Top 5 Parks for Portrait Photos in Hillsborough County

As a Tampa Bay portrait photographer, I’m always on the lookout for stunning locations that bring out the best in my clients and their stories. Hillsborough County offers an incredible variety of parks—each with its own unique backdrop for portraits, whether you’re planning an engagement session, family photos, senior portraits, or professional headshots.

Here are my top 5 parks for portrait photography in Hillsborough County—and why each one is worth considering for your next session.

1. Lettuce Lake Park – Tampa

With winding boardwalks, towering cypress trees, and scenic views of the Hillsborough River, Lettuce Lake Park offers a natural, peaceful setting perfect for engagement portraits, family sessions, and nature-inspired headshots. The park’s mix of shaded trails and open waterfront spaces provides beautiful lighting at golden hour, creating warm, flattering tones.

Best for: Romantic couple photos, family portraits, nature lovers.

Pro tip: Schedule your session for early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds.

2. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park – Downtown Tampa

If you want portraits with a vibrant, urban feel, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park delivers a perfect mix of city skyline, waterfront views, and modern architecture. Located along the Tampa Riverwalk, it’s ideal for stylish senior portraits, branding sessions, or engagement shoots with a city-chic vibe.

Best for: Professional headshots, urban couples, modern family photos.

Pro tip: Evening sessions capture the glow of downtown lights reflecting off the Hillsborough River.

3. Al Lopez Park – Tampa

This spacious park is a hidden gem for portraits in Tampa. With wide open green spaces, oak-shaded paths, and a peaceful pond, Al Lopez Park works beautifully for relaxed family photos and natural outdoor headshots. Its convenient central location makes it easy to access for clients all over Hillsborough County.

Best for: Large family sessions, casual portraits, milestone photos.

Pro tip: Bring props like picnic blankets or balloons for a personal touch.

4. Cypress Point Park – Tampa

For a blend of park scenery and beach vibes without leaving Hillsborough County, Cypress Point Park is a photographer’s dream. The sandy shoreline, palm trees, and sunsets over Tampa Bay create a warm, coastal backdrop perfect for romantic portraits or branding sessions with a tropical feel.

Best for: Engagement photos, lifestyle branding, sunset sessions.

Pro tip: Time your session to start about an hour before sunset for golden, glowing light over the water.

5. Edward Medard Conservation Park – Plant City

If you’re drawn to rustic beauty, Edward Medard Park offers rolling hills, towering oaks, and a quiet lake—making it an unforgettable location for dramatic and timeless portraits. The variety of textures, from weathered wood docks to grassy fields, creates depth and interest in every shot.

Best for: Senior portraits, fine art photography, adventurous couples.

Pro tip: Weekday sessions help avoid weekend crowds and give you more space to explore unique photo spots.

Choosing the Right Park for Your Portrait Session

Each of these Hillsborough County parks offers something special—whether it’s waterfront views, urban architecture, or lush natural landscapes. When we plan your session, I’ll help match your vision and style to the location that will make your portraits truly shine.

If you’re ready to create stunning, professional portraits in one of Tampa Bay’s most beautiful parks, let’s talk about your ideas and start planning your perfect shoot.

David Higgins Photography – Serving Tampa Bay, Hillsborough County, and surrounding areas with award-winning portrait photography for engagements, families, seniors, and professionals.

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