Smoky Mountain Wedding Photo Locations at The Trillium Venue
December 18, 2025
Explore some of the best photo locations on the property: Through the lens of Derek Halkett
If you’ve been searching for the perfect backdrop for your mountain wedding, you’ll love exploring the most photogenic spots at The Trillium Venue. This mountaintop estate is home to several breathtaking Smoky Mountain wedding photo locations, and few people know them better than Tennessee wedding photographer Derek Halkett.
He’s photographed more than 100 weddings here, and according to him, “No two days ever look the same.” His experience at The Trillium can provide you with great insight when planning your shot list for the big day!
The Ceremony Patio: an Elevated Space that Wraps the Venue
The Ceremony Patio is Derek’s go-to location when shooting weddings at The Trillium. “It’s 180 degrees of pure Smoky Mountain magic,” he says. The patio sits well above the tree line, creating the most scenic backdrop from any angle. The mountains do a lot of the heavy lifting, and the couples, well they just get to take it all in. According to Derek, this space is “intimate, cinematic, and it just works—every single time.”
Hidden Gems on The Trillium Venue Property
Q: Is there a “hidden gem” spot at The Trillium that couples might overlook but you love to use?
A: “The little wooded patch by the parking lot, the lower-level patio, the underside of the main patio, and even the access road that snakes behind the venue.” According to Derek, this is “where The Trillium really shines.”
Derek says if you “combine that with a couple who’s willing to explore, that’s when the real magic happens.” We built the venue with this exact purpose in mind. Leaving much of the surrounding land untouched, gives the impression that the venue is nestled within the mountains and allows for really unique portrait opportunities.
The Lookout: A Wide-Angle Photographer’s Dream
Q: Which do you prefer: detail shots or wide angle landscapes?
A: “I’m a wide-angle junkie… but the epic and the intimate together tell the full story.”
The Lookout is one of the strongest Smoky Mountain wedding photo locations at The Trillium Venue. Located just at the edge of the driveway, it’s open, bright, and perfect for those sweeping wide-angle shots and full venue landscapes. This location never fails when it comes to uninterrupted mountain views.
Q: If you had to describe the views in one word, what would it be?
A: “Jaw-dropping. No two sunsets are ever the same here.”
Derek often brings couples here during golden hour to capture ridgeline silhouettes and soft light portraits. Pro-tip: make sure to schedule in some time for your golden hour portraits so you don’t miss these few minutes of incredible lighting!
The Staircase: Unexpectedly Romantic
The large wooded staircase leading up to the Ceremony Patio frames couples beautifully without being overbearing. Derek loves how the rustic wood creates depth in the images. “It feels romantic without trying too hard,” he shares. This scenery naturally invites you to cuddle up close and often makes for some of the most relaxed photos.
The Breezeway: Versatile and Dependable
Q: What is the hardest part about photographing weddings (specifically in the Smoky Mountains)?
A “Light. Always light. Mountains love to keep you on your toes. Shadows, midday sun, clouds rolling in, quick shifts in weather—you name it. But that’s the fun part. I chase the light, move with it, and sometimes find gold where no one expects it.”
There is gorgeous symmetry in the breezeway leading down to the aisle. But, the ceremony is not the only event captured here. The breezeway is versatile and can be used to capture candid’s, newlywed portraits, and most often grand exits. Because this area is covered, it is protected from the elements. This can be is super helpful as a photographer when you need to get creative.
Bridal Suite Balcony: Bright & Effortless
Q: What should couples let their photographer know before going into the big day?
A: “Talk to your photographer. Tell us your must-have shots, favorite spaces, or moments you really want to remember. Then leave a little room for spontaneity.”
The Bridal Suite balcony is made for getting-ready photos with your girls. Natural light pours in, and the neutral palette photographs beautifully. Derek prefers to pair tight detail shots with breezy balcony portraits to give his brides a mix of intimate and airy images all within a single space.
Lower Veranda: Laid-Back with Lots of Natural Light
Located conveniently outside the Groom’s Lounge, the lower veranda is the perfect outdoor oasis. The light stays soft here, which keeps everything flattering and natural making it perfect for grooms portraits.
With plenty of space on the veranda, it’s also great for hanging out and enjoying outdoor entertainment on the morning of your wedding. The Trillium Shop features a Gentleman’s Entertainment Package which includes a ping pong table, foosball table, a putting green, two corn hole sets, and giant Jenga all set up for you on the veranda.
Changing Seasons and Chasing Sunsets
A short walk away, the driveway becomes one of the most surprising highlights. Derek loves to capture his iconic wide angle landscapes here. The golden skies and mist give these photos added flair, but honestly every photo taken here is lasting impression quality.
Q: Do you have a favorite season to photograph The Trillium in?
A: “Fall—hands down. The golden light, crisp air, and smoky mountain colors are just magical. But honestly every season brings something different, and I love that unpredictability.”
The Trillium Venue is the ideal Smoky Mountain destination for photos because it truly shines in every season. Need help narrowing which season is perfect for your Smoky Mountain Wedding? Explore our Seasonal Blogs Here!
Want to see more of Derek’s work?
Visit his website at www.derekhalkett.com, follow him on Instagram @derekhalkettphotography, and check out his Pinterest page @halkettphoto for more inspiration.
Everything you Need, all in one Incredible Venue
Our mission at The Trillium is simple: make destination wedding planning in the Smoky Mountains feel effortless. Our client-hub, planning resources, and first-class amenities provide you will all the tools you need to successfully plan your destination wedding from afar and our team members are always ready to jump in when you face questions or need recommendations. We invite you to take an instant virtual tour and discover all the gorgeous spaces you gain access to when you book The Trillium.
Ready to discover what makes The Trillium one of the most epic and unmatched wedding venues in the Tennessee Smoky Mountains? Begin your virtual tour experience today and explore our breathtaking views, stunning spaces, and effortless planning experience!
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