Looking for photography spots in Knoxville TN?
Choosing a location for a photo session is a really important part. Many photographers can underestimate the storytelling power of a location. When I am choosing a location, I look for great light, but also I select each location with my specific client's family and styling in mind. (I help style each family individually, and many families love to use my client closet.)
Keep reading for the five of the places to take pictures in the Knoxville area that I have enjoyed the most:
Before we get started... Some things you should think about when choosing a photoshoot location:
• The type of lighting you like to shoot in •
If you are looking for some gorgeous golden hour lighting, you'll want to check and make sure you know where the sun will set and make sure nothing is obstructing your view of the sunset. I always look for open sky so that my subjects can be backlit by the golden light, or have the sun diffused by trees (most commonly) when it is still higher in the sky.
Maybe you are looking for direct sunlight, midday lighting, or sunrise sessions - In each of these cases, consider your lighting carefully when selecting a photoshoot location.
• The time of year •
A location might look EPIC in autumn, but dismal in winter. Keep the season in mind when choosing a location to make sure that it is a great fit. (For example, in the dreariness of winter you may consider an indoor location or a location that displays more architecture than you would typically choose during the more scenic seasons.)
• Unique features you are looking for •
Do you want mountain views? A gorgeous natural light studio? A farm setting? A rolling meadow? These all play into which location you choose and where you look for it!
• The story you are trying to tell •
If a family is really into the outdoors, putting them in an urban setting in downtown Knoxville will not authentically tell their story, so keep the specific family (or couple, or person) in mind when choosing the location.
• Accessibility •
Do you have a pregnant mama that will need to be able to safely navigate the terrain of your chosen location? What about young children - Are there any hazards nearby that would keep the parents from being able to relax and let their kids run a little bit during the session? (Think about bodies of water, busy roads, or steep drop offs.)
• Permits and fees •
Always make sure to check and see if your chosen location requires any special permits, fees, or reservations.
Best Photography Locations in Knoxville TN
-> Indoor and outdoor options, fee + reservation required
(If you book your session with me, I take care of all of that and the fee is included in your session cost)
I adore this location and recommend it often. From a gorgeous clothesline set up that is beautiful for maternity and family photos at golden hour, to a beautiful indoor space that makes this location so versatile for every season, and a grassy area with wildflowers and trees. Make sure to book well in advance if you want this location, they fill up fast.
Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum
-> Photographer permit required. Beautiful cultivated gardens, stone wall, and buildings.
I haven't shot here yet, but I have visited with my family. It is a gorgeous location choice!
Riverside Flower Farm, Kodak
-> Requires photographer to contact owner and pay a fee to book location
Beautiful flower farm along the French Broad River. It can be a bit of a drive depending on where in Knoxville you are coming from, but so worth it! The flowers are stunning, and great sunset views.
-> Historic building and grounds. Fee + reservation required.
I really like this one for winter maternity sessions/early spring. Family photos with a one year old would be great here too!
I like having more space for kids to run for families with more kids, but it is a beautiful historical spot, and ideal for a unique indoor experience if the weather is bad.
-> Beautiful cultivated gardens. Annual fee + a reservation required for professional photography.
Of these options, I definitely recommend The Holmstead Studio and Riverside Flower Farm the most - And I have others in my location guide for my clients, as well as numerous locations along the way to Maryville and out into the Smoky Mountains. There are so many gorgeous spots in this area!
Book a Knoxville Family Photographer
I’m a Knoxville-based family photographer and a mama to my own little crew. I know how important those joyful, playful, and love-filled moments are to me, and to you. I love tailoring every session, location, styling, and all the little details, to your family’s personality, so that photos feel fun, relaxed, and you.
If you're looking for a fun photographer for playful and emotive outdoor family photos, I would love to work with your family! Check out what it's like to work with me, or explore more on my blog with the posts below. I can't wait to hear from you!
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