Some places feel like stepping into a painting, and then there is Newfields, the 152-acre crown jewel of Indianapolis, where art, nature, and romance collide. As a husband-and-wife Indianapolis wedding photography team with over a decade of experience, we can confidently say that Newfields engagement sessions consistently deliver some of the most elegant and magazine-worthy galleries we have ever created. From the manicured formality of the Lilly House gardens to the wild beauty of the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park, Newfields offers an unmatched variety of backdrops that feel custom-designed for love stories like yours.
Located just minutes from downtown at 4000 Michigan Road, Newfields (home of the Indianapolis Museum of Art) is more than a museum; it’s a living, breathing work of art. The grounds feature everything: grand European-style gardens, reflecting pools, contemporary sculptures, wooded trails, a historic mansion, and sweeping lawns.
Why Newfields is the Ultimate Indianapolis Engagement Session Location
- Endless Variety in One Place In a single 60–90-minute session, we can move from the formal gardens (think perfectly trimmed boxwoods and seasonal blooms) to the wildflower meadows of the 100 Acres park, then finish with sunset silhouettes against the iconic LOVE sculpture or the glass-walled Sutphin Fountain. No other Indianapolis location gives you European elegance, modern art, and Midwest nature in one walkable spot.
- Year-Round Beauty
- Spring: Cherry blossoms, tulips, and magnolias create a pastel wonderland.
- Summer: Lush greens, water lilies in full bloom, and long evenings.
- Fall: Maples and oaks explode in fiery reds and oranges, pumpkins everywhere, perfect for cozy sweater looks.
- Winter: Bare trees, evergreens, and holiday lights on the Lilly House make for moody, romantic magic.
- Privacy & Exclusivity on Weekdays We book Newfields sessions Monday–Friday during golden hour if possible. This location does sometimes require that we work around operating hours. General admission is free (grounds only), but professional photography requires a $50 photography permit.
- Iconic Photo Spots You’ll Recognize Forever
- The Lilly House steps & reflecting pool: timeless, elegant, and perfect for ring shots.
- The Sutphin Fountain & glass bridge: modern, dreamy, and incredible at sunset.
- The LOVE sculpture: bold, playful, and instantly recognizable.
- The 100 Acres park: wooded trails, contemporary art installations, and wildflower fields.
- The Oldfields formal gardens: European symmetry that photographs like a fairytale.
What to Wear for Your Newfields Engagement Session
Newfields’ refined aesthetic calls for elevated, timeless style with movement and texture:
For Her:
- Flowy maxi or midi dresses in ivory, blush, sage, or champagne (think Reformation, BHLDN, or Lulu’s).
- Textures like chiffon, lace, or satin photograph beautifully against greenery.
- Delicate heels or block heels (gardens have some gravel paths).
- A denim or leather jacket for fall layering.
For Him:
- Tailored blazer or sport coat with chinos, or a lightweight sweater in earth tones.
- Neutral palette: camel, navy, olive, cream, nothing too bold that competes with the gardens.
- Loafers or clean leather boots.
Pro Tip: Bring two outfits, one formal for the Lilly House and fountain, one relaxed for the 100 Acres trails. There are restrooms on-site for wardrobe changes.
Sample Session Flow (90 Minutes of Magic)
0:00–0:20 – Lilly House Lawn and Steps
Warm up with classic portraits, ring details, and soft cuddles under the mansion’s grandeur.
0:20–0:40 – Formal Gardens and Sutphin Fountain
Playful twirls, forehead kisses, and sunset reflections on the glass bridge.
0:40–1:10 – 100 Acres and LOVE Sculpture
Relaxed strolls through wildflowers, candid laughter with sculptures, and golden-hour silhouettes.
1:10–1:30 – Final Sunset Moments
Backlit portraits on the main lawn as the sky turns pink and purple. The images that end up as 30×40 canvases.
What You Get
- 60–90-minute weekday golden-hour session (unless we need to work around the location's operating hours)
- 60–80 fully edited, high-resolution images
- Private online gallery delivered in 10–14 days
- Unlimited downloads & print rights
- Custom save-the-date and photo guest book design included
- Permit & location coordination handled for you
Your love deserves a backdrop as extraordinary as the way you feel about each other. Newfields isn’t just a location, it’s an experience that elevates your engagement photos into art you’ll frame, share, and pass down for generations.
Ready to step into your own masterpiece?
Let’s book your Newfields engagement session and turn the Indianapolis Museum of Art gardens into the beginning of your forever.
