We’ve already shared some of our favorite spots in Virginia Beach (whoot whoot!). Today we’ve got the top 10 places to take pictures in Norfolk.

It used to be that I almost never went down to Norfolk.

(let’s be real – Norfolk can be sketch sometimes!)

But in the last few years, I’ve found myself going there more and more often.

At this point, I’m usually in Norfolk a few times a week because it has so much to offer!

And today, I can’t wait to share with you some of my favorite places downtown.

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Norfolk Street Art Mural

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Top 10 Places to Take Pictures in Norfolk

1) The Neon District

Whether you’re doing family portraits, a romantic engagement shoot, or rocking out a bridal session – this place is AWESOME!

Hands down, one of my favorite locations to do a fun, unique session.

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romantic Virginia wedding photographer

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2) The Japanese Pagoda

If you want an oriental feel to your portraits, the pagoda garden is perfect!

This location holds a special place in my heart, because it’s where my handsome hubby proposed to me (eeek!). Plus we did our first “official” family photos here as well!

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Marine couple engagement session

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3) Grain – Hilton On the Main

As far as cool indoor locations go, this is one of the best!

An engagement session done at this rooftop bar is super classy (and hey, beer!).

Plus the hotel itself is stunning, and lends itself nicely to any kind of portraits – even a bridal session!

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Grain Norfolk Engagement session

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4) Norfolk Botanical Gardens

I’ll be honest, there is an additional fee to do your session at the gardens – but oh so worth it!

We’ve done weddings at the gardens, a beautiful bridal session, and fun engagement photos.

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Romantic Wedding Photo

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5) Historic Freemason District

This place is another favorite of mine! Cobblestone streets and historic charm

Whether you’re planning beautiful family portraits, or a classy engagement session – this is the perfect spot!

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family photo shoot in Norfolk military couples photo shoot

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6) Slover Library

Book lovers unite!

The renovated library is an amazing place to do engagement photos. With a bunch of nooks and crannies to cuddle in, plus snuggling among the bookstacks – it’s such a cool space!

Plus it’s in the heart of downtown, so you have all the city scene to take advantage of!

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Slover Library in Downtown Norfolk

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7) Ocean View

Okay, before you totally dismiss me for suggesting Ocean View, just take a look at this engagement session.

With wind-blown live oaks and the beach a few steps away, this is an amazing spot for different looks. Definitely one of my new favorites!

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Norfolk Engagement Photographer

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8) O’Connor Brewery (or any local brewery)

Local brews are becoming more and more popular, so why not grab a pint at your favorite local place while we take pictures?!

There are lots of different places to visit, what’s your favorite local label?

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romantic urban engagement shoot O'connors brewing company

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9) Waterside District

After going through a MASSIVE overhaul, Waterside is a hoppin space! This could be cool for a family session by the water, or an engagement session playing some of the outdoor games (bocce ball here we come!)

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military couples in love

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10) Mermaid Winery

There are two locations, but the one in Norfolk boasts a cute tasting room as well as event space – perfect for an engagement session!

If you want to sip on a glass of wine together, there’s plenty of room for that too!

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wine tasting snuggles

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Bonus Location

Chrysler Museum of Art

Hands down, one of my favorite romantic wedding venues in the area!

It’s perfect for the art lover, and makes for such a dramatic portrait session.

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new Mr and Mrs Chrysler Museum Bridal Portraits

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Love What You See? Want to Have Your Own Session?!

If you’ve finished looking at our top top 10 places to take pictures in Norfolk and are thinking – I wanna do something like that! Awesome!!! We would LOVE to create a custom portrait session for you and the ones you love! Feel free to message me by hitting the { CONTACT ME } button or by giving me a call at 757-749-5350. I can’t wait to create some magic for you!

Check Out Some of Our Recent Sessions Below!