Cedar Falls offers a variety of scenic locations perfect for capturing stunning photos. Whether you prefer natural landscapes or urban backdrops, these five spots are excellent for photos.
1. Cedar Falls Rotary Prairie
Cedar Falls Rotary Prairie is a hidden treasure with its fields of native grasses and wildflowers. It’s a great spot for nature photography, offering wide-open spaces and soft, natural light, especially at sunrise or sunset. There is a beautiful lake in the middle of the property allowing for stunning photos. You can walk down a path to a beautiful bridge with trees changing their colors in the background. It’s absolutely perfect for fall!
2. Hartman Nature Reserve
Hartman Nature Reserve is perfect for capturing the beauty of Iowa’s woodlands. The dense trees, peaceful trails, and access to the Cedar River provide multiple settings for varied shots. Whether you’re taking portraits or photographing wildlife, the Reserve’s seasonal changes offer a dynamic backdrop all year. There are play areas for children and lots of beautiful scenery including a pond!
3. George Wyth State Park
George Wyth State Park The park’s trails are excellent for candid photography, while the lakes provide stunning reflections, making it a prime location for landscape and outdoor shoots. I have personally never been to this location, but I have heard nothing but great things about it from Professors in the digital media department!
4. Downtown Cedar Falls
Downtown Cedar Falls offers an urban contrast to the natural settings. The historic brick buildings, local boutiques, and cute shops along Main Street create a lively and colorful backdrop, perfect for street photography or lifestyle shoots with a vibrant, small-town feel. Everyone is welcoming and most owners are willing to be a host location for your next shoot.
5. UNI Campus
UNI campus has the iconic Campanile but there are also many other beautiful locations. The greenhouse offers a fun background, while also featuring some photobombing parrots. There are lots of iconic buildings such as the Library, Maucker Union, Seerly and more. Not to mention there is an abundance of breathtaking outdoor areas scattered throughout campus.
From prairies to city streets, these locations in Cedar Falls offer incredible photo opportunities for all styles.