Finding the perfect location for your pet’s photography session is just as important as choosing the right photographer. Whether you're looking for a natural outdoor setting, an urban backdrop, or a peaceful environment with minimal distractions, Charlotte, NC, offers a variety of beautiful and pet-friendly locations to create timeless portraits of your pet.
Here are some of my top recommended spots for pet photography sessions in and around Charlotte.
1. Freedom Park – Beautiful Scenery but Crowded
If you're looking for a classic outdoor location with a variety of scenic backdrops, Freedom Park is a great choice. This park features:
A stone bridge
A large pond and a small river
Walkways surrounded by trees
Spacious grassy areas for natural shots
However, Freedom Park is one of the busiest parks in Charlotte, which can create distractions and limit background options for photography. Weekdays are usually best for a quieter experience, but keep in mind there will likely still be people in the background.
2. Frank Liske Park – Peaceful, Natural, and Ideal for Dogs
Located in Concord, Frank Liske Park is my top recommendation for dog photography because of its peaceful atmosphere and stunning lighting. This park offers:
A wide-open field with golden-hour lighting
A beautiful pond for scenic backgrounds
A forest of pine trees, perfect for nature-inspired portraits
One of the biggest advantages of Frank Liske Park is that it has far fewer distractions than other parks, making it ideal for dogs who are nervous or easily distracted. If your dog has good recall, there are also spots where they can safely be off-leash for more natural and playful images.
3. Camp North End – Industrial, Artistic, and Unique
For those looking for a more urban and creative setting, Camp North End in Charlotte is an incredible option. This location features:
Murals and graffiti walls for a bold, artistic look
Shipping containers and industrial buildings for modern, edgy portraits
A mix of concrete and greenery, adding contrast to the images
Camp North End is a great choice for owners who want something different than the traditional park setting. If you want fun, vibrant, and unique pet portraits, this location is a great option.
4. Romare Bearden Park – Perfect for a “Dog in the City” Vibe
If you love the energy of the city and want photos that showcase your dog in an urban setting, Romare Bearden Park in downtown Charlotte is an excellent choice. Here’s what makes this location stand out:
Stunning skyline views of Charlotte
Modern, well-maintained walkways and fountains
A lively yet charming atmosphere that adds character to your photos
Romare Bearden Park is perfect for owners who want to include their dog in a city-inspired photoshoot, making for a unique and stylish final gallery.
5. UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens – A Garden Setting for a Nature-Inspired Look
For a lush, green, and garden-like atmosphere, UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens is a fantastic choice. This location features:
Beautiful flowers, plants, and trees for a soft, natural background
Stone pathways and wooden bridges for added texture in images
A calm and quiet atmosphere, great for pets who may be shy or anxious
This is one of the best locations for owners who love a natural, organic feel to their pet portraits and want vibrant greenery and flowers to frame their photos.
Which Location is Best for Your Pet?
Choosing the right location depends on your pet’s personality, comfort level, and the type of look you want for your images. If your pet is high-energy or easily distracted, a quieter location like Frank Liske Park may be the best choice. If you’re looking for something artistic and unique, Camp North End offers bold colors and striking backdrops. For a classic nature-inspired session, Freedom Park or UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens are both great options.
If you’re unsure which location would work best, I’d be happy to help guide you based on your pet’s needs and your vision for the session!
Ready to Book a Pet Photography Session in Charlotte, NC?
If you’re looking to schedule a pet-only session, a pet & me session, or an end-of-life session, I would love to help capture these special memories for you.
Contact me today to discuss locations and book your pet photography session!