Grand Forks Through My Lens: Photogenic Spots

When you think of locations to take incredible photos, a million spots probably come to mind that may not immediately include Grand Forks. It definitely didn’t for me until I became a professional photographer and knowing those spots became my business. So if you’re itching to get out and make some art of your own, read on!

I’ve lived in the Greater Grand Forks area almost my whole life, so I know the obvious spots as well as some more hidden gems (some I’d love to keep a little closer to the chest, but if you see me out and about, I’ll tell ya 😛)

Located about 15 miles from Grand Forks in Arvilla, ND is one of my all-time favorite photo locations— Turtle River State Park. No matter the season, it’s always a stunning backdrop for family photos, couples, seniors, etc. And if you don’t have a subject, it’s amazing for landscape and nature photography.

Park entrance is under $10 and with a billion (jk) trails and overlooks, there are so many different types of photos you can get. My favorite time to go is about 90 minutes prior to sunset time for golden hour. It is.. *chef’s kiss*

When I’m itching to shoot in nature but I’m not feeling the 20 minute drive, I head to Zavoral Park in the south end of East Grand Forks, just on the other side of the river. If you walk down past the parking spots, there’s a trail that leads to a couple of gorgeous spots by the river. It’s one of those places that looks different every time I go. Whether there are wildflowers, floating cotton, frosted branches, or falling leaves, you cannot go wrong!

PS- In the summer it is also a quiet fishing spot, so just be respectful of who’s sharing the space that day 🙂

Next up is this little gem right in town. Sertoma Park is such a fun and cute place to take photos in the summer and fall! In my opinion, it’s particularly perfect for photographing kids, because the space is generally just open grass which is great for kids to run around. The way the light comes through these trees makes me so happy.

It’s a classic. If you’re from around here, you’ve either seen or been a part of prom photos on the stairs by Sledsters 🫡There are tons of alleys with cool walls, vines, brick, etc. And the nice thing about photographing in an alley is that there are usually not too many onlookers if you’re worried about an audience!

Downtown features some of Grand Forks’ most photogenic parking garages too.

I was a UND student for 7 years, so of course I cannot forget her little gems. Class buildings, the quad, trails leading through some super pretty parks, ponds, etc! Campus is pretty large, so some of these spots will require some walking between, just heads up!

We have a “manmade” ice rink at University Park most years, so keep an eye out for that too!