Let's Talk About Session Locations
I am NOT a studio photographer. While studios offer consistent lighting and weather control, they often result in generic backdrops and repetitive poses. Instead, I prefer the ever-changing and unique "backdrops" found in the world around us.
Storytime
In my senior year, everyone went to a specific studio photographer. I couldn't afford him and didn't want the same cookie-cutter photos. I opted for a different photographer and preferred the photos taken by the river. Recently, I discovered one of those river photos, and it reminded me of the unique beauty each location can offer. Even when I photograph seniors at the same spot, their pictures are always distinct.
When You Schedule a Session with Me
Unless you have a specific location in mind, I will choose one based on your preferences and proximity to your home. Consider your personal style and home decor when selecting a location. Urban settings complement modern decor, while parks or farms suit rustic styles. I have plenty of options and will guide you to the perfect spot.
Permits & Fees
Some beautiful locations require fees or permits. If you choose a fee-based location, you'll need to pay the fee before our session. For permit-required locations, you must obtain the permit and have it ready on the session day. I'll provide a list of locations with their respective requirements at the end of this post.
Now, let's dive into those location options!
Locations near rivers, Streams, lakes & Ponds
Aquia Landing, Stafford VA
Rappahannock River - Fredericksburg VA
City Dock, Fredericksburg VA
Between the Rappahannock River, The Potomac River, Lake Anna and many other little spots all over, there are plenty of locations with water backdrops in our area to choose from.
Location Options
- Aquia Landing, Stafford VA
- Rappahannock River Trail, Fredericksburg VA
- City Dock, Fredericksburg VA
- Old Mill Park, Fredericksburg VA
- Alum Spring Park, Fredericksburg VA
- Mountain Run Lake Park, Culpeper VA
Regional & Community Parks
Leland - Madison Memorial Park, Orange VA
Old Mill Park, Fredericskburg VA
Mountain Run Lake Park, Culpeper VA
We are very fortunate to have tons a parkland in our area, however you might be surprised to learn that there are a lot of park lands that require a permit, a fee or both in order to have professional photos done. When deciding on a park location be prepared to walk to get to the best and most photogenic parts. I always like to tell people to bring your sneakers and carry the high heels.
Location Options
- Alum Spring Park, Fredericksburg VA
- Old Mill Park, Fredericksbug VA - Fee for non residents $10 per vehicle or $5 per person to walk in no cash, credit or debit only.
- Hurkamp Park, Fredericksburg VA
- Cossey Botanical Park, Fredericksburg VA
- Memorial Recreation Park (a.k.a. Kenmore Park) Fredericksburg VA
- Aquia Landing Park, Stafford VA
- Abel Lake Reservoir, Stafford VA
- Curtis Memorial Park, Stafford VA
- Historic Port Of Falmouth, Falmouth VA
- John Lee Pratt Memorial Park, Fredericksburg VA
- Lake Mooney Park, Fredericksburg VA
- Government Island, Stafford VA
- St. Clair Brooks Park, Falmouth VA
- Lenn Park, Culpeper VA
- Mountain Run Lake Park, Culpeper VA
- Leland Madison Memorial Park, Orange VA
- Taylor Park, Orange VA
Farms & Vineyards
Snead's Farm, Fredericksburg VA (Caroline County)
Rounton Farm, Orange VA
The Winery at La Grange, Haymarket VA
Farms and Vineyards offer interesting and classic structures that can add to a va"backdrops" for your photos. Farms and vineyards are often sprawling locations so just like park locations wear your sneakers and carry your heels.
Location Options
Snead's Farm, Fredericksburg VA $25 photography fee + $8 entry fee per person available til dark
Rounton Farm, Orange VA $50 photography fee additional $50 to use "Ivy" the antique Chevy pickup truck for a photo prop, available til dark
Cities and Towns
Downtown Fredericksburg VA
Fredericksburg VA
Fredericksburg VA
When you thinks cities and towns you might not think oooooh pretty portrait spot. But give it a chance especially if you are a couple or a high school senior.
Location Options
Other local Options
- Chatham Manor , available until dusk ( no props other than blankets allowed)
- The Gardens at Belmont - $50 photography permit/fee, available until 5pm
- Kenmore - $100 photography permit/fee, available until dark
- The Inn at Kelly's Ford - $50 photography fee, ourdoor areas only, available until dark
- Lake Anna State Park - state park entry fee, available until dusk
- The Market At Grelan - no fee or permit until 4 PM, all shoots after 4 PM require an additional fee of up to $200
