Savannah photography opens the eyes to possibilities using our cameras and artistry. Savannah is bright and vibrant with post-card architecture. History lives at every turn. Not to forget, there’s a delicious food scene too.
It’s been three years since my last visit to this charming, southern town. We are again staying in the midst of the historic district thanks to Lucky Savannah properties. Abercorn and Liberty Street are a stone’s throw away from two major historical areas. The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and the historic (and haunted) Colonial Park cemetery reside across the street.
Additionally, we’re walking distance from garden squares rich with green waxy leaves, spring flora, fountains, statues and park benches. Mouth watering restaurants reside on almost every corner. Forsyth Park blankets multiple city blocks with runners, walkers, families, dog-lovers absorbing moss draped paths and open green space .
A ten to fifteen minute drive and your strolling through the Bonaventure Cemetery (in the featured image above) or along, tree lined stretch of Wormsloe Plantation.
In other words, there’s so much to see, explore and photograph within walking distance or a quick drive.
Savannah Photography Icons – They are Not a Secret
Even though I’ve been to Savannah multiple times, I always take time to research hotspots and recent reviews. This Includes Pinterest (this will take you to some of my Georgia pins), Instagram and research on the web. Today, there are many bloggers who share locations, iconic photography spots and restaurants in just about every city around the world. Great intel and reads!
However, the ‘Savannah photography vibe’ is much more that the top 8 – 10 spots you’ll see repetitively in blogs and images. Yes, some are mentioned here as well. I’ll also suggest that the photography is not a walk to an iconic spot and ‘get your shot’. Walking? Definitely! Easy shooting? Sometimes.
I’m not saying not to photograph the iconic places. Definitely take advantage of those sites (I do!). Additionally, explore and find sites that share your talented photographic eye.
Savannah Photography – Your Eye, Your Artistry, Your Interpretation
The beauty of Savannah is capturing what your eyes see and your spirit feels.
Yes, it’s that kind of town. There are moments where I’m already thinking, “digital art” as it feels like a painting. Then there’s the moment of trying to capture the essence and artistry of an isolated, open window or doorway. Add in the “I think it’s just cool” and you’ll more than likely arrive back with a ton of diverse images to play with.
That’s what I both love and find challenging about Savannah photography. What was cool, may not be on your computer screen. What you struggled so hard to achieve, turned out better than expected. This remains true for all of our art. For me, my personal experience is that I have more good and not-so-good surprises here than any other location.
Sharing Savannah – What do You See?
- Less is more – As you walk around Savannah, if only the historical homes could talk. Well, they can through your eyes! Take in the big scene and follow your eye. You’ll find more than big scenes. Details live everywhere you turn. Color, black and white or somewhere in between.
- Shadows and light – A few years ago, I walked the streets with Melissa Schneider. Seeing the city with the eyes of a local artist who lives and embraces Savannah’s charm and knows the light, makes an impact. This early morning shadow play framed a moment, a space. Suddenly, the light and shadows became more visible throughout the city.
- Haunting and lovely – The ghosts of Savannah. Do they exist? That’s up to you and your experiences. However, you’ll discover firsthand stories, places and even feelings throughout the city. Courtyards, cemeteries, homes, streets have stories from people (like you and me) about their invisible residents and encounters.
- Windows with a view – Ah, the windows with views. A view to the sky, their courtyards, the life on the street. The windows, framed with shutters, greenery, flowering trees add life to homes.
- Color – Think pink. Believe in blue. Go with green. And any color in between. From gardens to colors of doors and walls, Savannah color frames every street.
- Quirky and fun – Savannah with her lovely and haunted past has a fun and lively spirit. That spirit evolves with each visitor and local who experiences her unique flair. Keeping Savannah special is not only about history, but how she continues to evolve with the times.
Close by – Tybee Island
Collision with a beach town – Not too far down the road is Tybee Island. A little beach town that will take you to vacation times of years ago. You won’t find the big chains. What you’ll discover is a modern beach with many mid century cottages still in use today.
Favorite Places and Spaces
When you’re in Savannah, it’s ok to not think photography first (my friends will not believe I wrote that!). Take in the local scene – the arts, the food, the gardens, the people. Here’s a few.
The Local Scene
- Tiffani Taylor Art Gallery – If you want a mini vacation into colors and artistry that sings off the canvas, stop by her gallery. I literally felt as if her poppies were crying tears of pure joy. She also has a few of Melissa Schneider’s Encaustic pieces that melt and sooth the soul. You can also read about Tiffani’s commitment to artists who’ve been awarded the Tiffani Taylor Endowed Painting Scholarship.
- SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design) – Visit their contemporary art museum that celebrates emerging and established international artists through rotating exhibits of commissioned works. SCAD continues to be a well-respected and vital resource for their students and alumni throughout their careers.
- 22 Historic Garden Squares, relax and watch – The garden squares are not just for passing through to the next block. Stop. Take a seat. Listen to the fountain. The quiet conversation of passers by. The buzzing song of the Carolina Wren.
- Picnic Lunch in a Square from Parker’s Market – This robust little market on Drayton Street (north of Liberty) has big taste and big options. Go for their fried chicken sandwich with the Parker Sauce and keep the pickles (and I don’t typically like pickles!) Seriously, I woke up thinking about it.
- Forsyth Park at sunset – Every blog says go here. And yes, it’s a must. But, there’s more than just pathways, flowers and people. Look up and you just might see a family of Barred Owls, Coopers Hawks and other birds that have made Forsyth their home.
- Bonaventure Cemetery – The stories told by the headstones carry you back in time. The breeze that floats through the trees brings serenity and peace.
Closing out the Day: Savannah Nights
In closing, Savannah is a city that should be explored from the street. And while the mornings and afternoons are filled with lovely light, night calls. Don’t forget your tripod, as the spirits of Savannah await.
Related reading: Travel Photography by Car
