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If you’re having trouble picking out a photo session location, I’m here to help! Earlier this week I shared some of my favorite nature locations for photo sessions. Today, I’m sharing my favorite mountain photoshoot locations in the upstate of SC! I love it when my couples pick locations that are special or sentimental to them. I often get to shoot somewhere new when that happens! But I do have some tried and true locations that I LOVE photographing and suggesting to my clients when they need some help!
Nothing is quite as romantic as heading to the top of a mountain with the love of your life. The expansive views take your breath away. Plus, the cooler air makes you want to hold each other closer! These mountaintop locations are not just for adventurous couples! Most of these locations don’t require a hike at all! The trails are easily marked, and they are easily accessible by car, and they are easily found on GPS navigators! Some of my favorite photo sessions ever have been at some of the below locations. If you want a photo session you’ll never forget, check out these locations!
Mountain Photoshoot Locations
Sassafras Mountain in Rocky Bottom, SC
Sassafras is the tallest mountain in South Carolina, and it’s just under an hour drive from Greenville! The paved road goes directly to the top, and the walk from the parking lot to the view is not far at all! My favorite part about this location is that there are some gorgeous woods right beside the parking lot! I love stopping here first for photographs and then heading up to the summit. We get the best sunsets here!! Check out these blog posts for more photos!
- http://christijohnsoncreative.com/samandsusieengaged/
- http://christijohnsoncreative.com/emilyandmattengaged/
Bald Rock in Cleveland, SC
Tried and true, and only 40 minutes from Greenville, Bald Rock is the closest and most easily accessible mountaintop location! Sunrise shoots here are out of this world! The view faces east where the sun rises! If you want stunning views but not too much of a drive, this is the location for you! Sadly, graffiti covers the rock face. If we shoot here, you can request to have some of the markings toned down in color! Some couples like the fun vibe it gives the photos, but others prefer to have it toned down. The woods at this location are perfect at sunset! View some blog posts below!
- Sunrise shoot: http://christijohnsoncreative.com/bald-rock-couple-session-jon-eve/
- Sunset shoot: http://christijohnsoncreative.com/meaganbridals/
Max Patch Mountain in Madison, NC
Without a doubt, Max Patch is my most favorite mountain location of all! It is part of the Appalachian Trail, and the views are so expansive and magnificent. The grassy mountaintop is unique, and the woods at the trailhead are magical. Max Patch is right at the North Carolina and Tennessee border and is about 2.5 hours away from Greenville. It’s definitely the furthest location of my top 3, but it’s absolutely worth it. If you’re up for the drive and adventure, your bravery will be rewarded!
- Foggy Max Patch Shoot: http://christijohnsoncreative.com/max-patch-foggy-engagement/
- Engagement Shoot from Erin Morrison Photography: http://erinmorrisonphotography.com/max-patch-engagement-photos/
Further Destinations…
For more mountaintop inspiration, check out these locations that require short hikes!
- Black Balsam Knob in NC from Jon Stegenga: http://jonstegengamedia.squarespace.com/blog/2016/10/17/engagement-session-black-balsam-knob
- Craggy Gardens on the Blue Ridge Parkway in NC from Jamey Kay: http://www.jameykayandarli
e.com/blog/craggy-gardens-pinn acle-elopement-photographers
