What are the best outdoor portrait session locations in Charleston WV?
Charleston, West Virginia may not be a big city, but it has plenty of great spots for outdoor portrait sessions! As professional portrait photographers who have been taking pictures in Charleston WV for many years, we’ve got the lowdown on the best spots all over this lil’ city of ours!
Whether you’re interested in some updated family photos or a Charleston WV engagement session, you’ll find all sorts of locations to serve as a perfect backdrop. We’re going to break down a number of great outdoor photo spots in this article, examining the pros and cons, best times, safety factors and parking information for each. “Where should I do my portrait session in Charleston WV?” That’s what we’re going to help you figure out!
But “what if it’s rainy during my Charleston portrait session” you say? Then we’ll be your umbrella! We’ve also got a guide to the best indoor portrait session locations in Charleston WV!
Let’s find the perfect spot in charleston for your portrait session!
The Capitol Complex
The state capitol complex is undoubtedly one of Charleston’s most popular portrait session locations. On any given day you’re likely to see families here with a photographer snapping away. It represents one of the only park-like areas within the city proper, giving kids and pets plenty of room to roam.
Pros
- Lots of variety.
- Very safe for kids and pets.
- Photographs well at nearly any time of day.
- Proximity to other locations.
Cons
- Bring bug spray.
- State legislature sessions can make parking difficult.
- Frequently undergoes construction/maintenance.
Best times of the year
This spot is great year round! If you’re looking to take advantage of the ample green space here then you’ll want to schedule your session between May and early November for the best trees.
Distractibility/safety factors
Low distractibility. There are squirrels to distract your dogs and fountains that might distract your kids. The capitol complex is very safe– since the space is so large it offers plenty of room for everyone run around in. If you opt to take photos on the Kanawha Boulevard sidewalk in front of the capitol be aware of the traffic.
Sub and surrounding areas
The California Avenue side of the capitol provides easy access to green space, just be aware that parking there is reserved during legislature sessions. Kanahwa Boulevard in front of the Capitol is a good spot for people who want dome photos, and the steps leading to the river across the street make for a good couples photo spot. The Culture Center and parking garage on the capitol grounds are solid additional spots for folks looking for more architecture and geometry in their photos.
Parking
Bring change! Metered spaces are available on most of the Capitol grounds. Depending on where you park you might be in for a walk.
Should you have your portrait session at the Charleston WV capitol complex?
If you want the best green space in Charleston and a safe location without having to travel outside the city then this is absolutely one of the best outdoor portrait session locations in Charleston WV. Thanks to the tree coverage and tall buildings you can usually find a way to get great photos here no matter the time of day. The combination of green spaces and concrete courtyard areas offer a great deal of versatility. Worried the spot will just look like the Charleston capitol in photos? No problem! You can do a whole portrait session here with a great variety of looks and never take a single photo with the gold dome! The capitol is a short drive from other great Charleston photo spots, so if you don’t want to do a whole session here it’s easy to get to another spot in 5-10 minutes!
Capitol Street/Downtown
The bustling heart of the city. If you’re planning to do a session here there’s a good chance you’ll be dealing with lots of folks either working or patronizing the local bars and restaurants. This is another extremely popular photo shoot location, especially for senior pictures and engagement sessions.
Pros
- Lots of architecture/geometry and diverse spots.
- Photographs well most of the day.
- A great backdrop in all seasons.
- Close to lots of other photo locations.
Cons
- Lots of distractions.
- High traffic from cars and people alike.
- Parking can be a pain.
- Little green space.
Best times of the year
The Capitol Street and downtown areas excel in all seasons! Since the backdrops are mostly brick and concrete you can do a session here in summer or winter and have it look exactly the same. Note that during the colder months the winds coming off the river can get brisk, so check the weather and dress appropriately!
Distractibility/safety factors
High distractibility. There are often lots of people out and about on Capitol Street, so your pets and kids will likely find a lot of external stimuli pulling their attention from the photo shoot. There are frequently events such as ArtWalk and Live on the Levee that draw even larger crowds, which can make finding spots to take photos very tricky. Be sure to check the local event calendars before you schedule a session! The main safety concern in this area is the traffic. You’re in the middle of downtown– keep a close eye on your kiddos so they don’t wander out into the street!
