A Snapshot of Better Mental Health: 10 Great Photography Spots in Columbus

With our phones now, everyone’s a photographer. You can take the hobby seriously and work on technique and invest in high-quality gear–or you can point-and-shoot your way to several gigabytes of snapshots from your life. 

Intentional photography can be a great way to relax, slow down, and boost your mental health while cataloging what you love about the people and places around you. It’s also a great way to get outside and get some fresh air. Taking photos outdoors helps you focus on what’s in front of you, be more mindful, and appreciate nature. It’s a chance to escape stress, get creative, and stay active as you explore new places to shoot.

If you’re in Columbus, near the New Pathways clinic in Dublin, here are 10 top spots to grab your camera and start capturing beautiful moments.

Why Photography Is Good for Your Mental Health

Taking photographs encourages you to pause and observe your surroundings. It makes you pay attention to details you might otherwise overlook. 

This practice of focusing on the present moment can help reduce stress and anxiety. Photography also gives you a sense of accomplishment and helps express emotions in a visual way. And being outside to take photos adds the benefits of seeing new places and enjoying some physical movement.

Let’s get into it.

1. The Scioto Mile

The Scioto Mile stretches along the downtown riverfront, providing fantastic views of the Columbus skyline. This area has walkways, fountains, and sculptures, creating a nice backdrop for your work, whether you’re snapping you and your friends or simply capturing a moment in time in this city. 

Come here to get great cityscape shots, reflections in the river, and stunning sunsets.

2. Schiller Park

Schiller Park, located in the historic German Village, is a popular spot for capturing lush gardens and reflective ponds. It’s a great place to find a peaceful moment in your day and take photos. Come back at various points in the year to create a long-term collage.

3. Grange Insurance Audubon Center

It’s not easy to capture birds mid-flight in a photo, but it’s fun to try! For nature and wildlife photographers, the Grange Insurance Audubon Center is a hidden gem. 

Situated along the Scioto River, this area is home to numerous bird species, offering a chance to capture unique wildlife shots in a natural setting. Early mornings are especially peaceful and provide great lighting.

4. Topiary Park

Topiary Park offers a unique photo opportunity with its life-sized topiary interpretation of Georges Seurat’s famous painting, A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte. This one-of-a-kind park lets you photograph art in a living form, surrounded by greenery and tranquil water. If you’re in the ‘gram, this place is a mandatory stop on your photo journey.

5. Inniswood Metro Gardens

For those who love garden photography, Inniswood Metro Gardens offers themed sections like a Japanese Garden, rose gardens, and woodlands. There’s always something in bloom, making it a great place to capture close-ups of flowers or wide shots of beautifully arranged landscapes.

6. The Ohio State University Oval

The Oval at Ohio State University is a large green space surrounded by historic buildings. It’s a popular spot for capturing the changing seasons, from blooming flowers in spring to golden leaves in fall. There’s also a sense of student life that you can capture in your photos, adding a vibrant feel.

7. Hayden Falls Park

Hayden Falls Park is perfect for capturing water features. The highlight here is a stunning 30-foot waterfall surrounded by rocky cliffs and green vegetation. It’s a great spot for nature lovers and a challenge for photographers looking to capture moving water.

8. Glen Echo Park

Glen Echo Park is a lesser-known location featuring a scenic ravine, a stream, and stone bridges. It’s a quiet place with a natural, woodsy feel that’s great for capturing intimate landscape shots, creek reflections, and forested trails.

9. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Franklin Park Conservatory is an all-season favorite. If you live in the area, you’ve likely spent a nice afternoon walking the grounds. The conservatory boasts vibrant flower displays, indoor tropical gardens, and scenic outdoor spaces; even in winter, you can find a lot to like here. This place offers a mix of colorful landscapes and peaceful green spaces.

10. Hocking Hills State Park

Time to hit the road. If you’re up for a short drive, Hocking Hills State Park is a classic Ohio getaway. If you know, you know. But if you haven’t been, and you’ve only heard the name in passing conversation, it’s time to plan a trip. Bring your camera. With its waterfalls, rocky caves, and lush forests, it’s a dream for photographers. 

We recommend the dramatic scenery at Old Man’s Cave as well as the quiet beauty of Cedar Falls. If you want a fun challenge with some unique framing for your photos check out Rock House. This state park offers endless opportunities to capture nature’s wonders.

Conclusion

Outdoor photography in places like these offers a dual benefit: it allows you to explore and appreciate your surroundings while providing a creative outlet for self-expression. 

If you’re looking for a new hobby to improve your mental health, try grabbing your camera and heading to one of these scenic spots in Columbus. You’ll find that photography allows you to find peace, practice mindfulness, and celebrate the beauty around you.