The 3 Best Locations for Family Photography in Asheville, NC.
The Biltmore Estate offers a uniquely rich setting for family photography — combining grand architecture, sweeping gardens, and mountain vistas that feel both timeless and intimate. Whether you want formal portraits on the house terrace or candid moments among vibrant flowerbeds and greenhouses, the property’s variety lets you capture multiple looks in one session. Be mindful of the grounds rules and hours of operation, which flux with the season and with holidays. It’s worth it for local Asheville and Western NC photographers buy a year’s pass, but ensure your clients are aware of any admission costs. Click here to learn more about my family sessions!
The North Carolina Arboretum blends curated gardens, sculpted landscapes, and forested trails to offer a variety of picture-perfect settings for family photography. From formal beds to peaceful woodlands and educational exhibits, it’s a versatile, accessible location for portraits that feel polished and natural. It makes great sense for Photographers in and around Asheville North Carolina to purchase a yearly pass to the arboretum, and it’s a far more affordable option for you clients when compared to Biltmore. Click here to learn more about booking a family session!
Here are a few specific draws to the arboretum. (Also keep in mind that your dollars are going to support a fantastic organization!)
Sculptural and architectural elements: Outdoor art, stone features, and well-designed pathways add interest and framing for portraits.
Forested trails and creekside spots: Shaded, dappled-light areas create intimate, natural scenes ideal for candid family moments.
Accessible, family-friendly grounds: Well-maintained trails, easy parking, and facilities make sessions with kids and grandparents smoother.
Diverse gardens: Bonsai, quilt, pollinator, and native plant gardens provide colorful, textured backdrops
that change with the seasons.
The UNCA Botanical Gardens offer intimate, shady gardens, native plantings, and quiet woodland trails that make for relaxed, personal family photography. Its compact size and variety of micro-environments let you capture warm, nature-focused portraits without long walks or big crowds. The best part about this SMALL but mighty location is how convenient it is- just four minutes outside of downtown Asheville, NC. Click here to book a family session with Melina Coogan Photography and one more thing- no dogs are allowed at
A few more tips about the botanical gardens:
Native plant collections: Local wildflowers, native shrubs, and seasonal understory plants create authentic Western NC backdrops that celebrate place.
Quiet, shaded trails: Forested paths and fern-filled hollows provide soft, even light and a peaceful feel, great for candid family moments.
Intimate garden rooms: Small groves, stone walls, and secluded seating areas give variety and privacy for close portraits and multi-generation shots.
Educational, low-key setting: Less tourist traffic than larger venues means calmer sessions and more flexibility with kids.