Portrait Photography Sessions
Portrait Sessions During Park Hours
Portrait photography sessions with a professional photographer during regular park operating hours are limited and must be approved in advance. Please review our current operating hours before making your request.
Availability for portrait sessions is extremely limited during holiday weekends and peak fall color season (late September through October).
MacRae Meadows may be reserved for portrait photography sessions during park hours at select times of the year.
- Reservations begin at $75 per hour
- A minimum one-hour reservation is required
- Large props are not permitted
- Vehicles are not allowed in the meadow
- Reservations do not provide exclusive access to the area
- Restrooms and building access are not available in MacRae Meadows
Portrait Sessions After Park Hours
For those seeking additional privacy or access to some of Grandfather Mountain’s most scenic locations, portrait photography sessions may be available after park hours at select times of the year.
MacRae Meadows may be reserved after hours for portrait photography, with rates starting at $75 per hour and a one-hour minimum. (See above for more info on MacRae Meadows.)
In addition, some of Grandfather Mountain’s most iconic locations may be available for after-hours portrait sessions, including:
- Half Moon Overlook
- Woods Walk
- Cobey Botanical Garden
- Cliffside Picnic Area
- Scheer Bluff
- Linville Peak
- Mile High Swinging Bridge
Reservations for these in-park locations begin at $150 per hour with a one-hour minimum. Please note:
- Large props are not permitted
- Access to buildings is not included
- All park policies must be followed
- Session end times will be established in advance and must be strictly observed
- All participants must exit the park before dark
How to Request a Session
All portrait photography requests must be submitted at least two weeks in advance by filling out the Engagement and Portrait Photography Inquiry Form.
Engagement and Portrait Photography Inquiry Form
The Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, the nonprofit organization that operates Grandfather Mountain, reserves the right to approve or decline any photography request. Availability is based on park operations, staffing and seasonal demand.
Whether you’re capturing a proposal, celebrating your engagement or creating images for save-the-dates and wedding announcements, Grandfather Mountain offers unforgettable scenery and timeless mountain memories.
Photo by Amanda Lunsford