Town feel, and the downtown city look!

What makes it awesome:

• Brick walls, murals, and storefront textures
• Easy walking variety in a small area
• Great for senior + branding shoots

Best season to shoot:

• Any time of year!

Location fee:

FREE

8. University of Louisiana Monroe Campus (Monroe)

University of Louisiana Monroe is a classic choice for seniors and families especially if you plan on being a Warhawk.

What makes it awesome:

• Beautiful oak trees and open lawns
• The Columns on the VCOM building and waterfront
• Mix of modern + traditional backdrops

Best season to shoot:

• Fall and Spring (especially March–April)

Location fee:

FREE

7. Downtown Monroe – Ouachita Parish Courthouse Area

The courthouse area offers classic architecture with timeless Southern charm with a cute little brick building!

What makes it awesome:

• White Building, stonework, and historic feel
• Elegant and editorial portrait style
• Green tree accent
• Variation of a downtown look

Best season to shoot:

• Spring or overcast days year-round

Location fee:

FREE

6. Layton Castle (Monroe)

Layton Castle is one of the most dramatic and unique backdrops in the region.

What makes it awesome:

• Castle-style architecture (rare in Louisiana)
• Grand, editorial feel in a GARDEN
• Perfect for senior and styled shoots

Best season to shoot:

• Early Fall and Spring

Location fee:

$125 for garden only

5. Downtown Monroe – Vantage Tower & Historic District

This area gives a more creative, editorial city feel with textures you can’t replicate elsewhere locally.

What makes it awesome:

• Big City feel with clean and light backdrops.
• Low traffic
• Unique angles and light play

Best season to shoot:

• Anytime

Location fee:

FREE

4. Louisiana Tech University Campus (Ruston)

Louisiana Tech University offers one of the most polished collegiate backdrops in North Louisiana.

What makes it awesome:

• The Greenery
• The beautiful historic buildings
• Clean Campus and flowers

Best season to shoot:

• Anytime but the Spring flowers are hard to beat

Location fee:

FREE

3. Molto Bella (Calhoun)

Molto Bella is a venue in Calhoun that offers many different backdrops from Italian roots. It is covered in florals and greenery and has so many gorgeous spots!

What makes it awesome:

• The Greenery
• The beautiful buildings
• Many backdrops

Best season to shoot:

• Anytime but the Spring flowers are hard to beat

Location fee:

$50-$100

2. Biedenharn Museum & Garden (Monroe)

A beautiful Garden with a Green House, Flowers, Gatework, Fountains, and More !

What makes it awesome:

• The Greenery + Florals
• The Exclusitivity ( You won’t have a million people taking photos around you)
• Many backdrops

Best season to shoot:

• Anytime but the Spring flowers are hard to beat

Location fee:

$150 ( In hours)

$250 (After Hours)

1. Ida Grey (Ruston)

The Ida Grey provides a refined backdrop for all your photography needs,
from engagements and bridal shoots to senior portraits and family heirlooms.
It’s not just a setting; it’s a place where memories are created and preserved,
with each corner reflecting timeless southern elegance..

What makes it awesome:

• The House
• The Greenery

Best season to shoot:

• Anytime but the Spring flowers are hard to beat

Location fee:

$75 Outside

$150 Inside + Out

XOXO,

Brit!