Eat Like a Local in Charleston, South Carolina

Eat Like a Local in Charleston, South Carolina

Oyster Plater © Kate Thornton 2025

Charleston is a city rich in history, charm, and—perhaps most importantly—unforgettable food. Whether you're a brunch lover, barbecue aficionado, or looking for a romantic fine-dining experience, the Holy City has something for everyone. When friends ask me where to eat, I always point them toward a mix of casual and fine dining spots that locals can't get enough of. Here's a guide to help you eat like a Charleston local!

---

Breakfast & Brunch Spots

While breakfast isn’t my favorite meal, I like to save my daily calories for lunch and dinner. There are a few brunch spots that you won’t want to miss:

- Ruby Sunshine – This spot is a brunch lover's paradise with dishes like Eggs Benedict and French toast, all with a New Orleans twist.

- Miller’s All Day – Southern comfort meets modern flair. Try their famous shrimp and grits or biscuits for a true taste of Charleston.

- Big Bad Breakfast Charleston – Known for hearty, Southern-style breakfasts. If you’re hungry, this is the place to be.

- Island Provisions – A local favorite with excellent coffee, fresh pastries, and avocado toast that can’t be beaten.

---

Casual Lunch Stops

After exploring Charleston’s cobblestone streets and historic sites, you'll need a solid lunch. These spots offer laid-back atmospheres and fantastic food:

- Leon’s Oyster Shop – Famous for its fried chicken and oysters, this is a great spot for a relaxed meal in a lively setting.

- Home Team BBQ – Whether you go for the ribs or the smoked wings, Home Team BBQ is always a good choice for Southern barbecue.

- Lewis Barbecue – If you’re craving authentic Texas-style BBQ in Charleston, look no further than Lewis’s brisket and sausage.

- Gaulart & Maliclet “Fast and French”– A little French bistro with sandwiches, soups, and salads—perfect for a quick yet delicious bite.

- Huriyali– A health-conscious spot offering fresh smoothies, bowls, and sandwiches in a cozy, tropical setting.

Seafood © Kate Thornton 2025

Burger © Kate Thornton 2025

---

Dinner: Fine Dining Favorites

When it’s time to dress up for a night out (or if you're like me, just want to wear a sundress and flip-flops), Charleston's fine dining scene is not to be missed. These are some of the best restaurants in town:

- Sorelle – This Italian spot has locals raving. With an emphasis on fresh ingredients and house-made pastas, it's quickly becoming a favorite.

- The Establishment – My husband and I had an amazing anniversary celebration here recently. We both said it was one of the top 5 meals we’ve ever had in our 30 years living in Chalreston. It’s seafood-focused with an upscale atmosphere.

- Marbled and Fin – A steakhouse with an elegant setting, perfect for a special date night.

- Chubby Fish – One of Charleston’s most talked-about seafood joints, known for its daily catch and creative dishes.

- The Ordinary – This seafood hall delivers everything from oysters to lobster, with a stunning atmosphere to match.

- Chez Nous – Tucked away in a charming little house, this is a French-inspired gem that offers a changing daily menu.

- 167 Raw Oyster Bar – A hot spot for seafood lovers, with an incredible raw bar and some of the best lobster rolls in the city.

Pro Tip: Make Reservations Early

---

Whatever you choose, make sure to book your reservation at least two weeks in advance. Charleston's best spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. If you’re unable to snag a reservation, consider dining at off-peak times like 11:00 a.m. or 4:30 p.m., or grab a seat at the bar.

Charleston's food scene is a big part of what makes the city so special, so enjoy every bite! - KATE

The Charleston Battery © Kate Thornton 2025

Annual In-Home Family Portrait Session Prep Guide

Welcoming a new family member? Or maybe you just want to freeze a moment in time with your loved ones? I highly recommend making in-home family lifestyle portraits an annual event. Think of it as important as scheduling your annual doctor’s visit. These fleeting moments deserve to be remembered just as much as those milestone birthdays or holidays.

A West Ashley family welcomes their new baby.

Comfort Meets Candid

One of the best things about in-home sessions is the comfort. You’re in your own space, which means everyone is more relaxed—and we can include your pets! These sessions are a little peek into your everyday life, and capturing them means you'll always have lasting memories of these fleeting moments. It’s like hitting the pause button on life, just for a while, so you can look back and remember how special this time was.

