Heading to prom? Here are some of the best places to take photos in the Rockford area
Are you heading to prom in the coming weeks or do you have a child who is? Now is the time to be thinking about where to take photos on the big day.
We asked a couple local photographers for their recommendations of go-to spots and even a couple that are more off the beaten path for your consideration.
Baumann Park, Cherry Valley
The park is adjacent to the Kishwaukee River and has a paved walking path runs through the park and loops around Baumann Park Lake.
Downtown Belvidere
The City of Murals has a downtown streetscape lined with old buildings many of which are decorated with murals.
Downtown Rockford
East State Street in downtown Rockford also has its share of historic buildings leading to Joe Marino Park at 100 N. Water St., the scenic Rock River and Millennium Fountain.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront
Take your pick between the clean white building at 416 S. Main St. or the Rock River. Don't forget about the rooftop, too.
Federal Courthouse
Mindy Joy Nutter Young of Mindy Joy Photography said she likes to take a non-traditional approach when it comes to prom pictures. So, if you are looking for a location without a lot of foot traffic, you might try the federal courthouse at 327 S. Church St., Rockford.
"It's a cool, clean modern backdrop," Young said. "People in their prom outfits will really pop against this."
Historic Baltic Mill
From late spring to early fall, the mill at, 920 W. Lincoln Ave. in Belvidere, is a treat for the senses. Visually, the site is attractive with vibrant flowerbeds, and the sound of the mill race is pleasing to the ears.
Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden
The 155-acre site at 2715 S. Main St. in Rockford is filled with various species of trees, flowering plants and walking paths.
Krape Park
Krape Park, 1799 Park Blvd. in Freeport, is located in the heart of Freeport and features numerous spots to snap some pictures such as on the antique carousel, near the waterfall or duck pond.
Macktown Forest Preserve
Macktown, the first settlement in Winnebago County, is a combination of open spaces dotted with historic rustic buildings at 2221 Freeport Road in Rockton.
Midway Village Museum
Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, has a picturesque walking path that surrounds a prairie. If you are quiet enough, a deer might photo bomb the picture.
Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens, 1354 N. Second St., Rockford
Nicolas Conservatory and Gardens and Sinnissippi Gardens, 1354 N. Second St. in Rockford, is region's premiere outdoor destination for just about all special occasions.
The gardens can get crowded during prom season. Rockford photographer Tamir Bell reminded prom-goers to enjoy the moment. "Make sure you smile," Bell said. "It's your day."
Rooftop parking decks
In addition to the Embassy Suites, you can get a bird's eye view of Rockford from The Standard or from the top of a handful of downtown parking decks.
Chris Green is a Rockford Register Star general assignment reporter. He can be reached at 815-987-1241, via email at cgreen@rrstar.com, and Twitter @chrisfgreen
This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Top places to take prom photos in the Rockford area
