Missoula, Montana Senior Photographer | Where to take senior pictures in Missoula
INTRODUCTION
If you’re looking for where to take your senior pictures in Missoula, Montana, you’re in the right spot. There are so many good spots in Missoula, and the best part is you don’t have to stick to just one kind of location. You can go downtown, out by the river, up in the hills, or a combination of a few places and make your session exactly what you want it to be. Imagine starting your session at your favorite record store before heading to the river for sunset. So perf! As your Missoula, Montana senior photographer, I’ll work with you to help choose or find the perfect location for your senior session. So if you’re trying to decide where to go or just want some ideas, I’m going to walk you through some of my favorite spots and how to choose what fits you best.
Where is Missoula?
Missoula is in western Montana, surrounded by mountains, rivers, and some of the best outdoor and charming indoor spots in the state! It has the University of Montana, a super cool downtown scene, and endless spots that make for unique and personal senior pictures. Whether you’re a local or visiting from another part of the state, Missoula has a mix of cool city backdrops, pretty nature, and fun locations that can make your senior session be unique and exactly what you’re looking for.
Why Should You Get Senior Pictures in Missoula?
Missoula is the perfect place for senior pictures if you want the freedom to decide between all the cool scenery it has to offer. Downtown Missoula has cool brick buildings, murals, sick record stores, and a bunch of spots for creative and unique senior pictures. If you want something more laid-back, the river and nearby trails give you open space, trees, and mountain views without having to go far.
Missoula also has some of the prettiest backgrounds during the different seasons you can choose from. Imagine your session with wildflowers in the spring, at golden hour on the river in summer, surrounded by the pretty fall trees, or doing your favorite winter sport once it snows. Whatever look you’re imaging for your Missoula senior session, I’m sure we’ll be able to find the perfect location and time of year for it!
FAQ’s About Missoula Senior Pictures
CAN I BRING MULTIPLE OUTFITS?
Well of course! Bringing a couple of different outfits for your senior session can be so fun and give you more variety. options lets you mix up the look of your session. You can go casual for some shots and dress it up for others.
CAN I DO MY SESSION WITH A FRIEND?
If you want to do your senior session with a friend, I’m so down with it. It can make your session feel more relaxed and fun, and we can get some cute pictures of you two together as well as plenty of individual ones!
WHAT TIME OF DAY IS BEST FOR SENIOR PICTURES?
Sunrise and sunset are always my favorite! The sun rising or setting is always gorgeous and gives your photos such pretty lighting. If you want more vibrant or sunny pictures, early afternoon can be great too!
DO YOU HELP WITH LOCATION SUGGESTIONS, OR CAN I CHOOSE?
I’m always happy to give you suggestions based on your style and what you’re look your going for, but if you have a specific spot in mind that’s great!
WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS BAD ON MY SESSION DAY?
If the weather on the day of your session isn’t great, we can alwys reschedule! If it’s just drizzling or nothing too crazy, we can always still go on with the session and get some moody photos if you’re down!
WHEN SHOULD I SCHEDULE MY MISSOULA SENIOR PHOTO SESSION?
I would suggest you book your session as soon as possible! Dates for summer and fall go fast and booking earlier ensures you get the date you want. Booking earlier also means we’ll have plenty of time to plan the details of your session!
Best Time of Year for Senior Pictures in Missoula, Montana
Missoula has a variety of looks during each season, so you can pick when to do your session based off whatever fits your vibe! The weather can vary a lot depending on when you schedule your session, so here's a quick breakdown of what to expect!
Spring (April - May)
Spring in Missoula can be chilly but not too cold, and all the pretty greenery and flowers start to bloom which can make for such a pretty backdrop. It's a good time for outdoor sessions at places like Greenough Park or Waterworks Hill. Just keep in mind that spring can be super unpredictable in Montana, so we’ll make sure to check the forecast and be prepared for a little rain.
Summer (June - August)
Summer is probably the most popular time for senior pictures and for such good reasons. The weather is warm and the days are longer which means amazing sunrises and sunsets all summer. The Bitterroot Valley and Mount Sentinel are perfect spots to take advantage of the sunshine and warmer temperatures. Summer is also peak tourist season, so be ready for some areas being busy.
Fall (September - October)
Fall in Missoula is a such a pretty time with it’s cooler weather and all the colorful trees. Downtown Missoula is super charming this time of year with the streets being lined with the fall colors. The Rattlesnake is also such a beautiful area with all the creeks and for a forest look. Fall in Missoula is a great time to get your senior pictures done before your yearbook deadline hits.
Winter (November - March)
Winter in Missoula can be cold, but it also offers a unique look for your senior session. The snowy mountains and frosty trees make for a cool setting if you’re into winter sports or just enjoy the quieter, colder months. Imaging skiing at one of Missoula’s ski areas or being cozied up somewhere indoors with a snowy backdrop for your senior pictures.
