If you’ve typed “engagement session locations Virginia” or “photo locations near me” into Google more times than you’d like to admit, you are not alone.
When trying to find a location for your session, it can be hard to find what you’re looking for when Google lists so many beautiful options. An obvious choice for many couples in Central Virginia is Skyline Drive. And I get it, I love Skyline Drive too! Whether you’re coming from up near Luray and Front Royal or further south around Elkton, the mountain views along the entire drive are unbeatable. But it’s not the only option, and it’s not always the easiest one.
Barboursville Vineyards is a free, walkable, endlessly photogenic alternative near Skyline Drive and Charlottesville, and it deserves way more attention than it gets.
Why Barboursville Vineyard is a Great Choice
When I first moved to Virginia in 2020, wineries quickly became our go-to date spot for my husband (then fiancé) and I, and one of our first trips was to Barboursville. Sitting at a picnic table, taking in the wildflowers below, I remember thinking it would be such a gorgeous spot for photos. Almost a year later, we actually got back into our wedding attire during our honeymoon and returned to have photos taken all around the vineyard. So while I may be a little biased, I’ve experienced this location both as the person being photographed and as the photographer, and in more than one season!
Here are just a few of the reasons that I think it’s an excellent choice for a session, whether it be engagement, anniversary, maternity, or even a family session!
Reason #1: It’s genuinely diverse. In a single session, you can stop at the ruins of a mansion designed by Thomas Jefferson, the rows of vines, the paths amongst the wildflowers, the more Tuscan-style tasting room, and more! That kind of range in a single location matters more than people realize. You’re not sacrificing session time driving between spots since everything is a short walk away, so more of your time goes toward actually being photographed instead of sitting in the car. It also naturally invites different kinds of moments, from more adventurous shots out in the open vineyard to quieter, closer ones tucked near the ruins, without having to rely on a million different poses for variety.
Reason #2: It is beautiful, no matter the season. While spring and summer is an obvious choice with the gorgeous wildflowers in bloom and the willow tree full, the vineyards are also a stunning spot in the fall and winter. The photos below are from late November, and while the landscape is not as lush as summer, it still provides a stunning backdrop that allows the couple to send out.
Reason #3: It is free. Unlike some other popular locations, there is no fee to photograph at this location! (Not unless you want to treat yourself to some of their wonderful wine when your session is all done, which I highly recommend!)
Is Barboursville Vineyard Right for Your Session?
If you’re searching for engagement session locations in Virginia that feel timeless, are in nature but don’t require lots of hiking, and have no entrance fee, then Barboursville Vineyard deserves a real look. It’s one of my favorite locations in Central Virginia, and I’d love to help you tell your story there!
Thinking about booking a session at Barboursville Vineyard or another Central Virginia and Shenandoah Valley location? I’d love to chat about your vision and help you find the perfect spot for your photos!
