5 Wedding Photos Spots Around Chattanooga
These photo spots are less crowded, more personal, and full of charm. Whether you want forest trails, river views, or artistic corners, you’ll find something here that fits your vibe.
1. Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center
Address: 400 Garden Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37419
Why It’s Special: This spot is leafy, peaceful, and full of natural textures forest trails, flowering fields, a bamboo grove. Perfect if you want your photos to feel organic, romantic, and a little wild. Because it’s an arboretum, there are a lot of plant varieties, quiet corners, and soft lighting under trees. Ideal for spring, summer, or fall.
Notes: It requires a photography permit, which is good to keep in mind when planning ahead. Spencer Purcell Films
2. Greenway Farms (Hixson)
Address: Greenway Farms Trailhead at 5601 Sessions Ln, Hixson, TN 37343 (or other access points)
Why It’s Special: If you want things rural but not too far out, Greenway Farms is a gem. You’ll find open fields, wooded paths, creek views, and rustic bridges. It gives a relaxed, nature-driven backdrop without having to hike for hours. Great for golden hour outdoor portraits.
Notes: It’s free to use generally. There are many spots so you can pick ones that feel private. kelleyhoaglandphotography.com+1
3. Stringer’s Ridge
Address: Spears Avenue Trailhead or Old Bell Avenue Trailhead, North Chattanooga, TN
Why It’s Special: This 90+ acre wilderness park has overlooks with views of downtown Chattanooga and the Tennessee River. There are rolling hills, mature trees, some steep climbs or easier paths depending on how adventurous you want to be. For couples who like being outdoors with dramatic skyline / river views, this spot delivers.
Notes: Trails vary in difficulty, so check with your photographer about which overlook or loop you’ll use. Sunrise or sunset can be magical here.
4. Bonny Oaks Arboretum
Address: 6183 Adamson Circle, Chattanooga, TN 37416
Why It’s Special: This is a quieter arboretum in front of the Hamilton County Agriculture Center. It has well-maintained gardens, woodland settings, plus a variety of trees/shrubs (some over 100 years old). Because it’s less trafficked, you can get more private, intimate shots. The light filtering through big trees gives beautiful soft shadows and glow. Great for romantic, subtle photos.
5. Cherokee Arboretum at Audubon Acres
Address: Audubon Acres, 3050 Palmetto Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37416
Why It’s Special: For couples who love nature + serenity this one is for you. The Cherokee Arboretum is about 130 acres. There’s a one-mile walking trail through forested areas, native plantings, and interpretive signage. It’s peaceful, meaningful, and beautiful, especially in the morning or late afternoon when the light plays through the trees. Ideal for photos that feel honest, real, and calm.
Tips for Using These Spots Well
Permits & Permissions: Arboretums often require photo permits. Even if they don’t, sometimes you’ll want to check if there are fees or schedules (especially for private shoots).
Timing: Early morning or just before sunset (golden hour) usually gives the most beautiful light. Also tends to be less crowded.
Scouting: Visiting these spots ahead of time helps. You can test out where the “good light” and quieter angles are.
Outfits & Textures: In natural settings (woods, trails, fields), soft textures, earth tones, or flowy fabrics tend to photograph nicely. Think about contrast: if your surroundings are green/brown, something that stands out but doesn’t clash will pop.
Weather & Season: These spots change a lot with the seasons. Spring blooms, fall leaves, winter’s stark beauty, summer greens each gives a different mood. Plan accordingly.
Why Hidden Gems Make a Difference
There’s something powerful about stepping off the well-worn paths. Photos in hidden or lesser-known spots often feel more you they’re less about what everyone’s seen before and more about your connection, the atmosphere, and the story. When you choose a place that isn’t overdone, your photos tend to feel more genuine and memorable.