Best Photo Locations Near Athens, GA
- Rachel White
- Jul 31, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: Aug 5, 2025
Best Photo Locations Near Athens, GA
Whether you’re planning engagement photos, a family session, or simply want a fresh set of headshots, the Athens area offers no shortage of beautiful backdrops that work in every season. Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of capturing portraits for couples, families, and artists throughout the region—and we’re excited to share some of our go-to spots to spark ideas for your own shoot!
From charming historic streets to quiet nature escapes, here are some of the best photoshoot locations near Athens, GA:
Ben Burton Park
Price: FREE
Ben Burton Park is a standout photoshoot spot thanks to its blend of rugged riverside scenery and peaceful wooded trails. The park’s 1.4‑mile natural‑surface trail meanders through hardwood forest before opening up to rocky banks and gentle shoals along the Middle Oconee River—a setting that offers beautiful variety for portraits or lifestyle photography.
The historic ruins of the old hydroelectric station give Ben Burton a unique character that creative photographers love. Locals have described the remaining stonework and river edge as “cool ruins” and a quietly striking backdrop that feels both timeless and textured.
Finally, with open grassy clearings, large natural boulders, shaded picnic areas, and water views, the park offers countless framing possibilities—whether you're capturing candid moments or posed elegance—the space’s relaxed, off-the-beaten-path vibe really brings sessions to life.
Josh & Caroline Couple's Photoshoot at Ben Burton Park in Athens, GA | 2019
Elle & Haley Couple's Photoshoot at Ben Burton Park in Athens, GA | 2021
Athens UGA State Botanical Gardens
Price: FREE
The State Botanical Garden of Georgia at UGA is a top-tier photoshoot destination near Athens, GA. Covering over 300 acres along the Middle Oconee River, it offers a breathtaking mix of manicured themed gardens—like the International Garden, Heritage Garden, Shade Garden, and vibrant Flower Garden—and five miles of scenic nature trails rich in native Piedmont landscapes.
Its Alice Hand Callaway Visitor Center & Conservatory features a lush tropical plant backdrop that’s ideal for all-season portraits and creative shoots.
With seasonal blooms, textured foliage, meandering paths, and charming features like the Day Chapel, the garden offers a wide palette of looks for engagement sessions, family photos, or artistic headshots!
Maria & Mitchell Engagement Photos at UGA State Botanical Gardens in Athens, GA | 2021
The Ledford Family Photos at UGA State Botanical Gardens in Athens, GA | 2025
Saguil Family Maternity Shoot at UGA State Botanical Gardens in Athens, GA | 2020
Fallon & Avery Engagement Photos at UGA State Botanical Gardens in Athens, GA | 2018
UGA North Campus Near Downtown
Price: FREE
Nestled just beyond the historic Arch, North Campus is anchored by elegant Greek Revival architecture, grand marble columns, and ivy-draped facades that exude timeless sophistication. These classic backdrops work beautifully for senior portraits, engagement sessions, or professional headshots.
Adding to its appeal, the expansive lawns and mature oak trees create a natural, serene setting that blends greenery with urban elegance. Iconic campus features like the Chapel Bell, fountains on Herty Field, and scenic walkways add layers of character and whimsy.
The location offers endless variety in just one space — from formal architectural lines to soft shaded nooks, blooming gardens, landscaped courtyards, and open grassy expanses. Whether your shoot is classic or creative, North Campus adapts seamlessly.
Locals and photographers like us highlight North Campus as one of their favorite spots in Athens—often walking from the Arch across the quad and discovering multiple frame-worthy scenes along the way.
Taken together, UGA’s North Campus combines historic charm, lush landscaping, and architectural elegance, all within easy walking distance from downtown. It's a polished, picturesque location that brings personality and polish to every type of portrait session.
Senior Photos at UGA North Campus in Athens, GA | Various Years
Genevieve & Gavin Engagement Photos at UGA North Campus in Athens, GA | 2021
Betsy & Leland Engagement Photos at UGA North Campus in Athens, GA | 2021
Fallon & Avery Engagement Photos at UGA North Campus in Athens, GA | 2018
UGA Intramural Fields
Price: FREE
This scenic university area sits just behind Lake Herrick and features wide open fields, wooded trails, and a lakeside pavilion—offering varied settings from grassy expanses to shaded paths that gracefully frame portraits, lifestyle shots, or casual sessions.
