Finding the perfect location for your photoshoot can take your images from good to extraordinary. Whether you're after a serene beach, a lively urban backdrop, or a natural, rustic feel, Hampton Roads has something for everyone. Take a look at some of the top unique photography locations in Hampton Roads below to have a session you will be proud to hang on your walls!
*Bonus: If you’d like to me to help you find the best location for your style and vision, click here to book a complimentary venue discovery session with me!
For my military families, the beach at Fort Story is perfect if you want a quiet, expansive coastline. The historic lighthouse adds a unique focal point, making it a great choice for beach photoshoots with a bit of character. Its peaceful atmosphere provides an intimate setting for family sessions or senior portraits.
With its wide-open sands and relaxed atmosphere, Sandbridge Beach is perfect for those who want a quieter, more private setting. More popular with locals than tourists, fewer people on the stretches of shoreline make it easy to focus on the moment, whether you’re photographing playful family interactions, capturing a senior’s personality, or celebrating a special milestone. The mix of soft dunes and ocean views creates a calm and timeless backdrop for your session.
For a stunning blend of coastal and wooded beauty, Pleasure House Point in Virginia Beach is a top pick. The salt marshes and scenic water views create a peaceful, nature-filled backdrop for your session. It’s perfect for those who want a more natural setting without leaving the city.
Fort Story Beach
Sandbridge Beach
Pleasure House Point
Bells Mill Park is one of my top choices for photo sessions in Chesapeake. The main feature of this park is a wide grassy field. Boasting tall grasses and wildflowers in the summer, the fields allow personalities to shine, without being overpowered by a busy background. Once fall and winter begin, the grass is mowed down, but the park still features a pretty tree line and is the perfect place to get that “glow-y” sunset look.
Oak Grove is an excellent location for sessions in Chesapeake. There is a wide variety of spots that make perfect backgrounds in your photos. This is the perfect location if you aren’t quite sure what look you are going for and want to try a variety. At Oak Grove Lake Park, you will find a small field with tall grass, a small little sandy “beach” by the lake, tree lined paths, and even a small dock out onto the water. All of these features in one place means your gallery will be full of tons of different looks, without having to drive all over Chesapeake.
For a more curated look, Backyard Wildflower Patch is the way to go! Named for their flower-filled fields that bloom all summer, Backyard Wildflower Patch recently added on a sun porch for year round options. Their fields are full of beautiful florals throughout the summer. They also offer a variety of props and decorate the sun porch seasonally. There is a small rental fee to use this venue. However, it is definitely worth it if this is the look you are going for.
Fair Weather Farms offers a versatile and charming location for any session. In addition to its wide-open fields and rustic barns, the farm provides unique animal encounters, adding a playful and personal touch to your photos. The property also features a studio space and a beautifully styled farmhouse interior, offering cozy and elegant indoor options. Whether you’re enjoying the outdoor scenery, interacting with friendly animals, or taking advantage of the farmhouse’s timeless decor, this location provides a variety of backdrops for a memorable and flexible photoshoot experience. For a small rental fee, you could have the perfect rustic scene to remember forever!
Bells Mill Park
Oak Grove Lake Park
The Sun Porch
If you’re looking for a vibrant, urban backdrop, The Neon District in downtown Norfolk is a must-see. This area is full of colorful street art, neon signs, and creative murals, making it perfect for those who want an energetic, modern vibe in their photos. It’s ideal for senior portraits, creative family sessions, or anything that needs a bold, artistic touch
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For a more historic feel, The Freemason District offers narrow cobblestone streets, brick buildings, and a charming old-world atmosphere. This area is perfect for anyone seeking a sophisticated, timeless backdrop for their photos. It’s a great location for family photos, engagements, or even more formal portraits.
Neon District
Neon District
Freemason District
Kitty Hawk on the Outer Banks offers breathtaking coastal views and expansive sand dunes. The wide-open beach is perfect for anyone seeking a peaceful, secluded setting. Whether you want a sunrise shoot or an evening session, the natural beauty of OBX ensures stunning photos every time.
For a quaint, historic backdrop, Downtown Elizabeth City in North Carolina is a wonderful choice. This charming area offers cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and waterfront views. The mix of old-world architecture and natural beauty creates a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere, making it perfect for family photos, senior portraits, or intimate sessions.
Kitty Hawk Beach
Downtown Elizabeth City
With its wide range of locations, Hampton Roads offers something for everyone, whether you’re seeking the natural beauty of a beach, the quiet charm of a park, or the vibrant energy of an urban setting. From Virginia Beach to Norfolk, Chesapeake to the Outer Banks and Elizabeth City, there’s no shortage of beautiful backdrops to make your photoshoot truly memorable. As a Hampton Roads photographer, I am committed to finding the most picturesque locations to match my client's visions perfectly.
Ready to book your session at one of these incredible locations? Contact me today, and let’s pick the perfect spot to bring your vision to life!