Say Cheese: 10 More Locations for Great Memphis Photo Shoots
Say Cheese: 10 More Locations for Great Memphis Photo Shoots
Ed. Note: The "Say Cheese: 10 Locations For Great Memphis Photos" post from wayyy back in 2011 is one of the most popular on I Love Memphis. This month, contributor Aisling Maki comes back from exploring Instagram-worthy photo backdrops in Memphis with a full report of 10 MORE Locations For Great Memphis Photos. All photos provided by Aisling unless otherwise noted.
It's easy to take good pictures in Memphis. All you need is your camera, some friends – and this list of photogenic Memphis locations.
The Riverfront
Head Downtown to the Mississippi River, a perfect backdrop for casual or formal pics. You’ve got your choice of two bridges, city skyline, riverboats, and the most stunning sunset in Memphis.
Overton Square
With its colorful murals, arches, walkways and small garden areas, Overton Square is chockful of photo ops. My favorites are the small garden, tucked away upstairs over the courtyard, and the trippy blue-toned mural behind Robata.
Beale Street
Need a cool spot for prom or engagement pics? With its rich character, flashy lights and colorful displays, America’s most iconic street screams “take pictures!”
FedEx Forum
The exterior of the Grindhouse is a prime photo spot for sports fans. Even if you’re not into basketball -- in which case, we might have to revoke your Memphis card -- you can perch yourself atop a giant soccer ball or baseball.
Victorian Village
If you’re looking for something more elegant, this historic district features a row of Victorian mansions dating back to the late 1800s. After securing some sophisticated outdoor shots, pop into Molly Fontaine’s antique-filled Victorian lounge for some classy indoor pics, and maybe a cocktail.
Railgarten
Indecisive? Cooper-Young’s eclectic Railgarten includes a sandy volleyball beach, army trucks, a miniature theater, hammocks, and the largest tire swing in town.
Soulsville Music Mural
Memphis music lovers rejoice! This is your spot. Located on Lamar, just east of Bellevue, this colorful mural by artists Kyle Taylor and Brandon Marshall depicts several music giants, including Al Green and Johnny Cash.
Dixon Gardens
Although you’ll have to dish out the $7 admission fee for this one, the Dixon’s English gardens, with their roses, arbors and fountains, make a stunning backdrop for formal photos.
Community Gardens
From the Beltline to Orange Mound to Rhodes, Memphis is home to dozens of charming community gardens teeming with flowers, butterflies and murals. One tiny hidden gem is the Nettleton Community Orchard in the South Main Arts District, the ideal spot for sunflower lovers.
I Love Memphis Mural
Not to brag, but on any given weekend, the original ILM mural (there’s a newer one at Crosstown) is the site of hundreds of pics taken by locals and tourists alike. It’s a must for any Memphian or visitor, and while you’re there, be sure to get a shot with the Cooper-Young railway trestle art in the background.
Bonus Round: Slated to open in Fall of 2017, the Grand Carousel at the Children’s Museum of Memphis will be a fun photo opportunity for folks of all ages. The Main Street trolleys started running on April 30, offering another cool, totally Memphis background for some memorable pics.
About The Contributor
Aisling Maki is a freelance writer, editor, and public and media relations specialist with awards from The Associated Press, Society of Professional Journalists and Public Relations Society of America, as well as several awards for fiction writing. Her work has appeared in publications in more than 20 countries. You can usually find her cheering on the Grizzlies, doing outdoorsy things, or traveling with her daughter, Brídín. They live in Cooper-Young with a dog, a guinea pig and a pair of pet mice.
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