Best Locations for Missoula Senior Pictures
1. Mount Sentinel
For those who want a more adventurous vibe, Mount Sentinel has amazing views of Missoula and the surrounding valley. You’ll have to do a little hike to get to the top, but if you’re down, the views are so worth it! The hike is pretty chill, so it’s a great way to incorporate a little adventure into your senior session.
2. Maclay Flat Nature Trail
Maclay Flat Nature Trail is such a great location with a variety of backdrops all in one spot. There’s the river, an open field, cute park benches, and the trail through the trees. It’s so perfect if you want a one location session that doesn’t all have the same look!
3. The Clark Fork River
The Clark Fork River runs right through Missoula and offers a bunch of great spots for your senior session. Whether you're by the riverbanks or along the walking paths, you’ll get a mix of water and greenery with the city in the background. This location is perfect if you want a nature setting without leaving the city.
4. Rattlesnake Wilderness Area
Just a short drive from Missoula, Rattlesnake Wilderness offers mountain views, forests, and pretty open fields. If you want your session surrounded by nature or if you want to hike to a cool spot, this location is perfect.
5. Greenough Park
Greenough Park is a cute spot with lots of trees, a creek, and some fun walking bridges. It’s located just outside of town which makes it such a good location if you want all the nature without going too far. It’s great year-round, but fall when the leaves start to change and summer when everything is green are my favorites!
6. Downtown Missoula
If you’re looking for more of an urban feel, downtown Missoula has cool of brick buildings, local shops, and street art. The architecture in this area is full of character, and you can easily add variety to your photos by taking advantage of the cool alleys and backdrops around town.
7. Lolo National Forest
If you want something a little more remote and chill, Lolo National Forest has tons of hiking trails, forests, and incredible views. It’s just a short drive from Missoula, and it’s perfect for seniors who want a more forested feel to their photos.
8. Your Missoula High School
If you want your senior photos to be even more personal, taking some pictures at your highschool can be super fun. Whether that's Sentinel, Hellgate, Loyola, or Big Sky, we can take some pics right outside the school or even capture the spots that have been part of your high school experience. We can go to your theatre, court, field, classroom, or any spot that was a big part of your senior year. It’s a cool way to show off your high school while still keeping things casual and personal.
9. University of Montana Campus
The University of Montana campus has plenty of beautiful spots for senior pictures. There’s the iconic grizzly statue, the historic buildings, and Mount Sentinel in the background that are such cool backdrops for your pictures. Whether you're planning on attending UM or just like the look, the campus offers a range of options.
Activity Ideas for your Missoula Senior Picture Session
1. Thrift Shopping in Downtown Missoula
Missoula has some great thrift stores, and if you’re into vintage clothing or cool finds, it can be such a fun location. You can thrift a new fit for your session or just take photos with the vibe of the store.
2. Go Fishing at the Clark Fork River
Fishing on the Clark Fork River is a classic Missoula hobby. Bringing your fishing rod along for your session and having a peaceful moment by the water can be a perfect addition to your session if you love fishing.
3. Hiking the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area
If you love hiking and the outdoors, let’s head to the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area. This place offers miles of trails that wind through the forests, giving you plenty of options for scenic shots. Plus, you can take a break and enjoy the view at the top of one of the many overlooks.
4. Go to the Carousel in Downtown Missoula
Missoula has a cute carousel and it’s a fun spot to add a little whimsy to your photos. We can go in and you can ride the carousel for a little nostalgia, or we can take pictures outside in front of the cool building.
5. Explore the Missoula Farmer’s Market
If your shoot happens to be in Missoula during the summer months, the Missoula Farmer’s Market is such a good time. It’s full of local vendors, handmade goods, and live music. We can capture some fun moments as you browse the booths, or pick up some local flowers to incorporate into your senior shoot!
6. Visit the Missoula Art Museum
For a bit of culture and creativity, the Missoula Art Museum is a great spot for your session. Whether you’re walking around and looking at the art or just in front of the building’s cool architecture, this spot is perfect for those who love art and want their session to reflect their creative side.
8. Visit the Missoula Butterfly House & Insectarium
If you're looking for a unique spot for your senior photos, the Missoula Butterfly House & Insectarium is a fun option. You can have some colorful shots surrounded by butterflies and other interesting insects, giving your session a creative and unique vibe.
Missoula, Montana Senior Photographer
Heyyy, I’m Morgan, a Missoula senior photographer that's all about helping you plan a session that feel like YOU! Let’s capture your personality and bring your ideas to life! Learn more about working with me for your Missoula, Montana senior session by clicking HERE.
