A good photo-op spot in the Treasure Valley is hard to resist whether you’re a local or just visiting. Whether you're looking for an Instagram-worthy background, family photos, or any other type of photoshoot — here are Totally Boise's top places to snap a photo.
Boise River
The Boise River is over 100 miles long, giving you ample river banks, beautiful trees, and a few beaches to stage the perfect photo. Here are a few areas we recommend:
Friendship Bridge: Wildly popular, Friendship Bridge has the perfect view of Boise trees and, of course, the Boise River. Bordered to the south by Boise State University, many graduates choose this bridge for commencement announcement photos.
Bardenay: Located behind Bardenay in Eagle is the perfect rocky beach area for family photos along the river.
Whitewater Park Bridge: Any bridge in Boise overlooking the river can lend itself as a fun, quintessential portrait backdrop! Whitewater Bridge and the surrounding area offer many charming spots to stop and snap a picture.
Treasure Valley Murals
Murals are fun and inspire creativity during photoshoots. They add a little extra spice to any photo and showcase local artists. The best part of taking selfies and candid shots in front of murals is finding your favorite local artist!
Freak Alley: The biggest and most well known mural in Boise, Freak Alley is home to the works of dozens of artists. The artwork rotates every few years so be sure to check back in.
Address: Between 8th & 9th St. & Bannock & Idaho
You Are Loved by ISP: This mural is not only beautiful,it has an important message too. It was created to increase awareness surrounding Idaho Suicide Prevention. The ISP hotline provides free and confidential support for people in distress, as well as prevention and crisis resources for the community.
Idaho Suicide Prevention: www.idahosuicideprevention.org
Address: 16th and Grove St.
Be Kind: We stumbled upon this hidden gem during our adventure collecting content and images for this blog, and we are obsessed!
Address: Jefferson & Bannock St.
Garden City: Head to Cinder Winery, where there are two vibrant murals to pose in front of.
Address: Osage St. between 43rd & 44th St.
Treasure Valley Parks
There are over 100 parks just in Boise! Depending on what aesthetic you are looking for, there are plenty of background options to choose from. You can incorporate trees, bodies of water and local statues or art to make your photos stand out.
Kathryn Albertson Park: Known for being a wildlife haven in the heart of downtown Boise, this 41-acre park is home to many bird species and other animals. Park features include walkways, outdoor gazebos, and ponds with nearby Boise River and Greenbelt access. This park is a favorite for weddings and family portrait sessions.
Julius M. Kleiner: Across from The Village in Meridian, Julius M Kleiner is a 58-acre park with many idyllic options for family-style photo sessions. Totally Boise even used this park to film Boise's Own Animal King, Corbin Maxey.
Read more about Corbin Maxey here:
Corbin Maxey: Animal King Article
Julia Davis Rose Garden: From mid-April to May, around 2,400 roses bloom in this garden, leaving you with breathtaking photos surrounded by radiant flowers. Featured as one of our 'park picks of the week'. Julia Davis is off the Greenbelt near plenty of areas to take river photos. It is also across from Boise State University, where you guessed it, there are even more photo opportunities.
Read more about Julia Davis Park:
Julia Davis: Park Pick Article
The Boise Foothills
The scenery in the Boise Foothills is perfect for family photos, senior photos, or fun headshots. With breathtaking views overlooking the Treasure Valley in the background and beautiful native vegetation like sage and Arrowleaf Balsamroot in the foreground, you won’t be disappointed!
Table Rock: Table Rock is a go-to for many photographers seeking an iconic Treasure Valley backdrop. While vehicle access to the top of Table Rock is currently restricted, access to trails and trailheads are open by foot or bike.
The Military Reserve: The Military Reserve is a perfect location for family portraits because of the diverse scenery. Trails, the Foothills, trees, wildflowers, and wooded areas each create beautiful textures and colors.
Castle Rock: A short walk from the start of the trail, Castle Rock is super accessible to get to and has giant rocks that can be used as background inspiration.
Indian Creek Plaza: What's awesome about Indian Creek Plaza is the seasonal events that take place where you can have fun background scenery — such as the water fountain, bridges, Christmas lights, ice skating rink, etc.
Photo Credit: Unsplashed - Table Rock
Totally Boise Photography Tips
You may be using a professional photographer for your photo session, but if you aren't, here are some tips to follow that help you achieve a great photo! Golden Hour, the hour after sunrise or before sunset, will be the easiest, softest light to get magical photos. If you happen to find the perfect photo opportunity any other time during the day — try taking the picture out of harsh lighting in the shade or set your camera to a darker setting and underexpose it so that you can lighten the photo in your editing software.
At Totally Boise, we get to explore so many unique places, but sometimes the best shots are right in our neighborhood. Exploring new and exciting areas can help you capture your favorite memories. Grab your best friend and find your favorite photo spot, and tag us with #totallyboise.