Sub and surrounding areas
Summer Street has a garage if you dig those moody parking garage photos, but you will get tossed out if you sit on the walls! Safety first, folks. The Kanawha Boulevard is just a few blocks over and can provide some nice trees, especially when fall foliage is in play. Slack Plaza is a beautiful new addition to the city– we love its flower wall! This spot is only good at sunset and in the evening, as it is a wide open space with no shade during the afternoon. Fife Street is right by Slack, and it’s the best alley you’ll find for photos in Charleston. If you love beer, drop into Fife Street Brewing for a taste of the best beer in the area (and it’s a great spot for a few engagement photos too)! The levee/waterfront area is also great as long as you don’t go there in the middle of the day under harsh sun!
Parking
There is plenty of parking downtown– either on the street, in a lot or in the Summers Street garage. All of them will cost you though. If you’re parking on the street or in the garage you can use the ParkMobile app to pay. Unfortunately, this area tends to be highly trafficked in afternoons and evenings, meaning that you might need to circle the block for a bit to grab a space.
Should you have your portrait session on Capitol Street or downtown Charleston?
If your aim is more urban imagery with lots of geometry then this is one of the best portrait session locations you’ll find in Charleston. There are lots of options to pop into spaces like Taylor Books or Sam’s Uptown to get couples or engagement photos a bit different from the norm. You can find bits of greenspace on the boulevard or at the park near the intersection of Lee and Capitol Streets, but the area doesn’t have a lot of natural backdrops. Luckily, you can do photos downtown and jump over to the capitol or Carriage Trail in minutes if you want a mix of both city and nature. Its versatility makes it one of the best outdoor portrait session locations in Charleston WV.
Carriage Trail
The Carriage Trail is a hot spot for folks to walk and run, often with their dogs. It’s also a very popular portrait location for photographers. It boasts some nice green space at the bottom, making it a prime spot for short photo sessions.
Pros
- Nice green space.
- Minutes from downtown.
- Small area so your kids/pets won’t run too far!
Cons
- Gets very little natural light.
- Limited variety.
- Can be crowded.
- Finding it and parking can be tough.
Best times of the year
Late April to early November. During the fall and winter months this area is very brown.
Distractibility/safety factors
Medium distractibility. This is a popular trail for runners/walkers and people walking their dogs.
Sub and surrounding areas
The old Sunrise Museum at the top of the trail is now a private business, but you can get a nice view of the city. If you’re looking to get that photo we’d recommend parking at the top near Sunrise. Walking the whole Carriage Trail isn’t generally a good use of time since the backdrops are very homogenous and the trail itself is heavily shaded by trees and gets limited light all day.
Parking
First off, the turn to find the bottom of the Carriage Trail can be tricky and if you miss it you’re likely to travel up Bridge Road a bit before you can turn around and try again. keep your eyes peeled, the turn for Carriage Trail is right below the turn up the hill to Bridge Road. The parking area itself is small, but you’ll usually find parking along the side even if all the proper spaces are full.
Should you have your portrait session at the Carriage Trail?
If you want to put some trees on it then this might be the space for your session. The bottom of the trail is honestly the best spot for photos, but it only sees light for a limited portion of the day. Given the small space of this era we think it works best as a green space location for mini sessions or other short portrait shoots. The Carriage Trail’s close proximity to the downtown area makes it easy to grab a few photos here and move on.
Coonskin Park
This beloved park is a bit out of the way but it remains a popular spot for family sessions and high school senior portraits. It’s a big area, and you’re not going to find more green space in the Charleston area than you will at Coonskin.
Pros
- Lots of trees and grass. Also a pond!
- Lots of space for kids/pets.
Cons
- Not close to other photo locations.
- Doesn’t look good in late fall/winter.
Best times of the year
As a park, its best times are from late April to early November. As you’re aware, outdoor spots in the colder months are barren and brown.
Distractibility/safety factors
Medium distractibility. There are squirrels and other park visitors here vying to steal the attention of your dog/kid. Coonskin is very safe– just make sure junior doesn’t fall in the pond or run afowl of some ducks. There’s plenty of space for kids and pets to run, just remember to be respectful of other folks in the park!
Sub and surrounding areas
It’s a big park, but it’s not really close to anything else. You’ll need to hop in the car if you want to head back to downtown or elsewhere.
Parking
There’s plenty of parking here. One of the biggest downsides to Coonskin is that it’s 15 minutes to downtown, so it’s not as convenient as other locations on this list. The old entrance is now closed (off of Greenbrier Street) and is now only accessible via the Mink Shoals exit (1) on 79.
Should you have your portrait session at Coonskin Park?
