Laurel Acres Park: The Best Local Spots for Spring Family Photos in Mount Laurel, NJ

Spring in South Jersey is the perfect time to capture your family's most beautiful smiles. And Laurel Acres Park in Mount Laurel offers a stunning, photo-ready backdrop just minutes from our office at Amazing Brace Orthodontics.

Why Laurel Acres Park Is Mount Laurel's Hidden Gem for Spring Family Photos

Laurel Acres Park, nestled between Church Stree and Union Mill Road in Mount Laurel Township, is one of Burlington County's most beloved community green spaces. And it's underused as a photo location. With its sprawling open fields, serene pond, weeping willow trees and blooming wildflowers in April and May, the park transforms into a natural portrait studio every spring.

For parents who want Instagram-worthy family photos without the hour-long drive to a botanical garden, Laurel Acres delivers everything you need right in your own backyard.

The Best Photo Spots Inside Laurel Acres Park

1. The Weeping Willow Pond

The pond near the main entrance is the crown jewel of Laurel Acres in spring. Weeping willows drape dramatically over the water's edge and the reflection of blue sky creates a naturally soft, dreamy backdrop, no filter required. Arrive in the early morning (before 9 a.m.) for golden-hour light and still water. This spot is especially magical for photos of toddlers and elementary-age kids tossing pebbles or chasing ducks.

Pro photo tip: Position your family with their backs slightly to the sun and let the pond reflect natural fill light onto their faces.

2. The Open Meadow Along the Walking Path

The long, winding walking path flanked by open meadow is perfect for candid, movement-based shots (think of kids running, holding hands or mid-laugh). The open sky gives photographers (even iPhone photographers!) incredible natural light without harsh shadows. In late April and May, wildflowers dot the edges of the path, adding pops of color to family portraits.

3. The Wooden Footbridge

The small footbridge near the eastern side of the park provides a charming, rustic frame for family photos. The warm wood tones complement spring outfits beautifully and the structure gives kids something to interact with (leaning on railings, peeking over the edge) which results in authentic, non-posed expressions.

4. The Flowering Tree Clusters Near the Playground

In early spring, the clusters of flowering cherry and dogwood-style trees near the playground burst into white and pink blooms. These spots are ideal for close-up portraits and are particularly beloved by families with kids in braces or Invisalign who are ready to show off their smile progress. (More on that below!)

Spring Photo Tips for Families With Kids in Braces or Invisalign

Planning a photo session while your child is in orthodontic treatment? Here are a few tips to make sure everyone feels confident and photo-ready:

• Braces are beautiful. Remind your kids that braces are a sign of progress. They actually photograph wonderfully. Encourage them to smile big and proud.
• Schedule photos around adjustment appointments. Teeth can feel slightly tender in the day or two after a tightening. Try to book photo sessions at least 3–4 days after an orthodontic visit.
• Invisalign wearers: Aligners can be removed briefly for photos but be sure to put them right back in afterward! Learn more about Invisalign care on our Invisalign page.
• Keep teeth clean before photos. For families with braces, review our guide on how to care for your orthodontic appliances for a quick pre-photo hygiene routine.

Is Spring the Right Time to Start Orthodontic Treatment?

If your spring photos inspire you to finally address your child's smile, you're in good company. Spring is one of the most popular times of year for families to schedule orthodontic consultations. Kids are still in the school routine, summer gaps haven't set in yet and there's plenty of treatment time before back-to-school photos in the fall.

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that all children be screened by an orthodontist by age 7. By that age, children have enough permanent teeth for an orthodontist to spot potential issues — including bite problems, crowding, and jaw development concerns — before they become more complex and costly to treat. Learn more about early orthodontic care from the AAO here.

At Amazing Brace Orthodontics, we offer Phase 1 orthodontic treatment for children and traditional braces. We even offer clear aligner solutions at the same price point of traditional braces all with flexible financing options. And yes, your child will be greeted by Chester, our office comfort corgi!

A Word From Your OrthodonTish

Spring family photo season is one of my favorite times of year, not just because Mount Laurel looks absolutely beautiful, but because so many of my patients are at exciting milestones in their treatment. I love when families come in and tell me they're planning a spring photo shoot, because it's the perfect motivation to stay consistent with treatment.

I see families from all over South Jersey — Mount Laurel, Marlton, Moorestown, Cherry Hill, and beyond — and one thing I always say is: the best time to take those photos is when your smile is at its most confident. Whether your child just got their braces off, is mid-treatment and feeling great or just completed a Phase 1 orthodontic evaluation, every stage of the smile journey is worth celebrating.

Spring photos at a place like Laurel Acres Park are a beautiful way to document who your family is right now.  I love being part of that story through the smiles we're building together. If you've been thinking about scheduling a consultation before summer, there's no better time. A confident smile makes every photo better.

📍 We're located at 4200 Dearborn Circle, Mount Laurel Township, NJ 08054 — just a short drive from Laurel Acres Park. Book your free consultation at Amazing Brace Orthodontics

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the best months to take family photos at Laurel Acres Park?

Late April through mid-May is peak season for spring blooms at Laurel Acres Park. The flowering trees and wildflowers are at their most vibrant and daylight hours allow for beautiful golden-hour shoots in the early morning or late afternoon.

Is Laurel Acres Park free to visit?

Yes, Laurel Acres Park is a public park maintained by Mount Laurel Township and is free to visit. Parking is available on-site.

Can I hire a photographer for a session at Laurel Acres Park?

Absolutely. Laurel Acres Park is a public space and a popular location for local South Jersey family photographers. Permits generally are not required for personal or family photo sessions (always confirm with Mount Laurel Township for commercial shoots).

My child is in braces — should I wait until they're off to take family photos?

Not at all! Braces are a meaningful part of your child's growth journey and look great in photos. That said, if you're hoping to time a post-braces reveal photo shoot, talk to Dr. Tish about your estimated treatment completion date. We love celebrating the "braces off" milestone with our patients!

When should my child first see an orthodontist?

The AAO recommends a first orthodontic check-up by age 7. This doesn't necessarily mean treatment will start right away. It simply allows your orthodontist to monitor development and catch any issues early. Amazing Brace Orthodontics offers free consultations for new patients of all ages.

How do I book an appointment at Amazing Brace Orthodontics?

Visit amazingbraceortho.com to request an appointment online, or call our Mount Laurel office directly at 856-242-2126. We welcome patients from Mount Laurel, Marlton, Moorestown, Cherry Hill, Medford, and throughout South Jersey.

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Amazing Brace Orthodontics | 4200 Dearborn Circle, Mt. Laurel Township, NJ 08054 | Board-Certified Orthodontist, Dr. Tish Henderson | Braces · Invisalign · Phase 1 Orthodontics