Planning Your Dream Waterfall Engagement Session

Mar 25

Dreaming of a romantic engagement session with the breathtaking backdrop of cascading waterfalls? Nashville's surrounding areas offer a plethora of stunning locations perfect for capturing your love story. But where do you start? Let's dive into some of the most picturesque waterfalls near Nashville, covering the who, what, when, where, and why of each location.

Burgess Falls

Sparta, TN (approximately 1.5 hours east of Nashville)
A series of four waterfalls, with the impressive 136-foot Burgess Falls as the main attraction.
Well-maintained trails, moderate hiking, around 1.5 miles hike to the top of the falls.
Base of Burgess Falls is only accessible via kayak. We’re down if you are!
Multiple viewing platforms, diverse scenery.
Swimming accessible only at the base of the falls.
Usually very busy on weekends.

Twin Falls

Rock Island State Park (approximately 1.5 hours east of Nashville).
A short hike featuring a set of stairs and rugged rock structures that leads you to the base of Twin Falls.
Two powerful waterfalls cascading side-by-side from the rock gorge and into the Caney Fork River.
Some areas are easy to reach, others require more challenging navigation over rocks.
Powerful water flow, rugged terrain, beautiful river views.
Entry to the water highly unadvised.

*Flancher Falls:

On Center Hill Lake in Baxter, TN(approximately 1.5 hours east of Nashville)
Intimate, secluded location.
Great rock-hounding. Full of Geodes and crystals!
Accessible only by Boat or extensive kayak trip.
Swimming encouraged.

Crafting the Perfect Engagement Session:

Timing is crucial. Your photographer should consider the sun's position and time of time day to determine how it will illuminate the falls. Personally, we prefer for the sun to be right around the horizon of the cliffs of the falls, making for the most picturesque moments.

Late spring until early fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer provides lush greenery, while winter can create a magical, icy landscape. Although, keep in mind, water levels can be tricky if there has been an abundance of rain, making it difficult to access certain spots.

Choose outfits that complement the natural surroundings and allow for movement. Flowing dresses and comfortable shoes are ideal. For wardrobe tips, check out our blog post on picking the best wardrobe for your engagement session.

Select a photographer experienced in outdoor and waterfall photography, and specifically, the fall you want to visit. With so many variables that can be involved, and ever-changing landscapes, their expertise will ensure your vision is captured beautifully.

Planning your session with attention to timing, wardrobe, and your photographer’s style will create unforgettable memories that live with you forever. As Nashville-based waterfall and adventure photographers, we can help you find that perfect spot. Let's create some magic together!