If you really want to have a portrait session in a park then this is kind of the only game in town. Coonskin is at its absolute best with blooming spring trees or peak fall foliage. There doesn’t tend to be a lot of image variety here, so it’s generally best for shorter sessions. As far as parks go, this is pretty much one of the best outdoor portrait session locations in Charleston WV.
Capitol Market
One of the coolest spots to visit in Charleston, the Capitol Market is a destination for folks looking to support local businesses. This location is frequently crowded with shoppers, and anyone wanting to have a session here should be considerate of this. Photo sessions here are not free– it costs $25 to apply for a photography day pass at the Capitol Market.
Pros
- Seasonal changes at the market make for unique backdrops.
- Close to downtown/capitol.
Cons
- Fee/application required to have a session here.
- Can be very crowded.
Best times of the year
Most of the year the Capitol Market is an appealing spot for photo sessions. Depending on when you have a session here the market can have anything from beautiful flowers and plants to pumpkins or Christmas trees.
Distractibility/safety factors
High distractibility. There are lots of different plants, fruits and other offerings from local farmers that can and will distract your kids. As this is a busy market, there might be too much going on here for a session with dogs as well.
Sub and surrounding areas
The indoor area at the market is a bit too small and crowded to do a whole photo session, but a few photos at spots like the Purple Onion or the Mea Cuppa Coffee Bar can be nice for couples.
Parking
Plenty of parking on site.
Should you have your portrait session at the Capitol Market?
If you don’t mind the fee and you can deal with crowds then this is a nice spot. The changing inventory/seasons at the Market makes for unique photos. Kids and pets might be overstimulated here, but it’s a perfect spot for a short engagement session.
Craik-Patton House
This historic Charleston location is popular for portrait sessions and small weddings. Craik-Patton House most notably features a nice garden area with hedges. Photo sessions here require a donation of $30, and photographers can also purchase annual permits for $100.
Pros
Quiet with little traffic.
Garden area provides a good natural photo location.
Cons
A permit must be purchased to have a session here.
Best times of the year
This area is best from late spring through early fall.
Distractibility/safety factors
High distractibility. There are lots of different plants, fruits and other offerings from local farmers that can and will distract your kids. As this is a busy market, there might be too much going on here for a session with dogs as well.
Sub and surrounding areas
The nearby Daniel Boone Park has a great dock area for photos by the river. The Capitol and downtown are both within 5 minutes.
Parking
Plenty of parking on site.
Should you have your portrait session here?
As long as the photographer has a permit, this is a fine outdoor portrait session spot without a bunch of noise or crowds. Ideal for families and couples.
Elk City
Elk City has been on the come up for a few years now. It doesn’t have quite the amount of different photo spots as the Capitol Street area, but it also has a lot fewer crowds to navigate during a portrait session. This area has a lot of cute storefronts that help make it one of best outdoor portrait session locations in Charleston WV.
Pros
Good architecture/geometry and public art.
Less trafficked than downtown.
Close proximity to other locations.
Cons
Not as many nooks and crannies as downtown.
Relatively small.
Best times of the year
As this is an urban environment it can be used year round for photo shoots.
Distractibility/safety factors
Moderate distractibility. You’re still in the city, so watch out for cars and other pedestrians.
Sub and surrounding areas
Elk City is just across the bridge from the Charleston Coliseum and downtown Charleston, so it’s an easy trip if you’re looking to mix up your engagement session spots.
Parking
Parking shouldn’t be an issue. There’s a good amount of street parking and the area isn’t heavily trafficked in the evening.
Should you have your portrait session in Elk City in Charleston WV?
The Elk City area definitely has its own vibe, and the myriad of public art murals in this area make for great city photo back drops. Given its smaller size relative to the Capitol Street/downtown location, this area works best for shorter sessions or as a stop during a longer shoot.
The University of Charleston
With its great view of the might Kanawha river and the gold dome of the capitol, this spot offers one of the best photo backdrops in the whole city.
Pros
If you need the capitol dome in your photos then this is your best bet.
UC takes good care of its lawn so it always looks nice!
Cons
If you’re not here for the capitol view, it’s mostly just a big lawn.
The bugs. Don’t forget the bug spray!
This is a college campus, so avoid if you don’t like college students.
Best times of the year
Good year round, but there are some spots with nice flowers and trees that look great in spring!
Distractibility/safety factors
Low distractibility. There are usually students or other people out walking, but its usually pretty quiet and the lawn is big enough to accommodate plenty of folks.
Sub and surrounding areas
UC is just a few minutes from downtown Charleston, but there aren’t really any other spots in walking distance
Parking
Plenty of lots on the UC campus to park in.
