Nestled on the banks of the Tennessee, and surrounded by mountains, Chattanooga has an abundance of locations that are perfect for your senior portrait session. Whether you want your senior photos taken in an urban area, or more natural senior photographs, Chattanooga has something to match the taste of every senior.
The right senior photo location doesn’t just look good—it says something. It adds meaning, mood, and memory to every shot. Senior photos should feel personal—and it all starts with where we shoot. These are the top spots in Chattanooga where your photos won’t just blend in… they’ll stand out.
Here are my top 10 locations for Chattanooga senior photo shoots:
1. Coolidge Park
- Why it’s great: Coolidge Park, located on the North Shore of Chattanooga just across the river from downtown, has wide open spaces, a beautiful historic carousel, and stunning riverfront views. The Walnut Street Bridge also provides a stunning backdrop.
- Best for: Natural, urban-riverfront, and greenery-filled senior photos.
2. Walnut Street Bridge
Note that the Walnut Street Bridge closed in March 2025 for an 18-month renovation project. It’s slated to reopen in September 2026.
- Why it’s great: Built in 1890, this pedestrian bridge is one of the longest in the world, offering sweeping views of the Tennessee River and the city skyline. The architecture itself is a great focal point
- Best for: Dramatic, scenic senior photos with iconic Chattanooga backgrounds.
Like what you’re reading? Grab the free Senior Session Planning Guide and start designing a shoot that actually reflects YOU.”
3. Bluff View Art District
- Why it’s great: With its cobblestone streets, European-style architecture, sculptures, and river views, the Bluff View Art District has a unique, artsy vibe.
- Best for: Artistic, urban, and classic senior portraits
Inspired by these locations? Book your session now to secure your preferred spot!
4. Signal Mountain
- Why it’s great: Signal Mountain offers a range of spots with beautiful, sweeping views of the valley below. McCoy Farm and Gardens, a favorite of my clients, offers a variety of settings for different portrait styles.
- Best for: Seniors looking for dramatic, adventure-style photos, and scenic mountain backgrounds.
5. Renaissance Park
- Why it’s great: Renaissance Park features large grassy hills, a pond, and is right next to Coolidge Park. It has a more natural, wild feel compared to other city parks.
- Best for: Nature-inspired, relaxed outdoor senior photographs.
6. Tennessee Riverwalk
- Why it’s great: The riverwalk stretches along the Tennessee River and offers many scenic spots, including overlooks, river views, and greenery.
- Best for: Casual, nature-oriented, and serene senior photos.
Inspired by these locations? Book your session now to secure your preferred spot!
7. Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center
- Why it’s great: With more than 300 acres of forests, gardens, and meadows, this place is perfect for nature lovers. The iconic red barn and mountain views are standout features.
- Best for: Rustic, countryside, and nature-filled portraits.
8. Chattanooga Choo Choo
- Why it’s great: The historic train station and accompanying gardens offer a unique, vintage backdrop. It’s ideal for a fun, quirky, or classic vibe.
- Best for: Urban, vintage, and historic-themed senior photos.
9. Stringer’s Ridge
- Why it’s great: This park offers trails and overlooks that provide beautiful views of the city and the river. The wooded areas create a great natural environment.
- Best for: Adventure, outdoors, and hiking-inspired senior portrait sessions.
Download our free Senior Session Planning Guide to make the most of your photoshoot.
10. Chickamauga Battlefield
- Why it’s great: This historic Civil War battlefield has open fields, rustic fences, and wooded areas. It offers both historical and natural elements.
- Best for: Historical, wide-open landscapes, and moody outdoor shots.
Inspired by these locations? Book your session now to secure your preferred spot!
Bonus Location: Anywhere That Tells Your Story
If you participate in a sport or extracurricular activity (band, theater, or a club), let’s spend part of our session taking your senior photos “on location!” Whether it’s on a field, court, pool or stage, we’ll create a photoshoot that tells your story.
Not sure which spot fits your story? Let’s plan your dream session together.
Grab the free planning guide or book a quick consult and we’ll walk through the best options for you.