A PhotoGraphy Gem: Safety Harbor, FL


As a photographer, I am always looking for beautiful and visually interesting locations to capture that special photo for my clients. Recently, I had the pleasure of taking portraits at a local gem; the small town of Safety Harbor, Florida. I found that taking portraits in Safety Harbor not only offers a wide array of scenery for portrait sessions; these options are also within a very small radius and easily accessible. A gem like Safety Harbor enables a photographer the ability to capture a diverse number of photographs in a short amount of time. The options for stunning portraits are truly endless in this photographer’s paradise. This quaint beautiful city is also a great place to spend the day with family and friends.


While jaunting around Safety Harbor, I like to visit the Veteran's Memorial City Marina which is usually boasting with life. It is located just steps away from the Safety Harbor Spa and Downtown Safety Harbor. The Veteran’s Memorial City Marina includes a park that is located on the west shore of Tampa Bay where you can access a fishing pier, boat launch, walking/biking trails, and enjoy breathtaking views of the bay. You can even catch a glimpse of the city of Tampa from this location. Recently, I was lucky enough to be there early in the morning when the breeze was pleasant even on a very hot summer day. The park offered a wide range of options for portraits using the pier, marina/dock, and water.

A few steps to the west brings you to the Marina fountain. At the fountain you can view the Spa, downtown Safety Harbor, and the glistening bay water. With plenty of shade, places to sit, lush foliage, and a stunning brick wall it is a visually pleasant place to take a break and snap a view shots. Oh, I can’t forget to mention the exquisite fountain which is an artistically beautiful display of herons and water.

Downtown Safety Harbor is a real treat with locally owned restaurants, small shops, and visually appealing scenery. The sidewalks make a fun backdrop for those who would like that small town feel in their portraits. Other points of interest that could be used for portraits include small cafes, a gazebo, and large outdoor artwork. There is an undeniably cute, heart-shaped sculpture in a small park off Main Street.  There is also a local art museum that has some fairly intrinsic artwork. The options are truly endless and unbelievably appealing to any photographer's eye.

Another gem definitely worth mentioning that is a definite hot spot for local photographers is Philippe Park. Located just a five minute drive north of Main Street; Philippe Park is definitely worth visiting. If you have never been and like to visits parks I would highly recommend it. The park is naturally beautiful and enjoyed daily by many locals. It has grand, old oaks providing vast amounts of shade; walking trails with beautiful stone walls; views of the bay; children’s playgrounds, and plenty of space to spread out and enjoy being outdoors. Phillipe Park is one of my favorite places to take portraits because of the numerous options available.

I have been fortunate enough to several points of interest in Safety Harbor as backdrops while I help others capture their memories and there is so much more this quaint city has to offer . Now that I’ve covered a few of these points of interest with you, I hope you will consider having your next session in this small city gem. I look forward to capturing more memories in this beautiful and diverse locale in the very near future. Be well!