As we kick off another season of family photography here in the beautiful mountains of Asheville, NC. I wanted to update my list of favorite locations for family photo sessions. So many beautiful places to enjoy in this breathtaking area I get to call home!
The Biltmore Estate
The Biltmore Estate has it all… mountain views, wild flowers, tall grass, beautiful trails, flower gardens, lagoons and of course stunning architecture. Bonus points because it is located within Asheville so there is little commute time. It does require an entry ticket unless your session is after 5pm and then you can enter the Estate grounds on my pass!
Family Session on the Biltmore Estate
Children’s Portrait Session on the Biltmore Estate
Senior Session on the Biltmore Estate
Family Photo Session in the wildflowers on the Biltmore Estate
The Observatory Lookout at UNCA
Okay, this location is kind of a hidden gem. Shhhh! It gets all the bonus points for being within the city limits and located on the campus of UNCA, only requiring a 5 minute walk from the parking area, and getting almost 180 degree mountain views. Even more points for the tall grass and wild flowers.
Family Photo Session at the UNCA Lookout Observatory
Maternity Session at the UNCA Lookout Observatory
Extended Family Photo Session at the UNCA Lookout Observatory
Children’s portrait session at the UNCA Lookout Observatory
The Bald at Craggy Gardens
I LOVE shooting at the bald at Craggy Gardens. This is different from the pinnacle hike which only leads to a lookout area. This location requires a 45 minute drive from Asheville and a 10 minute hike up a kid friendly trail, but it is 100% worth the effort with the tall grass, wild flowers and mountain views.
Family Portrait session at Craggy Gardens
Family Portrait Session at Craggy Gardens
Black Balsalm Knob
This is one of the most beautiful and breathtaking places for photos in the area. It offers 365 degree mountain views, rocky balds and wildflowers. It’s about a 45 minute drive from Asheville on the Blue Ridge Parkway and requires a 15 minute hike up to the first bald with views. The elevation is so high that it can often be 10-15 degrees cooler up on Black Balsalm which is perfect in the summer and makes it a bit chillier in the fall and spring.
Child’s Portrait Session at Black Balsalm Knob
Family Photo Session at Black Balsalm Knob
Family Photo Session at Black Balsalm Knob
Family Portrait Session Black Balsalm Knob
The Never Ending Flower Farm
This beautiful flower farm is a perfect spot for family photos. It offers a variety of flowers from May through October as well as mountain views. The farm is a 20 minute drive North from downtown Asheville so it is easily accessible.
Children’s Photo Session at the Never Ending Flower Farm
Family Photo Session at the Never Ending Flower Farm
Children’s Photo Session at the Never Ending Flower Farm
The North Carolina Arboretum
The North Carolina Arboretum is a beautiful space of gardens and walking trails located just 20 minutes south of Downtown Asheville. It’s easily accessible with plenty of parking and very little walking. There is a fee of $10 – $20 per vehicle to enter the arboretum.
Extended Family Portrait Session at the NC Arboretum
Valerie Eidson is an Asheville Family Photographer with a focus on families, newborns children and high school seniors!
