Looking for Photographers in Summit County Ohio?
Get the right photographer for your photo needs.
When you want excellent photos, turn to Michael Murray Photography. I combine your preferences with my creative style. Let’s talk.
You may reside in Summit County, but I can take photos anywhere or Northeast Ohio. Let's talk about your plans. Be sure to explore samples below.
“The final images are simply breathtaking, and we will cherish them for years to come.”
– Kristi Waski
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Photo options in and near Summit County, Ohio include:
- Lifestyle portraits that show individuals, couples and larger families in natural settings – playing, laughing, walking, hugging.
- Senior portraits in different locations and wardrobe changes
- Photos for acting, modeling portfolios
- Pet photos
- Events – birthdays, retirement parties, and more.
Attention to every detail is fundamental in photography. Clients appreciate working with me because I collaborate closely with them, honor their ideas and plans, and enhance our sessions with my creative insights. I create a relaxed atmosphere that helps people feel comfortable and natural, and I have a knack for noticing and preserving those special moments that often go unseen by others, making every photo session truly memorable.
I’ve lived in Northeast Ohio nearly all my life. I take pictures in the area all the time.
Summit County, Ohio, is a remarkable location for photography, offering a diverse mix of urban excitement, rich history, and stunning natural beauty that make it especially well-suited for portraits, family sessions, senior photography, and event coverage.
Natural Beauty and Scenic Parks
At the heart of Summit County’s outdoor appeal is Cuyahoga Valley National Park, a vast natural area with waterfalls such as Brandywine Falls, beautiful wooded trails, and open fields. This national park provides countless picturesque backdrops perfect for outdoor portraits that capture the essence of nature and personal moments in a serene setting. Summit Metro Parks further expand the options with numerous parks like Cascade Valley Park and Gorge Metro Park, featuring dramatic overlooks, river views, and forested trails that allow for versatile photo opportunities, from candid lifestyle shots to more formal portraits.
The county is also home to the F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, a beautifully maintained nature preserve where manicured landscapes and natural surroundings offer peaceful, charming environments for photography. The Akron Zoo complements this with spaces that bring a lively and engaging atmosphere to photos, especially for family sessions seeking a fun and interactive backdrop.
Historic and Cultural Venues
Summit County offers iconic historic settings such as Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens—a grand historic estate with exquisite gardens, classic architecture, and scenic grounds that deliver timeless elegance to portraiture. The estate’s combination of natural and formal design elements sets a sophisticated tone, ideal for capturing meaningful and artistic images.
Small towns like Peninsula feature historic architecture, quaint streets, and scenic bridges like the Everett Covered Bridge, all contributing rustic, nostalgic, and distinctly charming locations for various types of photo sessions. These places add character and warmth to photos, connecting subjects to the region’s rich heritage.
Urban and Community Spaces
The city of Akron, the centerpiece of Summit County, combines urban vibrancy with community spirit. Downtown areas such as Lock 3 and Lock 4 along the Ohio & Erie Canal provide lively public spaces with historic canal locks, waterfalls, and vibrant lighting that create dynamic urban photo backdrops. These areas are well suited for capturing even casual or celebratory events with a touch of city life flair.
Akron also supports a lively cultural scene with venues such as the Akron Art Museum and Bloom Music Center nearby, reflecting an artsy ambiance that enhances photography sessions focused on modern and creative expressions. Nearby parks and pedestrian zones offer relaxed spaces that encourage candid moments.
Expertise and Flexibility
My deep understanding of Summit County’s geography, seasonal changes, and lighting conditions allows me to select the best locations and timing for shoots that meet client goals while maximizing natural beauty. I am flexible and client-focused, accommodating preferences and schedules to ensure every session offers comfort, creativity, and exceptional results. Whether working outdoors amidst nature or in historic or urban settings, I bring a professional, adaptable approach to highlight individual personalities and stories through my lens.
Why Hire Me?
Choosing me as your photographer means gaining access to a personalized experience rooted in comprehensive local knowledge and creative vision. I harness Summit County’s diverse venues—from tranquil natural parks and historic estates to vibrant urban environments—to create stunning photo sessions tailored to you. My goal is to deliver timeless images that capture your unique moments with artistry and heart, all while making the process enjoyable and effortless.
Notable Summit County Photo Locations
Cuyahoga Valley National Park: waterfalls, forest trails, scenic overlooks
Summit Metro Parks: Cascade Valley Park, Gorge Metro Park, sprawling natural settings
Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens: historic estate and elegant gardens
Everett Covered Bridge: iconic rustic bridge and picturesque surroundings
Downtown Akron: Lock 3, Lock 4, public art, and canal views
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm and Akron Zoo: nature preserves and interactive animal settings
These thoughtfully chosen locations offer a variety of settings that enhance portraits and event photography, making Summit County an ideal place for capturing meaningful, lasting images.
This blend of expertise, flexibility, and local insight ensures that every session in Summit County results in beautiful, memorable photographs that truly reflect you. Whether it’s a family milestone, senior portraits, or special event, your experience will be exceptional from start to finish.
Here is Tree Farm Trail in Peninsla.








































