As an Asheville food photographer, I absolutely love capturing stunning dishes, but what equally excites me is capturing the talented individuals behind the food.  Asheville’s vibrant food scene is full of chefs, servers, and restaurant owners who bring passion, creativity, and skill to the table. It’s these individuals who truly shape the dining experience.

In recent months, I’ve had the pleasure of photographing many faces from Asheville’s restaurant community. Through portrait photography, I aim to tell a story with each frame. These portraits help restaurants connect with customers on a deeper level by humanizing the brand and showcasing the personalities and passion that make each place unique. It’s about highlighting the creative minds behind the dishes and adding authenticity to the restaurant’s identity.

Whether you run an established eatery or a new culinary venture, professional portraits can help you stand out in Asheville’s competitive food scene. They create a meaningful connection with your audience that goes beyond the menu—inviting customers into the heart of your business.

If you’re a small business owner, chef, or part of a culinary team, I’d love to work with you. As an experienced Asheville portrait photographer, I’m here to help you share your story.

Thinking about coming to Asheville, North Carolina to pop the big question? Sure, maybe I’m biased as an Asheville photographer, but if you ask me, you couldn’t pick a better place. Truly.

Asheville is filled with breathtaking scenery, diverse landscapes, and charming city spots, making it an ideal location for proposal photos–and to spend a weekend celebrating. Whether you envision a mountaintop sunset, a romantic hike through the woods, or an architectural gem as part of your proposal story, let me tell you, Asheville has all those options and more.

Let’s dive into some factors to consider when planning a proposing in Asheville and how to make the most of your special moment.

1. Stunning Mountain Views for a Dramatic Backdrop

Asheville is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering panoramic views that create a breathtaking setting for a proposal. Some of the best spots include:

• The Blue Ridge Parkway – Iconic overlooks like Craggy Gardens and Black Balsam Knob provide sweeping vistas.
  
• Max Patch – A romantic, open-field mountaintop with 360-degree views.
  
• Craggy Gardens – Perfect for adventurous couples seeking an epic sunrise or sunset proposal.
  

A scenic mountain proposal not only creates an unforgettable experience but also ensures your engagement photos look absolutely magical.

2. Timeless Romance at The Biltmore Estate

If you’re looking for a proposal location that combines historic charm, stunning architecture, and a timeless backdrop, Biltmore Estate is hard to beat. Beyond its grand château-style mansion, the estate boasts lush gardens, tranquil lagoons, and even some mountain views, offering countless picture-perfect spots to make your moment unforgettable. It’s also an ideal spot for a seamless, surprise proposal, especially if you’re visiting from out of town. Many consider exploring Biltmore a must-do on any Asheville getaway, making it an easy spot for incorporating the big moment naturally into your trip—without raising any suspicions.

3. Romantic Vineyard Proposals

For couples who love wine and rolling vineyard landscapes, Asheville’s surrounding area is filled with winery options. Many offer mountain views and quiet spots for a romantic atmospheres.

Some Top Vineyard Proposal Spots:

• Stone Ashe Vineyard – Nestled in the foothills, this vineyard boasts rolling vine-covered hills, distant mountain views, and plenty of open, outdoor space.
• Overmountain Vineyards – A family-owned winery with a charming ambiance, featuring sprawling vineyards and cozy seating areas.
  
• Addison Farms Vineyard – This vineyard offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, an intimate tasting room, and a serene escape from the crowds.

4. Four-Season Beauty: The Perfect Proposal Anytime of Year

One factor to consider is what time of year you’re thinking about visiting. Each season brings its own unique charm, offering a variety of options depending on the experience you want to create. Here’s what to consider:

• Spring – Vibrant blooms, lush greenery, and mild temperatures make spring a picture-perfect time for a proposal. However, popular spots like the Biltmore Gardens and Blue Ridge Parkway can get crowded, so consider a sunrise or weekday proposal for a more intimate moment.
  
• Summer – Warm weather and long daylight hours make summer ideal for mountaintop proposals at higher elevations, like Max Patch or Craggy Gardens. Be prepared for occasional afternoon showers—common in the region but usually brief.
  
