If you’re looking for a downtown Charleston family photographer, you want someone who knows all the best Charleston photo locations. Lucky you – you found us!
You’re in good hands with our three photographers – one of whom grew up here. We’ve been photographing families in iconic Charleston locations since 2015. Experience matters in this city – knowing vantage points, best times of the day for good light, even parking tips. Additionally, we know locations that will be easiest for kids, and ones that are easiest for older generations. We have so much wisdom to share from our many years as photographers here, which will make your photos fun and easy! Also, we have kids of our own and know how to keep your children engaged and happy. They’ll be excited to come “play” with us.
The Best Downtown Charleston Photo Locations
As your downtown Charleston family photographer, we’ll likely recommend you meet us at White Point Garden (commonly called “The Battery”). White Point Garden dates back to the early 18th Century. The grounds were originally covered in oyster shells bleached white by the sun, hence the name given to the park in 1837. It’s now a picturesque, grass-covered public park shaded by a canopy of ancient oak trees. The trees make for a stunning backdrop for family portraits.
Right off White Point Garden are several beautiful streets filled with historic homes. We’ll walk along these streets together looking for pretty light and unique backdrops for your photographs. It makes for a fun adventure for families where you can combine family photos with exploring the city’s history.
The historic district is perfect for Charleston family photos. You’ll get a mix of photographs by the water, in the park, and along the old streets with their pastel-colored homes Charleston is known for.
Tips for getting the best family photos in downtown Charleston:
- What to wear: Unlike photos on the beach, we recommend dressing a little nicer for your photos downtown. With a backdrop of elegant, historic homes and brick-lined streets, you’ll be glad you elevated your style. You’ll want to find a sweet spot between super-casual and dressy. Think sundresses and button-downs, sandals and flats. Since we’ll be walking around a bit, we also want you to be comfortable.
- What to bring: If possible, bring nothing so you can be hands-free as we roam from spot to spot. However, if you feel better having stuff with you, bring one bag for the family. Include a couple of bottles of water (that you can all share) and snacks for the kids. If you need to bribe your kids (no judgment here!) maybe tuck some sweet treats in the bag as a reward. Make sure it’s a bag that can be put on the ground each time we stop.
- What to expect: A downtown Charleston family session usually lasts one hour. The best time of day to start will be early morning (7 or 8 am) or late afternoon/evening (3:30 in the Fall/Winter; 6:30 in the summer). If you’re early risers, we highly recommend morning sessions, especially in the summer, as it will be less crowded, and the morning light is just sublime.
- Where will you display the magic? These photos will bring endless joy to your home, and spark happiness in your heart every time they catch your eye as you go about your day-to-day lives. In the days leading up to your photo session with us, start thinking about in which room, on which walls, these photographs will bring your family the most joy. After your session, we will meet together in our Charleston studio to design something amazing for your home or office. We’re so excited to know these photographs will be a daily reminder to you of all the love in your life!
