best places to shoot in missoula
My favorite places to do photoshoots
in missoula, montana
Blue Mountain
Honestly, a no brainer. Blue Mountain has a ton of places to park. It’s easy to get away from people and get beautiful photos.
You can find an epic forest background, shoot in a beautiful yellow tinted field, or even get next to the river.
This is what I believe to be the EASIEST place to shoot in Missoula. And, I love it. Take that haters.
2. Rattlesnake
Rattlesnake absolutely has to be mentioned. It’s so accessible, easy to get away from the public, and downright beautiful.
It’s rather close - maybe 20 minutes away at most - and offers so much: river, mountain and open fields.
I think it’s both beautiful in the summer but as long as there is snow, it’s incredible throughout our winters as well.
Little bonus: drive up sawmill gulch road and find an epic valley waiting for you.
3. University of Montana
I realize these are pretty obvious but I’ll give out some of my ‘secrets’ in a moment. However, I wanted to give three locations that will work EVERYTIME.
The University of Montana is the exact same - it will always give you great lighting and great photos.
You can use buildings to get the sun to peak around. You can find benches, the clock, the bear, stairs, grass, snow, whatever you may need.
I can’t say more positive things about campus than this: it will always give you something - and is quite central.
secret spots
Okay, maybe not totally secret.
But not totally known, either.
Marilyn Park
(6000 Linda Vista Blvd)
Okay, so this one is technically right next to the park. If you walk through the park,
there is a secluded field and forest all in one.
It’s smack dab in a neighborhood except that the houses are pretty far away.
It’s beautiful, and no one is ever there!! After you get shots in the field/forest,
you can then go to the park and get
photos on the basketball court, swings, a pure grass field, the playground, tennis courts, etc.
Next to the KettleHouse Ampitheater
Love this spot. Basically, if you’re driving to the Amphitheater from Missoula,
pass it and I believe it is the next turnout on your left. It’s a little tricky to pull
into because you have to be careful of oncoming cars but it’s this very unique
cliff right on the river. Think cliff meets river meets the valley.
Extra bonus: Go to the bridge at the Milltown State Park just 2 minutes away.
Toole Park
This one should be obvious but I feel like people are not utilizing it.
There are a couple nearby rooftops and extra hidden spots around.
Honestly, just drive over there and walk around for 5 minutes - you’ll
figure it out.
