The Best Spots for Family Photos in Greenville, SC — A Local Photographer's Guide

One of my favorite conversations to have with a new client is this one: "So where should we do the photos?"

There's no single right answer and honestly, the best location is always the one that feels most like your family. But since I've photographed families all over the Greenville, SC area and the broader Upstate, I've got opinions. Good ones. So let me share them.

Falls Park on the Reedy — Downtown Greenville

This one is iconic for a reason. The waterfall, the Liberty Bridge, the winding river path lined with greenery, Falls Park has a little bit of everything. It photographs beautifully in every season, and golden hour here in the fall? Absolutely magical. I recommend weekday evenings to avoid the weekend crowds, and arriving a little before sunset so we catch the very best light.

The Rock Quarry Gardens

Think pretty manicured park with the same vibe as the famous Falls Park, but with less crowds. The Rock Quarry Garden is stunning in every season and is definitely a favorite. If you’re booking a Petite Family Session with me, this is where we will do your photos.

The Botanical Gardens

This one is a hidden gem and one of my personal favorites. There are open fields, wooden bridges, and wildflower meadows depending on the season, this is the spot. It has this easy, everyday energy that looks absolutely beautiful in lifestyle family photos.

Downtown Greenville Streets

Don't sleep on Greenville's downtown. The brick walls, the café windows, the string lights peeking through trees on Main Street — there's so much texture and character here. It's a great fit for families who want something a little more editorial or urban in feel.

Your Own Home

Okay, I have to be honest with you: some of my very favorite family sessions have never left the house. The backyard in the golden hour. The kitchen while someone's making breakfast. The front porch in the late afternoon light. Your home is full of personality, and that shows up in photos in the most beautiful way. For newborn sessions especially, home is almost always my first recommendation.

Lake Hartwell

For families in the Anderson area or closer to the Georgia state line, Lake Hartwell offers wide open waterside sessions with stunning light reflecting off the water. Summer and early fall evenings here are dreamy.

A Note on Timing

Here's my honest advice: timing matters more than location. I always recommend golden hour for any outdoor session, or the morning soft light before noon if you have small children. The light is warm, soft, and flattering in a way that full midday sun simply isn't. Wherever we shoot, we'll pick a time that makes the most of it.

Not sure which location is right for your family? Let's figure it out together. I love helping families find a spot that actually feels like them. Book your Greenville family session at erinturner.co/contact. 🤍