Best Spring Photo Spots in Savannah

We’re so lucky to have such an early spring here in the south! From azaleas to wisteria, the natural beauty of our historic city really blooms in its vernal season.

I can’t recommend taking a photo walk enough at this time of year- the temperatures are perfect, days are getting longer, and Savannah truly glows all day. (Just don’t forget your allergy meds- so we meet again, pollen! 🤧)

Below are some of my favorite spots to shoot this time of year- whether it’s portraiture, street photography, or nature photography… there’s so much to capture this time of year!

THE OLD DAIRY FARM

A true hidden gem! This is the perfect location if you’re looking to get some “off the beaten path” shots. You’ll park at the fence and follow the path around a big loop, which will take you along the marsh and through the woods. There are some seriously stunning giant old oaks along this trail- be sure to keep an eye out for the one pictured above, tucked away off the path. If I’m remembering correctly, there should be a little boardwalk (and by little I mean just a few boards) that guides you under some trees and into a clearing…

Either way, this is a great stop if you’re headed out to Bonaventure Cemetery or if you’re a local looking to clear your head and practice some wildlife photography!

Oatland island wildlife center

If you’re out of town and planning a trip out to Tybee, I highly recommend you make a stop at Oatland for an afternoon nature walk! This is truly one of my favorite local spots- it’s not only a great place to enjoy a leisurely stroll or explore with your family, but it’s bursting with photo potential. There are plenty of amazing animals to learn about, quiet wooded paths to get lost down, and even some lovingly tended gardens! If you’re looking for blooming blossoms, definitely check out their wildflower garden behind the welcome center and giant jasmine hut near the bison!

FACtor’s walk

Have you really been to Savannah if you haven’t walked along River Street and wandered up through Factor’s Walk to Bay Street? The vegetation and lawns between Bay Street and Factor’s Walk really burst with foliage in the spring! Take a stroll down Factor’s Walk if you haven’t yet- it runs just behind River Street and is accessible via some incredibly steep steps from Bay Street. It’s stunning to see all of the billowy Spanish moss from below! And the jasmine arches near city hall are a romantic spot for some couples pics.

While visiting Factor’s Walk for the first time, we recommend doing some research on its history. While the walk and sights are beautiful, it’s important to learn the whole story of our city, rather than choosing to breeze past the more regrettable parts of it.

If you’re looking for an incredible guided tour that sheds light on the forgotten slave history of Savannah, definitely check out Footprints of Savannah Walking Tour. Would rather stroll and learn at your own pace? Give the GPS My City Black History Self-Guided Walking Tour a look!

columbia square

One of our favorite squares, Columbia Square really exudes a fairytale fantasy! The basilica paired with the sleepy moss, inviting green lawns and soothing fountain creates an atmosphere for magic to be made and captured through your lens. If you’re looking for a little street photography practice, there’s plenty of foot traffic in front of the basilica. I recommend grabbing a coffee across the street at Mirabelle and spending a morning shooting in and around this square!

If you’re lucky, you might even catch the pet giant tortoise wandering the lawns… (Yes, you read that right!)

bonaventure cemetery

Want to shoot somewhere that really embodies the spooky feel of Savannah? Definitely head over to Bonaventure Cemetery! If you’re visiting for the first time; they do have guided tours available, but you’re also free to walk around and explore at your own pace.

There’s a plethora of different trees, blooming flowers, and dreamy Spanish moss galore. I’d recommend visiting in the morning or early evening for the best light! While the entire cemetery is stunning, a few of our favorite spots include the huge trees around the American Legion Field (near Little Gracie!), the Lawton plot and St. Augustine Drive, and Greenwich Park located in neighboring Greenwich Cemetery.

Whether you’re local or visiting, I hope you have a great time exploring our little historic city and find photography potential around every corner!