• Fall – Asheville’s world-famous fall foliage creates a breathtaking backdrop with fiery shades of red, orange, and gold. This is one of the busiest seasons, so plan ahead for parking and consider more secluded spots to avoid crowds.
  
• Winter – Snowy mountains and cozy cabin settings make winter a magical and intimate time for a proposal. Just be mindful of possible road closures, which are common at higher elevations. 

Capture the Memories of Your Proposal by Hiring an Asheville Photographer

A proposal is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and when you’re investing in a getaway location as special as Asheville, it’s worth having a professional capture those memories. From the initial consultation to the final photos, I’ll work with you to select the perfect location, understand the vibe you envision, and ensure that every detail of your proposal is beautifully documented. You’ll receive a gallery filled with authentic, unforgettable moments that reflect the magic of your proposal story.

Ready to begin planning? Let’s connect and start mapping it out together!

If you own a restaurant in Asheville, you already know how competitive the food scene is. With so many eateries, breweries, food trucks, and cafés, standing out isn’t just about having amazing food—it’s also about how you present it. And in a world where people scroll through Instagram before deciding where to eat, professional food photography can make all the difference.

First Impressions Matter (Especially Online!)

Think about the last time you checked out a new restaurant. Did you Google it? Scroll through social media? Chances are, you browsed through at least a few photos before even reading a single review. High-quality images don’t just make your food look delicious—they create an emotional connection that makes people want to experience it for themselves.

Why DIY Phone Photos Aren’t Enough

Sure, phone cameras have come a long way, and there’s definitely a time and place for quick social media snapshots. But there’s a big difference between a well-lit, professionally styled dish and a dimly lit phone shot taken in a rush. A professional food photographer knows how to:

• Use natural lighting and commercial lighting to highlight textures and colors
• Style dishes to make them look fresh and inviting
• Capture the ambiance of your restaurant, not just the food
• Edit photos to enhance details without making them look artificial

Better Photos = More Engagement & Bookings

Social media is one of the most powerful marketing tools for restaurants, and high-quality images get more engagement—more likes, shares, and, most importantly, more people walking through your doors. Here are a few places my clients typically use their photos:

• Instagram & Facebook – Beautiful food photos stop the scroll and get people excited to visit.
• Google & Yelp – Eye-catching images help boost your search ranking and attract more customers.
• Website & Menu – Clear, well-lit photos help customers feel confident in what they’re ordering.

Telling Your Brand’s Story Through Photography

Asheville’s food scene is all about creativity, community, and really delicious food. Whether you’re a farm-to-table dinner spot, a bustling brewery, or a cozy neighborhood staple, your food photography should reflect the heart of your brand.

A great food photographer doesn’t just take pictures—they help tell your story. Do you want to showcase your locally sourced ingredients? Highlight the artistry of your plating? Capture the cozy, welcoming vibe of your space? These are all things that thoughtful photography can bring to life.

Investing in Food Photography Pays Off

At the end of the day, professional food photography is an investment—one that can help drive more traffic, increase reservations, and build a stronger brand presence in Asheville’s thriving restaurant scene. When your food looks as good as it tastes, people will take notice.

Thinking about taking that next step? Set up a discovery call today. I’d love to chat!

Help! What should I wear to my engagement session?

If you’re planning engagement photos in Asheville and feeling stressed about choosing the perfect outfit, don’t worry—let’s go over a few tips to help make the decision a little easier.

Dress for Comfort and Confidence

Above all, wear what makes you feel your best. The most stunning photos come from moments when you’re comfortable, confident, and authentically yourself. Whether you’re wandering through the artsy corners of town, strolling the urban streets of downtown Asheville, or trekking through a sun-dappled forest, your outfit should allow you to move freely and naturally. Feeling restricted by tight fabrics or uncomfortable shoes will be noticeable in your photos—especially if hiking is involved, but honestly, it’s solid advice for any setting.

If you love the way a dress flows in the wind, go for that. If a laid-back, casual vibe feels more like you, that’s just as perfect. Engagement photos are all about capturing who you are as a couple, and when you feel good, that confidence and joy shine through in every shot.

