Top Location Spots in Columbia, SC for your next photoshoot.

Choosing the right location for your photoshoot can make all the difference in how your images turn out. Columbia has so many beautiful spots, but I’ve found a few favorites that always deliver amazing photos. Whether you’re looking for city vibes, natural scenery, or something in between, these locations give us tons of variety and unique backdrops for your session. Here are my top five go-to places for photos around Columbia!

1. Gamecock Park

I just had my first session here and it was amazing! I wouldn’t recommend it on event or game days, but any other time it’s perfect. Only the entrances closest to the parking spots are open, which I actually loved—there was hardly anyone around. That meant we could use every space and even get right in the center without fighting for a spot or editing people out later. Definitely my favorite spot in Columbia so far.

*Bonus if you love the Gamecocks and Football!!

2. The Capitol

Such a fun and versatile location for photos! You get a whole park filled with beautiful trees, flowers, charming street lamps, and benches surrounding the Capitol. Plus, the building itself gives you stunning architectural shots and even a bit of a cityscape vibe. It’s one of my go-to spots for senior sessions.

3. West Columbia Riverwalk Park

This is one of my favorites over the main Columbia Riverwalk—it’s less crowded and has so much more space to work with. The river views are stunning from this side, and if you walk far enough, you’ll even find a small open field for extra variety in your session. It’s the perfect mix of nature and scenery.

4. The Horseshoe at USC

This location has a gorgeous open field, historic buildings, and tree-lined paths with charming little entryways. I love shooting here, but fair warning—it’s always busy. That can make it tricky to get lots of clean shots without people in the background. Still, it’s a great option, especially if you’re pairing it with another location.

5. Downtown Columbia

If you’re a fan of city vibes, downtown is the place! The area is full of small businesses and storefronts that give you tons of variety in your photos. I also love using the historic buildings as backdrops—they carry so much character and blend beautifully with more modern elements. Like any city location, you’ll need to work around people and cars, but it’s worth it for the atmosphere! While I haven’t photographed a session downtown just yet, I’ve already scouted several locations that I’m excited to use.

No matter which location you choose, your photos will reflect your story in a way that feels personal and true to you. Each of these spots offers its own style and charm, so the best choice really depends on the vibe you want for your session. I’d love to help guide you in picking the perfect place that matches your personality and vision—just send me a message, and let’s start planning your shoot!