There are so many great spots for photos in the Raleigh area. We are lucky to live in a beautiful area with a lot of opportunity for backdrops during photo sessions! I have personally lived here since late 2019. I haven’t had the opportunity to photograph in as many spots as I’d like because of the Covid-19 pandemic, so I will add to this list as I gain experience with even more spots. However, I have found some that quickly became favorites. In this post, I will outline my top 5 best photography locations in the Raleigh area! Check out the blog posts below each spot to see some sessions that I have done in the locations.
1. NCMA Park
If you have ever been to the grounds at the North Carolina Museum of Art (Ann and Jim Goodnight Park) near sunset, you have probably seen dozens of photographers out doing photo sessions. That is because it is a gorgeous area with a lot of opportunity for variety. If you are looking for a field-like setting with tall grass, this is definitely the go-to spot!
Pros: Beautiful light at sunset, a lot of variety, tall grass, paths, weeping willow
Cons: Crowded with photographers, a lot of walking and hills, parking can be tough at peak hours/seasons
Best time of the year for photos: April – early February
2. Lake Crabtree
Lake Crabtree County Park is located in Morrisville. The sun sets over the water, so the sunset colors can be really nice. There is also a small beach area and woods, so you can get a good amount of variety during your session here.
Pros: Beautiful sunset, variety, paths, woods, water, small beach
Cons: The ground can be soggy in late Fall/Winter with recent rainfall
Best time of the year for photos here: All year
3. Raleigh Rose Garden
The Raleigh Rose Garden is a pretty gem near Downtown Raleigh. When the roses start blooming there is a burst of color, and there are a lot of different types of plants and trees in the surrounding areas. There are also stone steps, walls, and a very nice stone arbor.
Pros: Great stone architecture, a lot of greenery, compact area without much walking
Cons: Can be crowded with visitors and other activities going on in the park, street parking
Best time of the year for photos here: Late April – November
4. Oakview County Park
Historic Oakview County Park is actually an old farm and historic homestead. There are a lot of brick pathways, mature trees, a small field area, fences, a small garden, and white clapboard buildings. If you like mature shade trees and a county look, this is a great spot for you. The light is also beautiful in this location in the evenings.
Pros: Small, flat area without much walking, lots of architectural as well as natural areas
Cons: There are a limited number of photo permits for this spot (required by Wake County), which means that it may not be available at the time of your session.
Best time of the year for photos here: This location can work all year
5. North Cary Park
North Cary Park is a beautiful area with trees, bridges, and a creek. I prefer the light in the morning at this location, so if you are a morning person, this may be a great spot for you! For Autumn, the foliage in this park is fantastic.
Pros: Gorgeous Fall foliage, bridges, paths, beautiful morning light
Cons: A playground in sight (can be distracting for very young children)
Best time of the year for photos here: November-December (when the leaves have changed)
Laura Karoline Photography is a baby, maternity, and family photographer in Raleigh, NC. Serving Cary, Raleigh, Durham, Holly Springs, Apex, and surrounding areas. Do you want to schedule an outdoor photoshoot in one of my favorite 5 best photography locations in Raleigh? Contact Laura today to inquire about availability!
