6 Most Photogenic Towns In Louisiana

Many consider Louisiana one of the country's wildest and most photogenic states. With nearly four hundred communities, each parish and city has a story to tell—about life on the bayou, incredible festivals, or Southern living. From the iconic landmarks of Breaux Bridge to the Evangeline Oak in St. Martinsville, be sure to bring your camera along as you explore the Pelican State's nooks and crannies. No matter what shot you are after, from the vibrant costumes of a Crawfish Festival or the delicious dishes in the ‘Strawberry Capital of the World,’ you can only find it in Louisiana.

Breaux Bridge

When you discover a location hailed as the ‘Crawfish Capital of the World,’ you can be confident that it will have picturesque charms. Those fortunate enough to discover the town of Breaux Bridge find the pinnacle of Southern culture, from its historic landmarks, like the famed bridge spanning the bayou, to the annual Crawfish Festival, which features amazing food, costumes, live music, and plenty of fun times to capture the attention of your camera.

Cajun culture is a staple in Breaux Bridge, beginning with the shops and dining possibilities on historic Main Street. Grab a bite at the local favorite Poche’s Market & Restaurant, or shop for your vacation souvenir at the rustic yet modern Something Old Something New. If it is an adventure you are after, you are likely to find it in Breaux Bridge.

Covington

Covington is one of the towns in Louisiana that seamlessly blends authentic Southern charm with natural beauty. Many photographers and nature enthusiasts discover the town while exploring the Bogue Falaya River. Wildlife and tranquil scenery await those willing to traverse the Covington Trailhead just outside the community. This outdoor attraction bursts with life through the vibrancy of changing seasons whenever you visit.

Even the downtown area pays homage to the region's natural beauty, with towering oaks lining Columbia Street and guiding travelers to the historic downtown. From the architecture and murals at the St. Tammany Art Association to unique vintage shops like Columbia Street Mercantile, you will surely find artistic perspectives to immortalize your visit film.

Ponchatoula

If you are wondering where you can find the community in Louisiana known for strawberries, consider Ponchatoula, the ‘Strawberry Capital of the World.’ This town is renowned for its history, beauty, and quirky charm, which seem exclusively linked to the tasty red fruit, including its iconic strawberry-shaped water tower.

Nature abounds in the region, and photographers can spend hours taking incredible shots of the wildlife, fauna, and flora that can be discovered in the landmark Joyce Wildlife Management Area.

Photographers find the downtown area even more alluring, with historic buildings, antique shops, and boutiques lining the streets. CJ’s Antiques and Collectibles, timeless and bustling, allows one to capture the old-worldly feel of this town. If your stomach starts to growl, head to Paul's Cafe, where traditional Southern fare offers local flavor in a cozy atmosphere.

Natchitoches

Natchitoches is a haven of beauty in Louisiana, showcasing a variety of photogenic charms steeped in history and vibrant scenery. Cane River Lake flows right through the heart of town, creating a stunning backdrop visible from the main streets of the historic downtown. Iconic, brick-paved Front Street is where many shops and unique boutiques call home, while landmarks like Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile, the oldest general store in the state, give visitors a look at life in a different era.

For film enthusiasts and architecture lovers alike, the photogenic Steel Magnolia House is a memorable location from the classic drama Steel Magnolias. The Roque House is also a charming Creole cottage with lush gardens on the riverbank, perfect for capturing timeless shots.

The Cane River Green Market is a bustling component of town that is open year-round, offering a fresh selection of local produce and handicrafts in a delightful setting. Foodies discover iconic eateries that never fail to impress, like Lasyones Meat Pie Restaurant, serving classic Louisiana flavors in every dish and providing a photo opportunity at each meal.

St. Martinsville

St. Martinville is a quaint and charming slice of southern living. When your community gains a nickname like the ‘Heart of Cajun Country,’ you likely have plenty of attractions and locations worth preserving on a film reel. Perhaps the most iconic attraction of the community is the Evangeline Oak, a subject of a famous poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and a photo-op spot for your entire party. Adding to the photogenic qualities of St. Martinville are the festivals and feasts it holds. The Étouffée Festival happens every year, exploding with flavors and sounds of Cajun culture, making every plate of food, every note of music, and every celebration vibrant, colorful, and just perfect for great photo shots.

The dramatic architecture and colorful history of the St. Martin de Tours Catholic Church further enhance the town's historical flavor. Tiny boutiques and antique shops line its streets, brimming with treasures waiting to be discovered. For dining, Josephine’s Creole Restaurant serves the most authentic Creole and Cajun dishes, giving visitors a true regional taste.

Bastrop

Photographers will find Bastrop straight out of a fairy tale, full of natural beauty, historic charm, and pulsating community life. Right in the middle of this city stands the Morehouse Parish Courthouse, with breathtakingly beautiful classical architecture enclosed by a manicured square, perfect for a shot you might find on a postcard. The Snyder Museum and Creative Arts Center, located next to it, is an enchanting old house that merges history and art through exhibits, gardens, and a stately façade perfect for framing timeless snaps.

When you want to explore the world of shops and retail in Bastrop, head to the Pines Shopping Center. Once you have an appetite, check out Fiesta Linda for vibrant, colorful plates that beg to be Instagrammed. While there is much to explore in the town limits, you should also take some time with your camera to explore nearby Chemin-A-Hout State Park’s towering hardwoods and scenery around Bayou Bartholomew.

The Pelican State is a photographer’s dream, serving up heaping helpings of small-town charm steeped in the spices of Cajun living. From the vibrant and lively Strawberry Festival in Ponchatoula to the authentic Creole cuisine in St. Martinville, there is much to explore and record about your next trip to Louisiana. The state is more than just a list of destinations; it is an experience that immerses you in colorful cultures, rich histories, and unforgettable landscapes. Few places in the United States have such untamed and unique environments to escape your busy life through the lens of a camera.