The Best Nashville Spots for Golden Hour Wedding Photos

The Best Nashville Spots for Golden Hour Wedding Photos

As Morgan, owner of Heck Designs and Photography, I’ve captured over 400 weddings across Music City, and there’s nothing I love more than shooting during Nashville’s golden hour—that magical 1–2 hours before sunset when the light turns warm and dreamy. With iconic venues from urban skylines to rolling hills, the right location elevates your wedding photos to art. Whether you’re planning a grand celebration or an intimate elopement (see our elopement guide), these top Nashville spots ensure stunning golden hour wedding photos. Here are my picks for 2025, complete with permit details to keep your shoot seamless.

1. Love Circle: Skyline Romance

  • Why It’s Great: This hilltop offers 360-degree views of Nashville’s skyline, perfect for romantic silhouettes against a pink-orange sky.

  • Photo Tips: Arrive 90 minutes before sunset for varied angles. Wide shots capture the city, while close-ups focus on your connection. Coordinate outfits with our fall engagement styling tips for cohesive looks.

  • Permit Info: Required for commercial photography or groups over 25. Apply through the Metro Nashville Parks Department ($50–$100 for standard sessions, 7–10 days processing). Love Circle Info.

  • Best For: Couples wanting an urban yet intimate vibe, ideal for elopements or engagement sessions.

2. Percy Warner Park: Nature’s Glow

  • Why It’s Great: Lush forests and open fields glow during golden hour, with soft light filtering through trees, especially in fall.

  • Photo Tips: Use the stone steps or meadows for dynamic poses. Ideal for candid shots of twirling or embracing.

  • Permit Info: Required for all professional photography; Warner Parks-specific film/video fees are $200/hour (2-hour minimum). Email Cammie Claybrook at parks@nashville.gov or apply via the Metro Nashville Parks Department (10–14 days processing). Warner Parks Info.

  • Best For: Rustic, nature-loving couples seeking serene shots.

3. John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge: Iconic Cityscape

  • Why It’s Great: The bridge’s view of the Cumberland River and downtown skyline screams Nashville. Golden hour adds warmth to steel and water.

  • Photo Tips: Shoot from the bridge or riverbank for variety. Early evening avoids crowds, perfect for candids, especially post-courthouse ceremonies (see our Tennessee marriage guide).

  • Permit Info: Required for commercial shoots or groups over 20. Apply via the Metro Nashville Parks Department ($75–$200 based on session length, 7–14 days processing). Bridge Info.

  • Best For: Couples craving iconic, city-centric photos.

4. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens: Botanical Beauty

  • Why It’s Great: Manicured gardens and reflective pools shine in golden light, offering elegant, colorful backdrops.

  • Photo Tips: Focus on the Japanese Garden or Wisteria Arbor for romantic framing. Book early for peak fall colors.

  • Permit Info: Mandatory for all professional photography sessions. For non-members, one dual-household membership is included in the non-member fee of $300. Current Cheekwood members may use the discounted rate of $200. Additional fees may apply for groups over 10 or extended sessions. Apply online through Cheekwood’s website at least 14 days in advance. Cheekwood Website.

  • Best For: Classic, garden-inspired weddings or engagement sessions.

5. Arrington Vineyards: Vineyard Elegance

  • Why It’s Great: Rolling hills and grapevines create a Tuscany-like scene just 30 minutes from Nashville. Golden hour enhances the rustic charm.

  • Photo Tips: Use vineyard rows for leading lines. Sunset ceremonies here are a photographer’s dream, especially in fall.

  • Permit Info: Required for private photo sessions (fees typically $200–$500, based on group size and duration; inquire for golden hour access). Contact events@arringtonvineyards.com or apply via Arrington Vineyards’ events page 10–14 days in advance. Arrington Vineyards Website.

  • Best For: Couples wanting a destination feel without leaving Nashville.

Timing Golden Hour Right

Golden hour shifts seasonally—around 6–7 PM in summer, 4–5 PM in fall, and 3–4 PM in winter. Check exact times with your Nashville Wedding Photographer to build a timeline that maximizes this light. Overcast days can extend soft lighting, but clear skies yield the warmest tones. Work with your Nashville wedding planner (see our planner questions guide) to sync schedules and secure permits early. At Heck Designs, we plan every shoot to capture this magic.

Final Thoughts: Capture Your Golden Hour Love Story

Nashville’s golden hour transforms wedding photos into timeless keepsakes. From Love Circle’s urban vistas to Arrington’s rustic charm, these spots—paired with proper permits—ensure a seamless shoot. With 400+ weddings under our belt, Heck Designs and Photography crafts galleries that sing. Book your Nashville Wedding Photographer at www.heckdesignsandphotography.com today. What’s your dream golden hour spot? Share below!

Keywords: Nashville Wedding Photographer, golden hour wedding photos Nashville, best Nashville photo locations, Music City wedding photography

Updated September 24, 2025

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Morgan NagleLove Cirlce Nashville1 Comment