Charlottesville’s top 3 locations for outdoor family photo sessions (according to me)
It was hard to come up with a top 3 because, honestly, Charlottesville has so much gorgeous nature. Between wineries and breweries, UVA grounds, and Carter mountain, there really are so many good options. I personally prefer locations that are wild and expansive, with lots of space for kids to safely run around, and where you won’t come across a crowd. I also love locations that have a mix of open fields and forested areas.
BUT here is my hot take: the location doesn’t matter that much.
Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE a gorgeous view in my photos. But when I take pictures of families I’m most interested in the connection between you and your partner and children. When families are having fun, relaxed, and leaning into their connection, that is when we make amazing portraits. The location is secondary, so don’t let finding the perfect place stress you too much.
Okay, now that I’ve made my point, here are my favorite not-so-secret spots in and around Charlottesville for gorgeous family photos:
1. Foxhaven farm
I had no idea that Foxhaven farm existed until a friend suggested we go there for a morning walk. It is close to both 29 and I-64 so it is very easy to get to, yet it is pretty secluded. Depending on the time of year there are fields of gorgeous tall grass (watch for ticks!) and flowering trees. The paths go along open fields as well as through gorgeous woods. There is also a garden!
Foxhaven farm has paths like this that wind around beautiful fields. Its a great place for a short hike if you don’t want to travel far out of town.
2. Ivy Creek Natural Area
Most lists of best photo locations in Cville will include Ivy Creek and for good reason. It's a beautiful park full of trails that take you through woods and along the water. There is also a big barn in an open field, which can be a fun backdrop.
Ivy Creek Natural Area
Ivy Creek Natural Area
3. McIntire Park
This location is hiding in plain sight. Right behind the skate park is a beautiful field with tall old trees that make a lovely frame for family portraits. There is the cool giant tree sculpture that can us used as an interesting geometric background. Plus, if you have kids, they can go straight to the playground (or skatepark!) afterwards to burn off some energy.
McIntire Park
This sculpture in McIntire park can be an interesting background for portraits (doesn’t she look like a goddess?)
Bonus! Best mountaintop photoshoot locations within an hour-ish drive:
Raven’s Roost overlook, Blue Ridge Parkway
Raven’s Roost is another that will (and should) be on every list of best photo spots. Located about 45 minutes from Charlottesville, Raven’s Roost is a gorgeous rocky cliff with stunning views. It is right on the Blue Ridge Parkway so it doesn’t require a hike. For this reason it's a very popular photo location, so I would recommend going here during the week, especially during wedding season. It’s definitely well worth it if you are willing to make the drive. The only major downside to this location is that you need to keep a close eye on kids because, like I mentioned, it's a cliff.
Raven’s Roost overlook
Black Rock Summit, Shenandoah National Park
This is a great place for a little adventure. This one does require a twenty-ish minute hike each way, but it is definitely worth it for the incredible mountain view and fun rock scramble at the top. It is located in Shenandoah National Park so there is an entry fee (though the year pass is definitely a good investment if you love to hike as much as I do). Just be sure to keep an eye out for snakes!
Black Rock Summit
My personal favorite mountain location: Wintergreen trails
Wintergreen is known for its resort and skiing but our family LOVES to go there for the hikes. I think Wintergreen mountain has some of the best views in our area. If you are ready to explore, it's SO worth the drive to hike to some gorgeous mountain views and waterfalls. I love photographing adventure sessions in Wintergreen. My favorite hike is The Plunge because it has multiple incredible overlooks, but really there are so many good options. Click here for a trail map.
Wintergreen is gorgeous at sunset
Do you have favorite location that I haven’t mentioned? Let me know and I’ll add to my list?
As always if you are interested in learning more about scheduling a photo session, please reach out, I’d love to talk through the process.