Should you have your portrait session at the University of Charleston?
If you really love the sweeping capitol dome shot then this is definitely your spot. It’s also a great fit if you just want a quiet location with some greenery to serve as a backdrop for your engagement or family photos.
Warehouse District
Not the most glamorous location on this list, but it can be a bit of a playground for the adventurous. As long as there isn’t a baseball game going on this area has little traffic and works well as a sparse urban location for high school seniors and couples looking for a bit of an edge in their photos.
Pros
- Some great geometry.
- Wide open spaces.
- Cool light.
- Good proximity to lots of other spots.
Cons
- A bit more rugged than other urban backdrops. For those who like the edgier looks.
Best times of the year
As it’s not a green space, this one is great year round.
Distractibility/safety factors
Low distractibility. There are cars, but not much else. There might be broken glass in some of these spots from time to time, so keep that in mind if you have kids/pets in your session.
Sub and surrounding areas
Just minutes from downtown and the Capitol Complex, so you can hit up the greenery at the capitol or visit Slack Plaza, Brawley Walkway or Capitol St.
Parking
Plenty of parking to be found, just don’t try to do a session down here during Dirty Birds home games. Check the schedule!
Should you have your portrait session in the Charleston WV warehouse district?
This one is for the folks who love a harder edged aesthetic in their photos. Lots of fun light, open spaces, tall buildings, and cool architecture. As long as there isn’t a baseball game going on this area has little traffic and works well as a sparse urban location for high school seniors and couples looking for a bit unique in their photos. You can easily do a whole session here, or you can pair it with another location like the Capitol or downtown. We love the edginess and geometric possiblities in this spot, so that’s why we believe it’s one of best outdoor portrait session locations in Charleston WV.
Kanawha Boulevard/Haddad Riverfront Park
If you’re looking to make the most of the Kanawha River vibes then this might be the spot for you! It can get pretty sunny and windy here depending on the day, and it sees a good amount of traffic from runners and cyclers, but you shouldn’t let that stop you from taking advantage of its beauty!
Pros
- Plenty of space to work with.
- If you really love rivers, this is your location.
- Easy access to the southside bridge for some killer bridge shots.
Cons
- It gets a fair amount of traffic from people running, walking and biking. Keep your head on a swivel so you don’t get run over!
- If it’s hot outside, this spot is absolutely cooking since that sun is going to bounce right off the river and into you. Very sweaty in the summer.
- Kids and dogs must be watched constantly as there is a river on one side and traffic on the other. It’s also loud.
Best times of the year
Spring and fall tend to be the best for the boulevard, but it’s a solid spot year round. Again there’s the caveat that this one is really hot in the summer months. As it’s on the river it’s very cold here with the wind in the winter.
Distractibility/safety factors
High distractibility. On one side there’s Kanawha Boulevard, which has a lot of car traffic. On the other side is the steep river bank and the river. There’s a ton of loud ambient sound coming from the traffic and the city. It’s not a great spot for kids and pets.
Sub and surrounding areas
Depending on where you’re at on the Boulevard you’re either right by downtown or you’re near the capitol complex.
Parking
Metered spots near the southside bridge. Plenty of metered spots, lots and garages downtown too.
Should you have your portrait session on Kanawha Boulevard or Haddad Riverfront Park?
This is a great spot for couples or engagement photo sessions, but it can be a stressful space for kids and pets. If the idea of having the river in lots of photos is exciting for you, then this is definitely one of the best outdoor portrait session locations in Charleston WV.
East End
A bonus option! The historic East End district in Charleston is a bit rougher in its aesthetic than the more highly trafficked downtown and Elk City areas, but it’s not without its charms!
Pros
- Cool geometry and murals (the Red Carpet mural!)
- Close to the capitol
- More of a rugged aesthetic if that’s your jam
Cons
- Not many other locations in walking distance
- Little in the way of green space
Best times of the year
This spot works year round!
Distractibility/safety factors
Moderate distractibility. Traffic is always a concern in urban locations so keep those pets (and kids) on a leash.
Sub and surrounding areas
It’s very close to the capitol complex, so if you’re in need of good green space we’d suggest popping over there.
Parking
Random street parking spots are available, and you can also park at the nearby capitol complex.
Should you have your portrait session on the East End of Charleston WV?
If you want more of a neighborhood vibe in your photos, this is a solid spot. It’s greatest strength is probably its relative proximity to the capitol grounds, which is one of the best greenspaces in Charleston WV.