Consider Neutral Tones and Timeless Pieces

Asheville’s landscape is breathtaking on its own—lush greenery, sweeping mountain views, and if you’re lucky, some wildflowers or fall foliage, too. Your outfits shouldn’t compete with these stunning backdrops but rather enhance them. Neutral and earthy tones are your best friend here. Think soft shades of cream, beige, taupe, olive, muted browns, and warm whites. If you prefer color, consider opting for pastels, like a dusty, light blue, versus, say, a vibrant red. Softer colors almost always make for a better edit.

Less is More: Avoid Overwhelming Patterns

While bold florals or quirky graphic tees might be fun, engagement photos are about capturing the essence of your connection—not distracting patterns. Bright colors, busy prints, or noticeable logos can easily dominate a shot, pulling attention away from the real focus—you and your partner.

Instead, opt for solid colors or subtle textures that complement rather than compete. A flowy blouse, a cozy sweater, or a classic button-down in soft, muted tones can highlight your personalities without overpowering the moment. The goal is for your love to take center stage.

Accessories Can Be Fun

A wide-brimmed hat, vintage jewelry, or a pair of stylish, light-lensed sunglasses can add character and movement, making your images feel more dynamic and you. You may even consider incorporating meaningful items that reflect your relationship—a well-loved poetry book, a classic film camera, or something tied to a shared hobby. These little details not only enhance your photos visually but also create moments that feel authentic and personal.

Coordinate Your Outfit 

Coordinating your outfits with subtle matching elements creates a cohesive look without feeling overly staged. Instead of wearing identical colors or matching outfits, opt for complementary shades and tones that blend naturally. For example, if one of you wears soft olive green, the other might choose warm neutrals like beige or muted brown. Consider coordinating styles as well—if one person is dressed casually in a flowy dress or relaxed button-down, the other can mirror that vibe with a similarly laid-back outfit.

Don’t Overthink It: Your Connection Matters More Than Your Outfit

Remember, your engagement photos are a reflection of your journey together. At the end of the day, it’s not about the clothes—it’s about the moments captured, the emotions you share, the candid laughs and kisses, and the magic of being together in a place like Asheville.

Embrace simplicity, stay true to yourself, and let your connection be the star of the show.

Welcoming a newborn into your family is one of life’s most precious moments. As parents, you want to remember every tiny detail—from their delicate fingers to their first sleepy smiles. One of the best ways to capture these fleeting memories is with an in-home newborn photography session.

For this particular newborn photography session, I chatted with the couple about their vision to capture their little one in a way that embraced the holiday season. They all dressed up in holiday pajamas (so cute!), and we took some family photos around the fireplace and in front of their Christmas tree. We also used the natural light within their bedroom and nursery spaces to create some softer, natural scenes. It was an absolute joy to share in these first moments of the little guy’s life and to help preserve these early memories. I am so thrilled for them as they begin this special journey!

Are you considering an in-home session for your own family? Here are a few reasons I love these types of session. 

Reasons to Consider Scheduling Your Family Photography Session at Home

Want to Book an In-Home Family Photography Session?

As an Asheville photographer, family photography sessions are some of my favorites. No matter what “family” looks like for you, I truly believe those connections are one of the most beautiful parts of life, and it’s an honor to be there and capture your love. 

With an in-home session, I’ll direct you into a fun poses, as well as guide you into activities (think pillow fights and jumping on the bed!). Much of my time is also spent capturing candids and the moments naturally unfolding.

Want to learn more? Let’s connect. Set up a discovery call today!

Sarah & Brent’s Winter Engagement Session at Jump Off Rock

Winter couples photography sessions are always a vibe, filled with soft blue tones, dappled afternoon light, and on the right occasion, a dusting of snow. There’s often a peacefulness to these sessions, too, as the winter chill blankets the Blue Ridge Mountains and keeps many visitors at home.

For this engagement session, I spoke with Sarah beforehand to explore location options. She shared that she and her partner, Brent, were eager to celebrate their love against a stunning mountain backdrop and were more than willing to embrace the crisp winter air to make it happen. After considering a few options, we decided on Jump Off Rock in Hendersonville, NC—a scenic spot just a 40-minute drive from Asheville.

