The next article in my frequently asked question series is probably one of the most asked … do you have any suggestions for bridal photo locations in South Louisiana? I get this question for both bridal sessions and engagement sessions but today, we’re going to talk about Louisiana bridal portrait locations. The following is just a few of the places I’ve photographed bridals over the years, there are many, many more! I encourage you to search on the internet, ask your friends, post on FB, and search hashtags on Instagram!
First, before I get into locations, I often get asked WHEN bridal portraits should be done. I always suggest at least 2 months before the wedding to allow for any reschedules that may come up due to weather or other unforeseen situations. However, if for some reason, a bride can’t do them this far in advance, I will do my best to get them scheduled and have their images ready in time for the wedding. I have done bridal portraits 5 days before a wedding in the past!
I have traveled all over South Louisiana for portrait sessions and I don’t mind a bit because travelling usually takes me to a place that I rarely, if ever, get to photograph. From Lafayette and New Iberia to Baton Rouge and New Orleans – there are so many beautiful locations available for photography within an 80 mile or less drive from Houma (which is where I’m located.) For each location, I’ll list the location and phone number along with the fee (if I know it). You’ll need to call these places yourself to set up the appointment and find out what the current fee and rules are. Some of them only allow 1-2 people to come with you and others may not allow children, so be sure you inquire about any policies they may have.
Click the link to see sessions I’ve photographed at the various locations.
Houma / Thibodaux / Morgan City:
Ardoyne Plantation – INDOOR: $125 per hour; OUTDOOR: $75 per hour. Detailed info and contact here.
Dansereau House – $100 per hour for portraits, contact them to make an appointment and find out details.
Cypress Gardens – I haven’t actually done bridals here but I think it would be a beautiful location for them. Free and no appointment needed.
Atchafalaya Golf Club – Again, I haven’t actually done bridals here but I think it would be pretty! You’d have to ride around on a golf cart to get to the various locations, so consider your dress and if this would be difficult. Contact them for appointment information!
Nineteen 06 Bed and Breakfast – located in Patterson, indoor location with brand new outdoor courtyard. $100 per hour before 3, $135 per hour after 3. 985 518 6819 for scheduling.
New Orleans:
City Park – $50 permit fee – I’ve recently come across some images at Popp Fountain in City Park and would love to take some photos there!
Botanical Gardens – $50 permit fee plus $8 per person
Audubon Park – No fee, all outdoor
Race + Religious – $200 for first hour, appointments necessary – Race and Religious Information
Longue Vue House and Gardens – $250 for 2 hours, up to 5 people; includes changing area – Photography Information
Baton Rouge:
Rural Life Museum ($70) – Baton Rouge – You can find information on the fees and how to set up an appointment here: Rural Life Museum – Photography Information
Louisiana’s Old State Capital – information on booking photography appointments can be found here: Old State Capital Photography Information
River Road Plantations:
Houmas House – $400 for photographer and 3 guests; Info and contact here.
Nottoway Plantation – $525 for 4 hours, up to 5 guests and dressing room; $275 for 2 hours, no dressing room (let them know it’s for bridal portraits) Information here.
Oak Alley Plantation – contact for information
St. Joseph Plantation – contact for information
New Iberia:
Jungle Gardens $50 (no appt. necessary) – Information
The Mill – $20; definitely a less traditional bridal location but if you are looking for something different, it’s a great option. Contact them here.
Shadows On The Teche Plantation – $50, no changing room available; more information here.
Rip Van Winkle Gardens / Jefferson Island – $100 per hour, more information here.
Franklin:
Fairfax House – contact them for information
Oaklawn Manor – contact for information
Lafayette:
Acadian Village – $40 during hours, dressing room available (ask if it’s open). Contact to schedule.
Vermilionville – $30 for up to 5 people, Tuesday – Sunday, no scheduling necessary. More information.
Mouton Plantation – $75 for indoor and outdoor. Schedule and more info here.
Locations that I’ve found online that I think would be beautiful for photos, though I’ve never been:
UL Alumni House