Spring Views in Charleston

Spring is a gorgeous time of the year anywhere, but it is one of the best times to visit Charleston. A city steeped in history, southern charm, and natural beauty. This story is a collection of images from my recent workshop in 2022. This workshop was focused on landscape scenes, historical sites, and beautiful spring gardens. 

Live Oak Trees

A dominant feature of Charleston is the incredible Live Oak Trees! I have enjoyed photographing these beauties for many years. During the workshop, we shoot them at several locations. My favorite spots are around the pineapple park in downtown Charleston, Charles town Landing, Middleton Place, and Hampton Park. The live oaks lose their leaves in early spring, and by late March, the new growth pops out in bright colors. The moss and variety of green leaves make for a stunning scene. I like to capture them in traditional ways and use creative camera lenses and multiple exposure techniques. 

"When I am among the trees, especially the willows and the honey locust, equally the beech, the oaks and the pines, they give off such hints of gladness. I would almost say that they save me, and daily. I am so distant from the hope of myself, in which I have goodness, and discernment, and never hurry through the world but walk slowly, and bow often. Around me the trees stir in their leaves and call out, “Stay awhile.”The light flows from their branches. And they call again, “It's simple,” they say,“and you too have come into the world to do this, to go easy, to be filled with light, and to shine.” Mary Oliver 

Historical Walks

I never grow tired of walking around the streets of Charleston. There is always something interesting to photograph from the historical churches, graveyards, gardens, homes, and the waterfront. During the workshop, we started our day with sunrise at the pineapple fountain, breakfast at a local cafe, and then strolled around the city. We took our time to explore the cobblestoned streets, the beautiful window displays of spring color, the historical churches, and interesting architecture. 

Waterfront Views

Charleston is surrounded by water! Views from the harbor, battery park, or one of the local beaches will keep you busy at sunrise and sunset. Mount Pleasant regional park has a gorgeous view of the Arthur Ravenel Jr bridge. Early sunrise at Isles of Palms Beach is worth the drive, and shooting sunset down at Battery Park. Shem Creek is another fun option to catch the fishing boats and walk along the marsh. 

Natural Landscapes

The Charleston area is home to a large variety of outdoor venues that showcase the site's natural beauty. There is so much to see and capture from plantation homes, gardens, swampland, and cypress tree groves. My favorite places are Middleton Place, Charles Town Landing, Brookgreen gardens, Hampton Park, and peeking into the private gardens of the homes in the historic area. 

Spring Blooms

Spring is full of pinks, purples, and yellow as all the flowers and trees fill the air with their sweet fragrances. You can't miss the Camellias, Dogwoods, Cherry Trees, and more! Visiting one of the many plantation homes, you will explore the history and the gardens that make this place so unique.