Best Photo Locations in Dallas for Family Portraits
From White Rock Lake to Deep Ellum murals, here are my favorite spots for capturing Dallas families in their element.
Dallas offers an incredible diversity of photo locations—from serene lakesides to gritty urban murals, historic villages to modern architectural icons. As a Dallas family photographer, I've explored every corner of this city to find the perfect backdrops for my clients. Here are my top 10 picks.
White Rock Lake
8300 E Lawther Dr, Dallas, TX 75218
Dallas's beloved urban lake offers 9 miles of shoreline with stunning water views, mature trees, and that classic Dallas skyline in the distance. The sunset views from the east side are spectacular, and the variety of backdrops—from rocky shores to grassy meadows—means we can get completely different looks in one session.
Best For
Families, Engagements, Seniors
Pro Tip
The Sunset Bay area and Bath House Cultural Center provide the most dramatic backgrounds.
Dallas Arboretum
8525 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218
66 acres of manicured gardens overlooking White Rock Lake. The seasonal flower displays are world-renowned—tulips in spring, pumpkins in fall, and the 12 Days of Christmas in winter. It's the most 'polished' location in Dallas, perfect for families who want magazine-worthy perfection.
Best For
Spring sessions, Formal portraits, Maternity
Pro Tip
Requires admission fee and photography permit for professional sessions. Book weekdays to avoid crowds.
Turtle Creek Park
3601 Turtle Creek Blvd, Dallas, TX 75219
A gorgeous linear park winding through one of Dallas's most affluent neighborhoods. The combination of the creek, mature trees, and glimpses of stunning architecture creates an editorial, sophisticated feel. This is where old Dallas money meets modern luxury.
Best For
Couples, Upscale families, Engagement
Pro Tip
The Robert E. Lee Park section (now called Turtle Creek Park) has the best tree canopy coverage.
Trinity Groves / Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge
400 Singleton Blvd, Dallas, TX 75212
The iconic white bridge has become a symbol of modern Dallas. The geometric lines, city skyline views, and industrial-chic Trinity Groves area offer something completely different from the natural settings. Perfect for families who want an urban, contemporary aesthetic.
Best For
Edgy families, Urban portraits, Seniors
Pro Tip
Sunset from the west side of the bridge is phenomenal. The Continental Avenue Bridge nearby offers similar vibes with less foot traffic.
Klyde Warren Park
2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy, Dallas, TX 75201
This 5.2-acre park built over a freeway is the heart of downtown Dallas. Food trucks, games, and a relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for candid, playful family sessions. Kids can be kids while I capture genuine moments of joy.
Best For
Lifestyle sessions, Playful families
Pro Tip
The reading room and butterfly garden provide quieter corners away from the crowds.
Deep Ellum Murals
2700 Main St, Dallas, TX 75226
Dallas's arts district is covered in stunning street art that changes regularly. The colorful murals provide bold, artistic backdrops that make portraits pop. This is for families who want something unique and full of personality.
Best For
Creative families, Seniors, Couples
Pro Tip
Early morning sessions avoid the bar crowds. The 42 Murals project has maps of the best walls.
Reverchon Park
3505 Maple Ave, Dallas, TX 75219
One of Dallas's oldest parks, offering mature trees, open lawns, and a charming creek. Less crowded than White Rock, it feels like a secret garden in the middle of the city. The historic baseball field and creek areas provide beautiful natural settings.
Best For
Intimate family sessions, Toddlers
Pro Tip
The north end near the creek has the most photogenic spots.
Bishop Arts District
400 W Davis St, Dallas, TX 75208
Oak Cliff's beloved arts district offers colorful storefronts, vintage vibes, and a walkable neighborhood feel. The eclectic mix of murals, boutiques, and cafes creates a warm, inviting backdrop that feels authentically Dallas.
Best For
Lifestyle sessions, Colorful families
Pro Tip
Sunday mornings are quieter. The streets themselves become beautiful backdrops.
The Cedars / Southside
1709 S Lamar St, Dallas, TX 75215
Dallas's emerging neighborhood offers industrial buildings, new murals, and urban grit that's being reclaimed by artists and young families. The juxtaposition of old warehouses and new development creates interesting visual tension.
Best For
Modern families, Creative portraits
Pro Tip
The Cedars Social area has great walls and fewer people than Deep Ellum.
Dallas Heritage Village
1515 S Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75215
A collection of preserved historic buildings from the 1840s-1910s creates an old-world backdrop unlike anywhere else in Dallas. The wooden structures, front porches, and rustic details are perfect for families who love a vintage, timeless look.
Best For
Holiday sessions, Vintage aesthetic
Pro Tip
The Candlelight Christmas event makes for magical holiday portraits (permit required).
Ready to Explore Dallas Together?
Let me guide you to the perfect Dallas backdrop that matches your family's style.
Book Your Dallas SessionAbout the Author
Carly Gage is a Dallas family photographer based in Flower Mound, serving families throughout the DFW metroplex. See more location guides for Flower Mound and Murrell Park.