The spot is an great choice for winter sessions. Its convenient proximity to Asheville makes it easily accessible, and the bare trees of the season unveil beautiful mountain views. Best of all, you can enjoy the vistas without the need for a lengthy, chilly hike.

That being said, Jump Off Rock sits at an elevation of 3,100 feet, where the wind can create a noticeable chill. For this engagement shoot, we were lucky to have an unseasonably warm day. Even so, the air was still quite crisp, so I made sure to keep Sarah and Brent moving throughout the session.

Movement in photos is one of my favorite ways to showcase connection and emotion. Not only did it help keep them warm, but it also allowed me to capture their love in a way that felt organic, playful, and full of joy.

I incorporated a variety of fun and dynamic poses to add energy and contrast against the muted gray tones of the winter backdrop, and also made sure to capture all of the sweet, candid moments in between.

All in all, this was such a fun engagement session, and I couldn’t be more thrilled for Sarah and Brent.

Considering Winter Engagement Photos at Jump Off Rock? Tips to consider:

• Dress for the Weather: Layer up in stylish outerwear to stay warm without sacrificing style. Neutral tones photograph beautifully against the winter landscape and fun vintage coats and furry jackets can add personality.
• Time it Right: Aim for late afternoon for the warmest temps, and, if you’re lucky, a dramatic sunset.
• Bring Cozy Props: A blanket or a thermos of hot cocoa can add charm and warmth to your photos.
• Be Prepared for the Terrain: The park doesn’t require any hiking and the terrain is fairly flat, but there are some rocks to scramble over on the main overlook, so consider packing a set of shoes that you’re comfortable walking around in.

Want to Book an Engagement Photography Session?

If you ask me, getting engagement photos is one of the most fun steps along the journey to marriage. It’s your chance to pause and celebrate your love in a way that’s uniquely you—without the pressure of timelines or traditions. Just you and your love, sharing a playful moment together, whether that means holding hands at the top of mountain, dancing in your kitchen, or simply hanging out at a location that feels right for you.

As an Asheville photographer, I’ve been photographing couples for roughly a decade, and I still get excited every time I get to capture the radiance of connection. I’d be honored to capture your love. Get in touch.

As a food photographer, one of my favorite items to capture are cocktails. Photographing drinks is always a colorful and dynamic experience, and I love experimenting with lighting techniques to make every element—from the shimmering liquid to the vibrant garnishes—come alive.

Recently, I had the pleasure of shooting the new winter cocktail menu at Vinnie’s in South Asheville. The drink lineup was filled with fun pink and amber tones, alongside an array of glassware choices and a variety of garnishes/finishing touches. 

In this post, I’ll share some of the creative decision-making steps and techniques I use to help create memorable cocktail photos for clients here in Asheville and beyond.

Cocktail Photography Tips:
Here are a few key techniques I use when photographing cocktails.

As a food photographer, my goal is to create images that make people want to reach for a drink (or a bite). This latest shoot was an absolute pleasure, and I’m already looking forward to the next lineup of drinks that finds its way in front of my lens.

About the Photographer:
Grace here of GraceD Photography. I specializes in food and beverage photography, with a focus on creating vibrant, compelling images that showcase the story and craft behind every dish and drink. Whether it’s a seasonal cocktail or a beautifully plated entrée, my goal is to bring food to life in a way that makes people want to learn more. 

When it comes to classic Asheville backdrops for proposal photography and engagement sessions, The Biltmore Estate ranks high as a popular destination for couples looking to capture their love. The historic Asheville landmark offers plenty of variety, too, with its stunning architecture, sprawling gardens, and picturesque mountain views.

For this session, Andy came to me with the idea to propose to his girlfriend, Molly, hoping to capture the moment before their scheduled tour of the house. Together, we mapped out a plan, which included chatting about location options, ideal timing, and how we’d keep the whole moment a surprise.

