Best Places to Take Professional Headshots in Charlottesville

As a UVA student in Charlottesville this semester, you might find yourself with some extra free time. Unfortunately this fall is different than any other, and with no social events to worry about and classes for the most part entirely online, this semester feels a little more open. There are countless ways to use your extra time, but one great way to get something productive (and maybe even a little fun!) done is to update your headshots. Contrary to what a lot of people think, you can actually get a great headshot without paying for a pro photographer or for a fancy camera- your iPhone will do just fine! Here are 5 spots on grounds and in the Charlottesville area that will be great backdrops to your new headshots. Just be sure to wear a mask before and after posing for your photos and stay socially distanced!

Brooks Hall

One underrated spot on grounds for me is definitely Brooks Hall behind the Rotunda, and in particular the staircase on the east side of the building is a great spot. I especially recommend checking out Brooks Hall in October because that will be about the peak of the beautiful fall leaves surrounding the building.

Darden

You may have been here for a formal or your parents may have stayed at the inn for a weekend visit at some point over the years, but this spot has a lot of photo ops to offer that you may not have thought of before. The lawn/courtyard area within the buildings is always landscaped to perfection and generally much less crowded than the lawn, so it’s a great option for your photos.

Carter Mountain

This one isn’t connected to the University, and you’ll have to make a short drive to get there, but it’s definitely worth it. Though possibly somewhat of an untraditional choice for taking headshots, I think the view looking out from Carter Mountain is one of the more beautiful spots in Charlottesville. You’ll be able to snap a picture with great lighting and a beautiful view behind you!

Glass House Winery

You may not have heard of this spot, and you’ll have to make about a 25 minute drive to get there from grounds, but it’s definitely one of the prettiest spots in the Charlottesville area. There are a TON of good photo ops here including their huge glass building filled with all kinds of beautiful plants and trees, as well as an expansive outdoor area. The very best spot in my opinion is on the small dock that sits on the large pong outside; the fall trees and the views of the beautiful Virginia countryside offer an idyllic backdrop for a great photo!

My final recommendation, you guessed it… the Lawn

I know this one is ridiculously obvious, but there’s a reason basically every UVA student takes their headshots in this iconic space. If you want to get a headshot that really stands out and looks different from your peers, I’d recommend choosing one of the four options above, but it’s undeniable that the Lawn will offer an equally professional and beautiful scene in which to get the perfect photo, so it will always be a dependable spot.

Bonus Tip: Take your pictures in the early morning! The golden light at the beginning of the day is beautiful, and plus you won’t have to worry about strangers in the back of your pictures since everywhere tends to be a lot less crowded in the morning than in the evening.