There are a few locations in the Charleston area that I LOVE to shoot at. I am happy to travel to you if you have some place specific in mind, but if you are looking for that perfect look and unsure where to go, here are a few suggestions.

Isle of Palms Beach (IOP)

If you are looking for a beautiful beach to take photos on I recommend Isle of Palms. There is a specific spot I love, just mention IOP and I can give you directions to the access point. You can park along Palm Blvd. or side streets in any area without 'No Parking' signs. Just be sure to have all your tires off the road, and on the inside of the white painted lines to park legally.

Washington Square Park

One of my favorite downtown areas is around Washington Square Park. This area has pretty flowers, historical stone monuments, iron fences and large oak trees within the park. Peek around the corner and you'll notice brick and pastel colored houses down a cobblestone street lined with gas lanterns; all this within a city block of walking. It is a perfect backdrop if you are wanting that classic 'Charleston look' for a small family or couple's session! The Charleston County Parking Garage entrance is just across Meeting Street.

Rainbow Row

I especially love photographing couple's sessions at Rainbow Row. This area has so many beautiful pastel colored houses and even a cobblestone street. It is located just along the battery on East Bay Street, so we can venture over to the water for a few photos also. I usually avoid doing family sessions in this area only because it can get quite populated - it is a tourist attraction! But for couples it is PERFECT! East Bay Parking Garage is the closest garage in the area, but you might luck out and find a meter parking spot. Charleston parking meters accept credit cards now, so don't stress if you are out of quarters!

White Point Garden

White Point Garden is definitely one of my all time personal favs. At the very tip of the peninsula, this park is right along the Battery, and also offers that 'downtown Charleston look' because of the historical houses just a few steps away. The park itself is lined with sweeping oak trees and a large white gazebo, popular for wedding ceremonies. Usually you can find street parking along Murray Boulevard, but if you have no luck, East Bay Parking Garage is a few blocks away.

Hampton Park - Upper Peninsula, Charleston

Because of the close parking lot, and cement sidewalks, Hampton Park is an ideal location for large families, and those with strollers or handicapped loved ones. It is also breathtakingly gorgeous in any of the warmer months when the flowers will be blooming. This park offers a large white gazebo on the far end, and a duck pond with a bridge close to the parking area. Throughout the park you will find a wide array of vibrant foliage, huge sweeping oak trees, and low hanging Spanish Moss.

The Sanctuary Hotel on Kiawah Island

Whether you are staying at the hotel, or somewhere else on Kiawah, the Sanctuary Hotel is a gorgeous location for a family or couple's session. There is a cute little garden area in the front of the hotel with a fountain and flowers, as well as a winding path around the back of the hotel lined with Palmetto trees, and giant Aloe plants, leading to public beach access. Walkthrough the lobby to the back lawn and you will notice landscaped brick pathways, Pink Muhly grass bushes, Palmetto trees, and a bench surrounded by seasonal blooms. In case it rains, the hotel lobby is an elegant option for some photos as well. The hotel offers free parking or valet. Please note, you must be staying on Kiawah Island to have access to this location as it is a gated community.