Tenney Park
Madison, WI
Stone bridges, calm lagoon, willow trees, and open shoreline along Lake Mendota. Easy to move around and find diverse looks in one session.
Permit Information
Status
Permit requirements vary - see details
Cost
Free for small sessions
Details
No permit required for small portrait sessions. Large/commercial groups may require Parks permit. Contact: Madison Parks (608) 266-4711.
Rules & Restrictions
Goose droppings everywhere in summer — choose footwear wisely.
Best Times to Shoot
Best Times: Sunrise = calm water + low traffic. Fall = blazing color + fog over lagoon. Winter = frozen lake + bridge shots.
Insider Tips
Stone footbridge = best backdrop. Lagoon freezes early → great winter look. Golden hour hits willow tree clusters beautifully.