We know your search for the perfect place to take your portraits can be as stressful as your reception venue hunt, especially when you've got so many options available. That's why we talked to our favorite Virginia Beach-area photographers to narrow down your options. Whether you're considering a beachside vibe or want more of a traditional feel, we've got you covered -- plus what you should know before you plan a session there.
Communications Building of Regent University
"In this building Regent invested a lot of money as it houses their theatre. The imported marble floors, grand staircase, imported silk panels and chandelier make it one of those locations that screams, bride! They are however very strict inside this building and it's the only one you need permission to shoot in. I used one of the benches from the front for the couple and wanted to give them a grand image. There are so many elements you can include outside the frame of this image but I decided to stay with a classic, grand and bold elegance." –Kelly Lee, Kelly Lee Photography, KellyLeePhotography.com
Founders Inn and Spa
"What I like most about the Founders Inn and Spa in Virginia Beach is its beautiful outdoor garden. It is a remarkable backdrop with live swans, black geese and it is manicured to perfection. Also, if there's inclement weather, there's a beautiful atrium that can serve as a backup plan." –Keith Cephus, Keith Cephus Photography, Virginia Beach, KeithCephus.com
The Old Cavalier Hotel
"I love the Old Cavalier Hotel (not the New Cavalier, which was built in the seventies, and looks it) at the Virginia Beach oceanfront. It was the first big hotel in Virginia Beach and retains its gorgeous vintage glamour. It has an in-ground sprinkler system that can be unpredictable, but if the bride and groom are game it is a wonderful spot." –Eleise Theuer, Eleise Theuer Photography, Norfolk, EleiseTheuerPhotography.com
Botanical Gardens in Norfolk
"There's a beautiful rose garden that starts blooming between March and April and the garden is perfectly shaded, so from a photography standpoint, you don't have to worry about harsh shadows. It's good lighting all day long because of the trees which is a photographer's dream. The lake, bridge and Weeping Willows in the background provide lots of photo opportunities." –Keith Cephus, Keith Cephus Photography
Hilton Oceanfront in Virginia Beach
"The Hilton has this cool, hip restaurant called Catch 31. It's colorful, exciting and trendy and I think that makes for a nice backdrop. You can take the entire bridal party on top of the roof and get shots overlooking the whole city of Virginia Beach!" –Keith Cephus, Keith Cephus Photography
Oceanfront Public Parks
"I love First Landing and False Cape. They can be a lot less populated, even in the summer. If you are willing to walk a bit you can have the beach to yourself. These spots are wonderful for group photos. As far as I know there is no fee to use any of them, though the parks do have parking fees." –Eleise Theuerr, Eleise Theuer Photography
Virginia Beach
"When I photograph a wedding, I'm always looking for the unexpected. That's exactly what happened when Joyce and Treb were walking by this photo billboard at a construction site at Virginia Beach's Towne Center. When I saw it, I knew we had to stop and get a couple of shots of them goofing around and as it turned out, it's one of my favorite pictures of the year! Having fun at your wedding is so important, especially to the photographer, and with them it was really easy to have a great time and get great shots!" –Sam Hughes, Sam Hughes Photography, SamHughesPhotography.com
The Chrysler Museum
"For bridal sessions, The Chrysler Museum is fantastic. It has these great pillars, statues and it gives you this Art Deco feeling. And it's amazingly lit. You've got sun coming in from the top of the building that creates these really nice shadows, so if the bride wants something artsy, this is the place." –Keith Cephus, Keith Cephus Photography
The Freemason District
"Downtown Norfolk offers lots of choice spots for photos. The Freemason district, which dates from the 18th Century features cobblestone streets and truly lovely architecture." –Eleise Theuer, Eleise Theuer Photography
Downtown Williamsburg
"This is an ideal location for brides who going for a classy, sophisticated style. It's a historical college; everything is traditional and vintage. The great architecture and manicured lawns make for a great composition." –Keith Cephus, Keith Cephus Photography
-- Carrie Chambers