Looking for Photographers in Kent, Ohio?
Get the right photographer for your photo needs.
When you seek exceptional photos, turn to Michael Murray Photography. I blend my style with your ideas for ideal pictures. Let’s connect.
You may reside in Kent, Ohio, but I can take photos anywhere or Northeast Ohio. Let's discuss what you need. See my 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 Kent, 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.
I believe every detail matters in creating stunning photography. Clients appreciate my approach because I work closely with them, respect their vision, and enhance it with my own creative expertise. I excel at putting people at ease, which allows me to capture those spontaneous, special moments that others often miss.
I’ve lived in Northeast Ohio nearly all my life. lived four years in Kent in the 1980s and always enjoy coming back.
Kent, Ohio offers a vibrant and diverse setting for photographers like me seeking to capture exceptional portraits, lifestyle sessions, senior photos, and event moments.
With its blend of university energy, charming downtown streets, beautiful parks, and nearby natural attractions, Kent provides a flexible and creative backdrop that enhances every photographic endeavor.
Downtown Kent: Urban Charm and Vibrancy
The area is lively and visually engaging, featuring brick-lined streets, cozy cafes, unique murals, and a welcoming atmosphere. The town square and Courthouse Square Park are popular spots known for their green spaces and historic architecture, perfect for relaxed family portraits or candid lifestyle photos. The local shops and vibrant street life contribute to dynamic event photography, offering colorful and authentic urban landscapes that reflect the community’s spirit.
Kent State University and Campus Locations
KSU dominates the cultural and visual landscape of the city. The campus boasts impressive architecture, leafy walkways, and notable art installations providing elegant and sophisticated backdrops. Places such as Taylor Hall, the May Studio Art Building, and the picturesque Kent State University Library are ideal for senior portraits or more formal sessions. The wooded areas surrounding the campus and the nearby Kent Bog add natural beauty and a sense of tranquility to photo shoots, expanding creative possibilities.
Parks and Natural Settings
Kent Metroparks and nearby natural areas offer an abundance of green space and scenic beauty. Standing Rock Metropark provides panoramic views of the Cuyahoga River Valley, wooded trails, and open meadows, perfect for outdoor portraits and nature-infused lifestyle sessions. Other nearby parks such as Franklin Mills Metropark and Orchard Hill Metropark offer a mix of wetlands, woodlands, and picnic areas. The Cuyahoga River and Gorge Trail nearby provide excellent opportunities for scenic river shots and adventurous outdoor photos.
University Branches and Surrounding Attractions
In addition to Kent State, smaller nearby educational institutions like the KSU Geauga Campus also provide charming and quiet spots for more intimate photography settings. The city’s proximity to Cuyahoga Valley National Park enables quick access to stunning waterfalls, ridges, and forest trails like Brandywine Falls and Ledges Overlook, well-suited for seasonal portrait sessions and creative outdoor shoots.
Cultural Venues and Local Hotspots
Kent’s cultural scene complements its photographic offerings. The Kent: Outlets at Summit Mall area offers modern, accessible venues for casual, lifestyle photography, while the Kent Stage and local community theaters add interest for indoor and event photography. Coffee shops and local breweries contribute vibrant, cozy environments ideal for candid moments or small group sessions.
Flexibility and Local Expertise
Photographers familiar with Kent understand how to tailor each session to the client’s vision while navigating local details such as peak times for foot traffic, seasonal changes in greenery and light, and venue regulations. This expertise allows for smooth scheduling, perfect timing for golden hours, and dynamic approaches—from urban street vibes to serene nature settings—ensuring that every photo session is unique and memorable.
Sample of Notable Locations in and Near Kent
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| Downtown Kent and Courthouse Square Park | Historic architecture, murals, urban greenery |
| Kent State University Campus | Academic architecture, art installations, woodlands |
| Standing Rock Metropark | Panoramic views, river valley, trails |
| Franklin Mills Metropark | Wetlands, woodlands, picnic areas |
| Orchard Hill Metropark | Mix of forest, meadow, and natural spaces |
| Cuyahoga River & Gorge Trail | Waterfalls, ridges, scenic riverbanks |
| Kent Stage & Community Theaters | Cultural venues for events and indoor shots |
| Outlets at Summit Mall | Modern lifestyle environments |
| Local Coffee Shops & Breweries | Cozy, vibrant indoor settings |
| Brandywine Falls (nearby) | Iconic waterfall, natural beauty |
| Ledges Overlook (nearby) | Stone ridges, scenic overlooks |
Conclusion
Kent, Ohio’s combination of urban charm, academic influence, and natural beauty offers a highly versatile and inspiring palette for photographers. The ability to move effortlessly between vibrant streets, serene parks, and nearby natural wonders ensures a wide range of creative options. Whether capturing a milestone, event, or meaningful portrait, working with a photographer like me who knows Kent intimately amplifies the artistry and authenticity of every image.
