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. Keep reading for the five of the places to take pictures in Knoxville (ish) that I am the most excited about!
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.
Five Great Photography Spots in Knoxville TN
-> Indoor and outdoor options, fee + reservation required
Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum
-> Photographer permit required. Beautiful cultivated gardens, stone wall, and buildings.
-> Gorgeous rolling woodlands with trails, water, beautiful overhanging branches, quarries, and more.
-> Historic building and grounds. Fee + reservation required.
-> Beautiful cultivated gardens. Annual fee + a reservation required for professional photography.
Bonus Suggestion!
-> Public park with beautiful views, playground nearby, etc.,
No matter the season, style, or story you want to tell, Knoxville offers an incredible variety of locations to suit any photoshoot vision. From historic architecture to lush gardens, rolling meadows, or serene lakeside views, there’s something for every style!
Now that you've found a location, the next step is choosing outfits! Check out my blog on this if you need some help figuring out where to start and suggestions for my favorite retailers for beautiful photoshoot outfits for the whole family.
Heartfelt & Joyful Photography
Hi, my name is
Susannah!
Capturing the beauty in everyday motherhood moments and embracing the nostalgia of childhood.
Welcome, my name is Susannah! I'm a follower of Christ, wife, fellow mama, and lover of photographs.
Being a mother is my greatest joy, I love helping moms create beautiful family pictures with their husband and children. I help you relax and feel comfortable in front of my camera so that your true personalities can really shine through, creating timeless treasured pieces of art that you'll cherish.
I believe photos are about telling the story of your child's boisterous laughter, your newborn's curled fingers around your own, your daughter's special snuggle against her daddy's chest, the sun catching the curls bouncing as your toddler tumbles into your arms, & the tender warmth of being wrapped in your husband's embrace. These are the moments you'll want to remember!
I love to get to know you, the things that are special to you, the things that you want to remember, and tailoring sessions to each family to tell your story in an intentional and meaningful way.
