From marshlands teeming with wildlife to the soulful expressions of local creatives, Lake Charles is a photographer’s dream. We asked local photographers what makes this place special through their lens—here’s what they had to say.
Philip Stelly
"Lake Charles is uniquely positioned for nature photography! Within a 1–2 hour drive in any direction, you can completely change the ecosystem you’re capturing. From Peveto Woods and Rutherford Beach to the marshes of Sabine National Wildlife Refuge, the Lake Charles and Calcasieu rivers and bayous, and even Sam Houston Jones State Park to the north, each area offers diverse flora and fauna. Nowhere else in the state can you experience such incredible variety within such a short distance!"
💡 Top Spot: Sabine National Wildlife Refuge at sunrise—there's nothing like the golden light hitting the water and the distant calls of egrets overhead.
📸 Instagram: @pstelly_photography
Chris Brennan
"There’s something special about capturing the people who shape Lake Charles. The chefs, creatives, and community leaders who pour their hearts into what they do. Through my lens, I try to preserve not just their portraits, but their passion, resilience, and the impact they have on this place. Southwest Louisiana has a spirit that’s bold and unfiltered, and I love finding that in the details… the worn hands of a craftsman, the fire in a chef’s eyes, or the quiet determination of someone making a difference."
💡 Top Spot: Downtown Lake Charles—especially during events like the Chuck Fest or Smoke & Barrel. The energy, movement, and expressions make for incredible storytelling images.
📸 Instagram: @chrisbrennanphotos
🌐 Website: chrisbrennanphoto.com
Brent Woods
"Lake Charles is full of incredible moments waiting to be captured, but what makes it truly unique are the people and the connections they create. Whether it’s the energy of Mardi Gras or the everyday moments that bring this community together, I love capturing real, raw emotions that make an image feel alive. Photography isn’t just about what’s in front of the lens… it’s about the connection, the feeling, and the story behind it all."
💡 Top Spot: Mardi Gras parades and the behind-the-scenes moments—the masked riders preparing, the quiet anticipation before the music starts, the unfiltered joy.
📸 Instagram: @wildwoods_creative
🌐 Website: wildwoodscreative.co
Dan Plummer
"I love Southwest Louisiana and Lake Charles because it holds treasures that are both cultural and natural. One of my favorite spots to spend time, camp, and make photographs is the Lorrain Bridge and Parish Park in the southeast part of Calcasieu Parish. I’m calmed by the beauty and solitude of this place; it teems with wildlife and at the same time the people I have met there share interesting stories and perspectives."
💡 Top Spot: Lorrain Bridge at dusk—watching the light shift over the water and the cypress trees is pure magic.
📸 Instagram: @skysnapper56
🌐 Website: danplummerimages.com
Maggie Bradshaw Says
"I’ve traveled and lived in different areas across the country, but nothing compares to the community and culture of SWLA. This area is full of many people who are resilient, creative, and determined to make the area better than they found it. The culture is rich and is truly something everyone should experience at least once in their life. SWLA makes me proud! I am thankful to be from here, and a part of this community that continually inspires me"
💡 Top Spot: Downtown Lake Charles on a weekend at sunset. I love all the nooks and crannies of downtown. The spots where you can catch glimpses of the sun reflecting off the lake and see people out enjoying SWLA.
📸 Instagram: @maggiebradshawphoto
🌐 Website: maggiebradshawphoto.com
Share Your Shot
Feeling inspired? Pack your camera and experience the magic of Lake Charles for yourself—tag your favorite shots with #VisitLakeCharles for a chance to be featured!
