Bloomington Photographer

Do you photograph weddings, portraits and families in Bloomington?

Where do you take portraits in Bloomington?

Local places to plan a Bloomington day around include Hyland Lake Park Reserve, Normandale Lake Park, JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America, Hyland Hills Chalet. Whether you're after something classic or more editorial, I map the day's schedule around the light so you get the best fifteen minutes at each stop, with no rush between Bloomington and downtown Minneapolis or St. Paul.

Which cities near Bloomington do you cover?

I photograph weddings, engagements, and portraits across the Minneapolis–St. Paul south metro. These are the towns next to Bloomington, plus Minneapolis and St. Paul; the linked ones have their own local guide.

• Edina
• Richfield
• Eden Prairie
• Burnsville
• Minneapolis
• St. Paul

Also serving the wider Twin Cities metro — view all Minneapolis–St. Paul locations.

Engagement photos too? The Bloomington engagement photographer page covers local spots, permits and timing.

Local details

What licenses, permits and park rules apply in Bloomington?

Bloomington is in Hennepin County, and its parks department publishes a fixed opening date for shelter bookings, which run April 15 to October 15.

When do Bloomington park shelters open for booking?

Requests for 2026 were accepted online and in person from 9 a.m. on January 6, 2026. The shelters are at Bryant Park, Dred Scott Playfield, Smith Park, Valley View Playfield and Wright's Lake Park, and they are available from April 15 to October 15. Source: Bloomington rentals and reservations

Do you need a permit for a tent at a Bloomington park?

Yes. Bloomington requires a conditional use permit for tents, stages, inflatables and similar additions, costing $50 to $200 depending on the request. The city states that a license is not required for personal electronic devices. Source: Bloomington rentals and reservations

Can you bring alcohol into the Bloomington Center for the Arts?

No. The city states alcohol is not allowed in the Center for the Arts; a liquor caterer must first be approved by the City Council, and additional fees apply. Plan the bar before you sign for any space there. Source: Bloomington rentals and reservations

How do you get a marriage license for a Bloomington wedding?

Hennepin County issues it. Apply in person at a Hennepin County service center, with an appointment recommended (612-348-8240, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; information line 612-348-3000), or apply remotely by mail to the Hennepin County Government Center, 300 South 6th Street, MC 678-B, Minneapolis, MN 55487. The fee is $125, or $50 with 12 hours of premarital education and the educator's statement, and it is nonrefundable. The county page states no waiting period. The license is valid for six months, for Minnesota ceremonies only, and both of you must be at least 18 and bring ID. Source: Hennepin County marriage licenses

Do you need a photo permit at the Normandale Japanese Garden?

Yes, for paid sessions or photos that will be sold: $30 for one day (used within a week of purchase) or $150 for a year, bought through the college's online form. Commercial videography needs college approval. The garden takes no reservations and cannot be closed to the public for a wedding. Contact japanesegarden@normandale.edu or 952-358-8145. Source: Normandale Japanese Garden visitor information

Checked against each authority’s own page in September 2026. Fees change — confirm before you budget.

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