KATIE THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY
LOCATION GUIDE
Why Location Matters
A large part of the overall feel of your portraits is determined by your surroundings. Obviously, these photos are about YOU and your love for each other, and I want to capture that in its fullest. But having the right setting will truly elevate your photos from standard and common to stunning and WOW.
This guide includes a variety of locations in the Nashville area and beyond--all hand-selected by me.
My goal is to help you find a location perfect for your engagement photos--somewhere beautiful--somewhere that says you.
Something to keep in mind: Some locations require a fee to shoot there; don't let this automatically deter you from those places! Many times, the purpose of the fee is to cut down on the amount of people showing up to take photos. This can mean that you get exclusive access to places that not many people take photos at. It also typically means that we will have a lot more privacy and won't have to battle working around many (if any) other photographers.
NASHVILLE LOCATIONS
The Parthenon
The Parthenon is one of Nashville’s most recognizable and dramatic photo locations. This full-scale replica of the original Greek Parthenon features massive stone columns, grand staircases, and striking symmetry that create a timeless, editorial-style backdrop for portraits. Located within Centennial Park, the surrounding area offers beautiful greenery, walking paths, and open lawns that add variety to a session. With both bold architecture and natural park scenery in one spot, it’s a great location for couples looking for a mix of classic and relaxed images.
Belmont University
The Belmont University offers one of the most picturesque campus settings in Nashville for portrait sessions. Known for its stately architecture, Belmont features beautiful brick buildings, white columns, and manicured gardens that create a timeless and romantic backdrop. The historic Belmont Mansion and surrounding pathways add classic Southern charm, while tree-lined walkways and open lawns provide soft, natural settings for photos. With a mix of elegant architecture and lush greenery, Belmont is perfect for couples, engagements, seniors, or family sessions looking for a polished, refined feel.
Tennessee State Capitol
This spot has quickly become one of my favorites in Nashville! The Tennessee State Capitol is one of Nashville’s most iconic and elegant landmarks, making it a beautiful backdrop for portraits. Built in the mid-1800s with classic Greek Revival architecture, the Capitol features tall stone columns, grand staircases, and sweeping views of downtown Nashville. The surrounding grounds offer a mix of historic charm and natural elements, with mature trees, iron gates, and open lawns that photograph beautifully in both soft morning light and golden hour. It’s a great location for couples who love a timeless, architectural look in their photos.
Cheekwood Botanical Gardens
Cheekwood is one of those locations that offers SO much amazing garden scenery. If you like endless greenery, top-notch botanicals, and immaculate landscaping, this is the place for you.
Also located on the property is a beautiful historic mansion to serve as another amazing backdrop for your photos.
This place truly looks like it came straight from a fairytale storybook.
*Cheekwood Botanical Gardens requires a $450 fee to photograph here for two hours.
Photos coming soon
The Pedestrian Bridge
The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge is one of the best locations in the city for photos with a skyline view. Stretching across the Cumberland River, the bridge offers sweeping views of downtown Nashville, making it especially stunning at sunset or after dark when the city lights begin to glow. Its long walkway, steel arches, and open river views create a clean, modern backdrop that feels both iconic and relaxed. It’s a great spot for couples who want photos that capture the energy of Nashville with a classic skyline view.
Lower Broadway is also a short walk away and easily accessible from the bridge.
FRANKLIN LOCATIONS
Arrington Vineyards
Arrington Vineyards is a beautiful countryside location just outside of Franklin that offers a relaxed, romantic setting for photo sessions. Known for its rolling hills, vineyard rows, and scenic views of Middle Tennessee, Arrington provides a soft, natural backdrop that feels both elegant and laid-back. The property features open fields, rustic fencing, and sweeping sunset views that photograph beautifully during golden hour. It’s an ideal location for couples who want a warm, countryside feel in their photos.
Photos coming soon
The Harpeth Hotel
The Harpeth Hotel offers a sophisticated, upscale backdrop in the heart of historic downtown Franklin. Its timeless architecture, elegant brick exterior, and beautifully designed interiors create a polished and refined setting for portraits. Just steps away from the charming streets of downtown, the hotel provides easy access to brick sidewalks, classic storefronts, and the scenic Harpeth River nearby. It’s a perfect location for couples looking for a blend of luxury, historic charm, and walkable downtown scenery.
*The fee for the Harpeth Hotel is $250 + tax
Photos coming soon
COLUMBIA LOCATIONS
The Maury County Courthouse
The Maury County Courthouse sits in the heart of the historic square in downtown Columbia and offers a classic small-town backdrop for photo sessions. The courthouse features beautiful historic architecture with its clock tower, white columns, and stately brick exterior, creating a timeless and elegant setting for portraits. Surrounding the courthouse, the square is lined with charming storefronts, brick sidewalks, and vintage details that add character and variety to photos. It’s a great location for couples who love a historic downtown feel with plenty of texture and charm.
Magnolia Acres
This is a hidden gem of Columbia, where "southern charm meets elegance." The stately home is situated in the middle of a beautifully maintained property with an abundance of greenery and trees. The big, beautiful porch and balcony are what elegant southern home dreams are made of, not to mention the grand staircase just inside the foyer.
*Magnolia Acres requires a $150 fee for outdoor-only use, or $200 for indoor/outdoor use.
James K. Polk House
Once the residence of our 11th U.S. President, James K. Polk, this historic home is sweet, simple, and charming. The exterior of the house has a lovely porch, the perfect spot to create some romantic moments.
The garden and courtyard area around the house is a well-maintained area that is beautiful and intimate. It also has some touches of old brick walls for added variety.
Photos coming soon