For the location, we settled on the High Lawn, a spot that overlooks the entire Biltmore Estate, with the Blue Ridge Mountains peaking up just above the mansion’s dramatic roofline. This is an ideal location for winter photography sessions, when the gardens aren’t in full bloom. While winter may lack the vibrant colors and lush greenery of other seasons, the stunning architecture of the Estate creates an impressive, elegant backdrop that’s both memorable and timeless.

It was such a joy to photograph Andy’s proposal to Molly and the sweet moments that followed. I loved capturing Molly’s reaction and the natural excitement and love between these two.

I’m absolutely thrilled for them and wish them a lifetime of shared giggles, love, and happiness.

The holidays are a magical time, and what better way to celebrate than with a festive cocktail to cheers in the season? As a professional food photographer based in Asheville, I had the opportunity to collaborate with Pillar Rooftop Bar to capture their stunning holiday cocktail menu. From glittering garnishes to seasonal lighting to decorations galore, this shoot was a joy to participate in.  

Perched atop the Hilton Garden Inn, Pillar Rooftop Bar offers cityscape views of downtown Asheville and a spacious setting for group gatherings. For this year’s holiday season, the bar went all out, decking its interior from floor to ceiling with spirited decorations. There was a Christmas tree filled with ornaments, colorfully wrapped presents scattered across the floor, tinseled trinkets on every countertop, and sparkling lights strung throughout the space.

Known for their creative mixology, Pillar’s winter cocktail menu matched the vibe, blending classic flavors with fun, festive flair. These were drinks designed to go beyond just flavor, offering a sensory experience that screamed “holidays”.

The Art of Cocktail Photography

To fully capture the menu’s spirit, here are a few key elements I focused on during the shoot:

Why Hire a Professional Photographer to Capture Your Food and Drink Menu?

In a city like Asheville, where food and drink culture is vibrant and competitive, standing out is key. High-quality photography not only showcases the craftsmanship behind a cocktail but also helps venues like Pillar Rooftop Bar connect with target audiences on social media and beyond. Whether it’s catching the glimmer of a sugared rim or showcasing the golden hues of a whiskey barrel-aged spirit, professional images help tell a story and tempt the taste buds in a way that words alone simply cannot.

Let’s Work Together 

Are you a chef, mixologist, or restaurant owner in Asheville whipping up creative menus of your own? I’d love to collaborate to bring your talents and creations to life. My skill is combining food styling and lighting techniques to showcase the vibrant colors, intricate textures, and undeniable beauty of one of life’s greatest pleasures—food and drink—all while bringing your unique story to life.

If you’re ready to elevate your drink and food photography, get in touch. I’d love to hear your vision!

When you think of boudoir photography, you may imagine an indoor studio setting or soft bedroom backdrops. But have you ever considered taking your session outdoors? An outdoor boudoir shoot—particularly when the location is a peaceful lake surrounded by DuPont Forest(!)—offers a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s a chance to embrace nature’s beauty while celebrating your own confidence and sensuality.

The region surrounding Asheville, NC, offers an abundance of stunning landscapes and outdoor backdrops. I feel so lucky to call this area home. And to work with clients within it. 

This particular boudoir session fell on a misty December day. Typically, I like to shoot during golden hour. While it was a bit too cloudy to capture the sun’s light, fortunately, the weather conditions meant we had the lake all to ourselves. The soft light dancing on the water’s surface ended up creating the most beautiful setting, and as sunset approached, a delicate mist began to rise from the lake. It was dreamy.

My client totally rocked this shoot. We explored a mix of fluid movements, styled poses, and tastefully sensual close-ups. At one point, she even braved the chilly waters, perching on a submerged stool to capture some stunning shots in the lake. As the session wrapped up, I incorporated flash photography to add a dramatic edge, resulting in a diverse collection of images for her to choose from.

My client’s response to her gallery: “I am speechless. You captured what really feels authentically me in these photos, and I am so grateful.” 

My goal with every boudoir photography session is to make my client feel seen. Celebrated. Empowered. And this one was such a beautiful collaboration. I am grateful, too, and I look forward to doing more of these sessions in the future!

Thinking about a boudoir session for yourself? Whether you’re planning a bridal boudoir shoot, a gift for a partner, or a powerful way to celebrate yourself and your confidence, I’d love to chat with you. Get in touch.