The best photo locations in Fredericksburg Virginia

Finding the best photo locations in Fredericksburg Virginia

One of the questions I get asked often as a photographer is: Where should we take our photos?

It’s a good question. The right location sets the tone for your portraits. It helps tell your family’s story, frames your moments, and gives us the kind of backdrop that feels both natural and timeless.

I have photographed all over the Fredericksburg area since starting my business in 2020. Some of them are tucked-away gems. Others are popular for historical reasons. All of them offer something special.

Today I want to share six of my favorite photo locations in Fredericksburg, Virginia, along with some pros and cons for each because no spot is one-size-fits-all, and it’s always helpful to see what works best for your family.

Chatham Manor

Address: 120 Chatham Ln, Fredericksburg, VA 22405

Chatham is my absolute favorite location in Fredericksburg. If you have known me any length of time then you would know my love for historical homes. The brick mansion, the gardens, the sweeping view of the river and downtown. It’s beautiful year-round, but it really shines in spring when the wisteria and tulips bloom.

I actually had my own family photos taken here which turned out to be more than I could have hoped for.

Pros:

• Gorgeous landscaping, especially in spring
• Historic brick, iron gates, and a view of downtown
• Ample backgrounds for a variety of shots

Cons:

• Can get crowded, especially on weekends
• Some areas are off-limits due to preservation
• This location is very popular with photographers. This means we will likely need to share space with others sessions
• Gates close at 5pm; this means all vehicles must be inside the park before then
  

Downtown Fredericksburg

There’s something special about wandering through downtown with a camera in hand. Brick sidewalks, colorful doorways, ivy-covered brick walls. Just about every block has a story to tell. It’s perfect for families who want something a little more urban and a little less traditional.

One of my favorite sessions downtown was with a family of five who’d just moved to the area. They wanted to capture “home” in a meaningful way, so we strolled through the side streets, stopped at a favorite coffee shop, and let the kids explore. The photos were full of movement, color, and little moments that felt real.

Pros:

• Unique textures and lots of character
• Great for lifestyle sessions or families with older kids
• Easy to personalize (favorite coffee shop, bookstore, etc.)

Cons:

• Requires some walking
• Street parking can be tricky
• Not ideal for toddlers who love to run (unless we bring lots of patience)
• If it’s a really nice day both foot traffic and car traffic can be heavy

Slaughters Pen Farm

Address: 11232 Tidewater Trail, Fredericksburg, VA 22408

Don’t let the name scare you! This is actually a peaceful, wide-open battlefield property managed by the National Park Service. Think tall grasses, winding paths, big skies. This is one of my go-to spots for golden hour sessions.

Pros:

• Wide open space with room to run and explore
• Gorgeous evening light
• Very quiet and peaceful

Cons:

• No bathrooms or shelter from weather

Alum Spring Park

Address: 1 Greenbrier Dr, Fredericksburg, VA 22401

If you’re up for a little adventure, Alum Springs Park is a hidden gem. It’s shaded, full of tall trees, and there’s a small creek that runs through it. I love it in the summer when the canopy of green feels almost magical. I do recommend extra clothes and shoes for little ones as this location does have water we can play in.

Pros:

• Wooded, natural, and peaceful
• Great for families who love the outdoors
• Cooler in the summer due to shade

Cons:

• Trails can be muddy or slick
• Not stroller-friendly

Old Mill Park

Address: 2410 Caroline St, Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Old Mill Park has a little bit of everything green space, a river view, a small beach area, and even a wooden bridge. It’s a great option if you want variety without traveling between spots. Again I would recommend packing extra clothes and shoes for little ones.

Pros:

• Versatile backdrops in one location
• Easily accessible
• Shady areas for midday sessions

Cons:

• Can be busy on weekends with events and picnics
• Some areas flood after heavy rain

Spotsylvania County Museum

Address: 6159 Plank Rd, Fredericksburg, VA 22407

This location is quiet, simple, and beautiful in a very classic way. It’s tucked just off Route 3, but it somehow feels a world away from the traffic. The museum itself is small, but the grounds are lovely with historic fencing, a little white house, trees that cast just the right kind of dappled light. This is another popular spot for local photographers so it can get quite busy.

Pros:

• Easy parking and access
• Very little foot traffic
• Classic, clean backdrop with charming textures

Cons:

• Smaller space, so best for smaller families or shorter sessions
• No bathrooms on-site

Best photo locations in Fredericksburg Virginia Takeaway

At the end of the day, choosing a location comes down to the vibe you want for your photos. Do you love clean, classic charm? Something more adventurous ? Or maybe a mix of downtown color and personality? There’s no wrong answer just what feels right for your family in this season.

What if you’re still not sure? I’m always happy to help you choose. Part of my job (and one of my favorite parts, honestly) is getting to know you, hearing what matters most, and finding a portrait location that feels like you.

If you’re thinking about a portrait session and want to talk through locations, let’s chat. I’d love to help you find the perfect place to tell your story.

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Hey there and thank you for stopping by! I’m Shelby, owner of Shelby McKimmie Photography, a Fredericksburg photographer specializing in young and growing families in the Fredericksburg & Northern Virginia area. I hope you enjoyed reading about the best photo location in the Fredericksburg Virginia area! If you are interested in talking with me more about booking a portrait session, let’s connect! Maybe you’re not ready to book yet, but know you want to keep me in your mind? No problem! Follow me on Instagram and let’s be friends!