Kendal Mariee Photography

Choosing the perfect location for your senior photos is just as important as picking the right outfit or time of day. A great backdrop can make your photos pop and truly reflect your personality. Luckily, the Charlotte area is full of gorgeous spots that work perfectly for seniors. Here are some of my favorite locations:

a girl walking towards the camera with a senior gown and cap in her hands. she is walking on a beach area next to a lake.

1. UNCC Botanical Gardens

This hidden gem is full of lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and peaceful walking paths. While it doesn’t have open fields, the gardens offer a variety of beautiful nooks and dense foliage that make for natural, timeless portraits. Bonus: the gardens are always green, no matter the season!

A girl wearing a floor length pink dress in a pretty green garden.

2. Jetton Park

Located on Lake Norman, Jetton Park has waterfront views, walking trails, and plenty of open space. The golden light over the water during sunset is especially magical, creating dreamy, warm portraits.

A girl looking over her shoulder while she stands ankle deep in the lake with a hot pink floor length dress on. the sunset is beaming over her shoulder

3. Blue Hill Garden

Blue Hill Garden is a private flower field that’s open only during select seasons and does require a booking fee, but it’s so worth it! The colorful blooms and charming garden spots make it a magical backdrop for senior photos. I love shooting here because every session feels unique, and the flowers add such a fun, whimsical touch to your portraits.

A girl looking over her shoulder in a field full of read flowers. she is wearing a white thigh length dress and holding a pendant banner in her hand that says NC State Wolfpack.

4. Davidson College & Downtown Davidson

Davidson College offers historic architecture and green spaces, while downtown Davidson adds quaint streets and boutique charm. Together, they create a mix of classic and lifestyle shots, perfect for seniors who want variety in their session.

A girl with an ankle length white dress on standing and smiling along a path next to a big tree that arches over the path. the area is lushes and green with a columned building off to the side.

5. Marshall Park

Marshall Park is a cozy, intimate spot right in the heart of Charlotte. Its urban backdrop is stunning, making it perfect for seniors who want a city vibe in their photos. I love this location for mini sessions or an hour-long shoot—it’s relaxed, charming, and gives a great peek at Charlotte’s skyline and streets. Bonus: it’s right next to the Charlotte courthouse, which adds an elegant touch if you’re interested in a longer session.

a family of three all holding hands in formal wearing looking at eachother. the backdrop is the charlotte city skyline — Haven’t taken a senior’s photos here, but I am excited to this fall!

6. Camp North End

For a more urban, artsy feel, Camp North End is perfect. With industrial backgrounds, colorful murals, and unique textures, it’s a great choice for seniors looking for modern, edgy portraits.

a girl in an urban area with painted walls and a big brick building. the girl is wearing a dusty blue prom dress sitting on the edge of concrete looking off into the distance.

Charlotte and the surrounding areas have so many incredible spots for senior photos, and these locations are just a few of my favorites. Each one offers a unique vibe, giving seniors a variety of options to match their personality and style.

Ready to book your senior session? Contact me today to plan your perfect photo experience!

Best Locations in and Around Charlotte for Senior Photos