If you are looking for family photo locations in Palm Harbor, here is the simplest way to choose a spot.
Pick a place with good light, simple backgrounds, and enough space for your kids to move. That is it.
Below are 9 named locations in and around Palm Harbor that consistently work well for family photos.
Permit note
Some locations require a permit, a fee, or proof of insurance depending on how the session is conducted. For Pinellas County parks, permit rules depend on what you are doing and the equipment used. For Florida State Parks, there is a formal photography permit application.
If your chosen location requires a permit or fee, the client is responsible for securing it. I am happy to point you to the right link.
1) Wall Springs Park
This is one of the best all around spots in Palm Harbor because it has variety in one place. It connects to the Pinellas Trail and includes boardwalk areas and an observation tower.
Best for: families who want an easy park with multiple looks and no long hike.
2) John Chesnut Sr. Park
A great choice if you want trails, boardwalk vibes, and nature along Lake Tarpon. It is a large park with multiple nature trails.
Best for: kids who do well walking and exploring.
3) Brooker Creek Preserve
If you want “wild Florida” without going far, this is it. It is one of the largest natural areas in Pinellas County and is known for forested wetlands and pine flatwoods.
Best for: nature heavy images with lots of texture and shade.
4) Pop Stansell Park
A solid waterfront park option with a playground, shelters, and a boat launch area for non motorized use.
Best for: families who want water nearby without a full beach session.
5) Sutherland Bayou Boat Ramp
This is a simple spot for open sky and water views, especially near sunset. It also has direct access to St. Joseph Sound.
Best for: a quick waterfront look with minimal walking.
6) Sunderman Complex
Not a “scenic nature preserve” spot, but it is great when you want open space and clean backgrounds that keep the focus on your family. It is a big sports complex with multiple fields.
Best for: little kids who need room to run, and parents who want easy parking.
7) A.L. Anderson Park
Just north of Palm Harbor, and a great option when you want wooded areas, shoreline trail vibes, and water views.
Best for: families who want shade plus water in the background.
8) Fred Howard Park
Another nearby favorite for sunsets, open sky, and that clean coastal look. The park includes a causeway leading out to the beach area.
Best for: families who want a beach look with strong sunset potential.
9) Innisbrook Resort
This is a beautiful Palm Harbor setting, but it is private property. If you want to shoot here, you need permission and sometimes restrictions apply.
Best for: families who are staying on property and want a polished resort feel.
How to choose the right Palm Harbor location fast
Pick the vibe first, then I help you match the spot.
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Want easy variety and boardwalks? Choose Wall Springs Park.
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Want trails and “Florida woods”? Choose John Chesnut Sr. Park or Brooker Creek Preserve.
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Want water without beach crowds? Choose Pop Stansell Park or Sutherland Bayou.
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Want a beach look? Choose Fred Howard Park.
Best time of day for Palm Harbor photos
Most of these spots look best:
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the last 60 to 90 minutes before sunset
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or 60 to 90 minutes after sunrise (great for little kids and fewer crowds)
Also serving families in New Port Richey, Trinity, Odessa, Palm Harbor, and Clearwater