Secret Garden Vibes Family Pictures near South Bend, Indiana
This location has been on my radar for a few years! As luck would have it, I was at my son’s baseball tournament just two miles away when Amber and I were discussing where to take her family for their photos. After photographing many different locations, I sneaked over during warm-ups to check out the garden that I'd heard so much about from all my South Bend photographer friends. And let me tell you, this place is gorgeous!
Defries Garden
DeFries Garden, originally a large homestead, is an absolute gem. With its charming garden buildings, nooks, crannies, and stunning architecture, it’s the perfect backdrop for the lifestyle family photography I love to create.
This location is ideal for families who enjoy a more manicured look. The garden is planted for every one of the 365 days of the year—how unique is that? With its beautiful brick paths, water features, and four main buildings—including the cutest greenhouse—you’re guaranteed a variety of lovely spots to shoot.
What I love about DeFries is how the structures provide great spots for leaning, sitting, and walking through. The contrast with the wide-open fields you often see in the area makes the portraits feel more relaxed and grounded. Even the smallest ones can enjoy this setting, with its large, walkable grounds. No need for long hikes, just lots of beautiful photo opportunities in a small area!
And yes, the property even has a clean bathroom, which is always a plus for families with little ones! This place is truly wonderful.
Details I’m Loving
I could’ve shot at this amazing location for hours! But with my little models (4 under 4), I had to keep a tighter schedule. Ha! Having arms full of babies at such a swoony place makes it all worth it. It was an absolutely great day on a beautiful Sunday evening!
One of my favorite shots was of dad holding all four of his kids! Every time we meet, another child joins the family, but dad always manages to make this shot happen!
I also can’t help but mention the mini film that some clients add to their sessions. It’s always a thrill for me! I’m a big fan of family videography, and it makes capturing these moments even more special.
Client Love
Reactions
“Well, totally just cried my eyes out! I don’t know how I’m even going to pick which ones to put in the album!
The kids love looking through the albums. They also keep watching all the videos you have made. They love them and I wish you could have seen their faces while watching them. Those videos will forever be the sweetest gift you’ve given me.”
DeFries Garden in New Paris, Indiana is worth the 30 minute drive from the south side of South Bend. It’s a new favorite, with gorgeous textures, manicured sections, wild sections, cutie little buildings that give secret garden vibes and provide amazing focal points. It’s just the best!