Say 'I Do' to These Asheville Engagement Photo Locations

You've finally proposed (or said "yes!") and are digging into wedding planning—but first, take time to enjoy the moment with your partner. One way to do this is with an engagement photo session, and there are countless Asheville engagement photo locations to set the perfect scene. It's not just about embracing a moment together, though—it's also about embracing a moment with your photographer. "I always recommend engagement sessions; they allow my couples to get more comfortable with me and my camera," says Asheville wedding photographer Tia Ward of Tia Nicole Photography. "It also gives me an idea of how to direct and go about their wedding day. Then, when I see my couples on their wedding day, it feels like we already know each other." (She offers another pro tip: "If the bride has a makeup trial, engagement photos are the best time to see what it will look like on camera.") Here, Ward and another stellar Asheville wedding and engagement photographer, Sheila Nolt, share some of their favorite spots for engagement photos in Asheville, NC. Explore our list, then check out The Knot Vendor Marketplace to find a photographer in your area.

1. Biltmore

Photo: Biltmore

A historic mansion and estate set on stunning grounds and dating back to 1895, Biltmore is still family-owned and now serves as a museum, garden and spectacular wedding venue. "The Biltmore is beautiful all year, but my favorite time of year to shoot here is the fall," Nolt says. You'll have your choice of backdrops—there is an Italian Garden, a Rose Garden, a pond and, of course, the architectural interior—and there's no additional fee for photography (unless your photog is bringing more than two pieces of equipment); however, you will have to pay for admission, which ranges from $78 to $99 depending on the season.

2. Black Balsam Knob

Both Nolt and Ward recommend Black Balsam Knob for a scenic session featuring epic mountain views—without a hefty hike. "It's right off of the parkway in the Pisgah National Forest," Ward says. "I love Black Balsam because you can shoot there any time of the year. The lighting and colors look different every time I shoot there. The pine trees stay green all year round, and you can go into the forest with the pines and it gives it that moody, dreamy look." In the summer, notes Nolt, it doesn't get too hot, so you don't have to worry about sweating through your photo outfit. Since Black Balsam is a popular trail, opt for a weekday session or early morning, and make sure you check with your engagement photographer about permits if you're shooting close to the parkway.

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3. Downtown Asheville

For a more urban session, hit Downtown Asheville. "Downtown's architecture is so beautiful, and you can get a variety of images," Ward says. "I try to shoot right before the golden hour so that the buildings aren't blocking the light. If I am on top of a parking garage, I like to shoot right during golden hour and sunset." Nolt agrees. "There are plenty of options to explore the city together," she says. "Maybe pop inside a hotel and ask permission to shoot some flash photos in the lobby!" If you aren't sure where to start, hop onto the self-guided urban walking trail, which includes 30 photo-ready spots to pose for photos.

4. Asheville Botanical Garden

After an extended closure due to damage caused by Hurricane Helene, the Asheville Botanical Garden recently reopened and is as stunning a space as ever for engagement photos. "I like the botanical garden because it's convenient and beautiful," Ward says. "It's best in the springtime because things are blooming, and it's super green; there is also a creek that runs through, which gives you another background."

5. Graveyard Fields

Midway down the Blue Ridge Parkway is a lesser-known photo spot that Nolt especially loves for summertime sessions. "Graveyard Fields has a gorgeous river and waterfalls," she says. Photography is allowed, but as with anywhere, it's about respect; the Blue Ridge Parkway has a "leave no trace" policy, encouraging picnickers to pick up after themselves and those taking photos to take care of nature. "Make sure you obey signage and respect the property, and be mindful of other people enjoying the space," Nolt says. "And always check to see if you need a permit! Some parks require them even for an engagement session."

6. Open Fields

This isn't a specific place so much as a journey. Asheville is full of stunning spaces you can happen upon, so go exploring with your photographer. "Random open fields are just my favorite because you can freely run around, your outfits won't clash with anything and the lighting is always bomb," Ward says. "You may come across some wildflowers or someone's horses—you never know!" It's her favorite "location" for summer sessions. "Asheville is pretty open, and people are super nice and welcoming of photographers," she adds. "Just make sure you always are considerate of other people around you."

7. The North Carolina Arboretum

Nature abounds in Asheville, and at The North Carolina Arboretum, it is celebrated—that's why the venue is a favorite spot for Asheville engagement photos. There are 65 acres of cultivated gardens—including the Stream Garden, the Quilt Garden and a nationally recognized collection of colorful azaleas—plus open meadows, wildflowers and more. Personal portrait photography, including engagement sessions, does not require a permit; permits are only required for commercial-use photography. (See the venue's photography guidelines here).

8. Pisgah Highlands

Photo: Pisgah Highlands

For an intimate engagement session with cozy, homey vibes, book one of the super aesthetic cabins at Pisgah Highlands, nestled in the Pisgah Forest. Cabins are reserved through Airbnb, so it doesn't come for free, but the results are so worth it. There is the towering treehouse, complete with a rope bridge and an aerial loft view; the adorable A-frame, which looks beautiful when lit from within at night; and the Ridge lodge, with stunning mountain views, among others.

9. Your Favorite Restaurant

Maybe it's the spot of your first date, a coffee shop or bar you frequent in your neighborhood, or a romantic date-night spot that will give moody, candlelit vibes; whichever you gravitate toward, a restaurant engagement session can be deeply personal and intimate. (Just note: "If you want to shoot in coffee shops or bars, always check their website to make sure they allow it," Ward says.) A few ideas? Zambra was named one of the city's most romantic restaurants by Travel + Leisure; the Omni Grove Park Inn has a terrace restaurant perfect for watching the sunset; and Chestnut has cozy, historic vibes.

10. Mount Mitchell

Photo: Clayton Townsend

For an engagement session in the clouds, head to Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. It's accessible by car, so you won't need to pack the hiking boots (unless you want to head into the woods and explore the trails!), and there's an observation deck behind which mountains and big cloudy skies abound. Note that a permit is required for engagement photos (the NC Parks Department classifies paid professional photography as commercial); you can find out more about obtaining a permit here.

11. South Slope

Asheville's brewery district is known as South Slope, and it's lined with bars, breweries and restaurant spots for engagement photos, especially ideal for couples with a bent for beer. Sierra Nevada Brewery is a particular favorite. With any brewery, just be sure to call ahead and confirm any photography policies or restrictions.

12. Looking Glass Falls

A huge, 60-foot waterfall located just off the parkway, Looking Glass Falls offers a stellar natural backdrop for Asheville engagement photos without a tough hike to get there. Bonus: It's even prettier in the winter. The falls (and adjacent rock) got its name from how ice on its sides reflects light in the winter; we love this spot for winter-wedding save-the-date photos.