The best photo spots in Rochester, NY

Corbett's Glen is a small nature park on Allen Creek with a stone railroad tunnel at the entrance, little waterfalls, and a shaded glen. The tunnel creates soft, directional light that's hard to find anywhere else, and the creek gives you movement and texture in the background.

Because it's shaded, Corbett's Glen works well on bright summer days when open parks are too harsh.

Harris Whalen Park has open fields and wooded edges, which makes it a good choice for groups and for golden hour sessions. Parking is easy and there's room to spread out.

The canal is the signature backdrop of the east side. In Fairport, the towpath and the Main Street Lift Bridge give you a recognizable local landmark. In Pittsford, Schoen Place adds a boardwalk, canal boats, and red barn buildings.

Highland Park is Rochester's classic portrait park: lawns, mature trees, and the lilac collection that blooms during the Lilac Festival in May. Mid-May is the prettiest week of the year here, and also the busiest.

For an urban look, the Pont de Rennes pedestrian bridge overlooks High Falls, a 96-foot waterfall right downtown. Pair it with brick streets in Corn Hill or the South Wedge for variety.

For big skies and sunsets, head to the lake. Webster Park has bluffs and a pier, and Braddock Bay in Greece has marsh boardwalks and open water. Bring a layer. It's always windier by the lake.

Pick a place that fits the photos' purpose. Graduation photos are most meaningful on campus or at a place tied to your school years. Portraits work best where you feel comfortable. Brand shoots need backdrops that match the product's story.