Public access is generous—visitors can use the fields freely when games aren't in session, making it a flexible spot for off-peak weekday or early evening shoots. The pavilion near Lake Herrick even provides covered seating and sometimes Wi-Fi—ideal for refreshment breaks or relaxed posing options.
While the setting is open and minimalist, that’s part of its charm: the soft natural light, reflections off the lake, and expansive sky let your subjects breathe visually. It's particularly well-suited for lifestyle or informal portrait sessions that feel relaxed, organic, and outside-the-box.
In short, UGA’s Intramural Fields offer a mix of lawns, light woodland, and water-adjacent structures with easy access and plenty of space—making it a fresh, unpolished backdrop for shoots that don’t need formal framing but still benefit from depth and atmosphere.
Betsy & Leland Engagement Photography at the Intramural Fields in Athens, GA | 2021
Arabia Mountain
Price: FREE
Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area, in between Atlanta and Athens, offers a truly unique photoshoot experience with its stunning granite outcrops, scenic trails, and rich natural diversity. The striking rock formations and textured stone surfaces create a dramatic and eye-catching backdrop, while the surrounding forests, wetlands, and meadows add soft, natural contrast. We love the area for its blend of rugged beauty and peaceful nature, plus historic quarry remnants that bring an intriguing, timeless feel to images. With accessible trails and plenty of varied spots, Arabia Mountain is perfect for creative outdoor sessions that want a mix of bold and serene vibes!
Zach & Alyssa Engagement Photography at Arabia Mountain in Lithonia, GA | 2022
Anna Beth & William Engagement Photography at Arabia Mountain in Lithonia, GA | 2020
Chateau Elan
Price: $0-$500, client must contact venue at least one week prior
Château Élan Winery & Resort in Braselton, Georgia, offers a luxurious and romantic setting for photoshoots, making it a sought-after location for engagements, proposals, and styled sessions. The estate boasts over 3,500 acres of meticulously landscaped grounds, including elegant vineyards, a grand château-style building, and beautifully manicured gardens. These features provide a variety of stunning backdrops, from rustic vineyard rows to classic French architecture, ideal for capturing timeless and sophisticated images.
Bethany & Zack Engagement Photography at Chateau Elan in Braselton, GA | 2022
AJ & Neela Surprise Engagement Photography at Chateau Elan in Braselton, GA | 2023
UGA Stanford Football Stadium
Price: Free
Sanford Stadium (Dooley Field) is a legendary spot in Athens and a dream backdrop for UGA fans. With its iconic hedges, brick architecture, and sheer scale, it brings a bold, spirited energy to senior sessions, graduation portraits, and game-day-inspired shoots. While the stadium itself is usually closed to the public outside of events, the exterior areas—like the main gates, surrounding walkways, and UGA landmarks nearby—are accessible and offer plenty of school pride without needing special access.
Keep in mind: professional shoots inside the stadium / on the field are not generally permitted without approval from the UGA Athletic Association, and camera restrictions apply on game days. For casual sessions around the perimeter, though, you’ll find no shortage of striking red-and-black backdrops that celebrate Athens’ college town heart.
Amber Senior Photography at UGA Stanford Football Stadium in Athens, GA | 2020
Kevin & Victoria Photography at UGA Stanford Football Stadium in Athens, GA | 2020
Let’s Make It Yours
We believe the best photoshoot spots are the ones that feel like you. Whether you're into wild gardens, rustic charm, or peaceful forest paths, there’s something around Athens, GA that matches your energy. At Papillon Visuals, we're here to help you discover the perfect setting—and to create images that feel personal and true, no matter where we are.
Have a favorite location that’s not listed here? We’d love to hear about it. We’re always excited to explore new places and find the perfect backdrop for your story.
Contact us:
IG -- @papillon.visuals
404.702.5773
Best Photo Locations Near Athens, GA
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