Natural Light, Natural Moments

I absolutely love working with natural light! The best time for these sessions is during daylight hours, ideally between 9 a.m. and noon. We’ll embrace the natural light from your windows, turning off overhead lights (because, let’s be honest, they tend to cast an unflattering orange glow). Even on cloudy days, you’ll be amazed at how much beautiful light comes pouring in, creating the perfect environment for your photos.

Candids Are My Jam

While we’ll certainly get a few posed shots, the heart of an in-home session is capturing those unplanned, candid moments. Whether it's building Legos with your kiddos, baking cookies together, or having a tickle fight on the bed, the most genuine smiles come from doing what you love. If you’ve got an activity that’s a favorite for your family, we’ll capture that magic as it happens. Trust me—those spontaneous snaps often turn out to be the favorites.

Make the Most of Your Space

We don’t need to photograph every corner of your home. In fact, I recommend picking just a few key spots with great natural light. Whether it’s your living room, kitchen, or even the front porch, these spaces will shine in your photos. And don’t worry, we can absolutely head outside to the backyard or garden for a few outdoor shots as well.

A Session as Unique as Your Family

The beauty of in-home lifestyle sessions is in the fluidity. We have up to 90 minutes, and while I’ll guide you with direction and suggestions, the session is meant to capture the real-life moments happening around you. That’s the magic. I always encourage families to provide a short list of must-have shots, but beyond that, we’ll let the session naturally evolve.

Year-Round Fun

The great thing about in-home family portraits is that they’re perfect any time of year. Some families love scheduling sessions around the holidays to capture the festive decor. Others opt for spring or summer, when the light is bright and warm. Whatever season you choose, the natural light will always be our guide!

Fast Turnaround

I know how eager families are to see their photos, and I pride myself on having a speedy turnaround time. You’ll receive your full gallery within two to three weeks, so you can start sharing and framing those precious moments sooner than later.

Questions? I’m Here to Help

With 20+ years of experience photographing families, I’m always here to help guide you through the process. Whether you're wondering what to wear, which rooms to shoot in, or what to expect during the session, don't hesitate to ask. I'm here to make your experience as easy and enjoyable as possible!

If you're ready to book or just want to learn more, reach out. Let’s capture those everyday moments that make your family special!

‘TIS THE SEASON - KATE’S FESTIVE FAMILY WARDROBE GUIDE!

Kiawah Island, SC Ocean Course family portrait 

Ho, ho, ho! Rumor has it, Santa’s workshop is buzzing up North, prepping for that jolly, worldwide sleigh ride. The Holiday season is upon us, and it's that magical time for merry greetings and, you guessed it, those fabulous holiday cards! There's something downright enchanting about having your family portrait made smack in the heart of the Christmas buzz. The air's filled with magic, excitement is on the rise, and everyone's bubbling over with holiday cheer. While some opt for warmer days for their family portraits, I say there's pure whimsy in capturing your family portrait right in the midst of the holiday season. Here are my top 6 tips to sleigh your family's holiday portrait wardrobe:

• 1. PICTURE-PERFECT BACKDROPS - Let's talk settings! Take time to scout out and decide upon a beautiful outdoor location. Whether you choose the beach, the countryside, or even your own backyard, consider the background. The background will inform your wardrobe. For instance, simple outfits are stellar against busier backdrops. Simple background? Then maybe incorporate plaids and flannels!

• 2. PLAN THAT FLAIR - Set aside quality time to ponder your family's own personal style. Outfits are your portrait's backbone, so choose wisely! Santa's keeping an eye on your wardrobe choices! There is no wrong way to cull your own creativity and pick outfits that you feel accurately complement your family’s personality. 

• 3. COLORFUL COORDINATION - Matchy-matchy? Nah, let's coordinate without cloning! Sync those colors, patterns, and styles. Keep it unique, reflecting your family’s vibe this year. Whether you're glam or laid-back, it's all about showcasing your family's personality, not a picture-perfect match.

• 4. COZY CHIC - ‘Tis the season for snug styles! Add some warmth with textured sweaters or a cozy scarf. Texture is the secret recipe for a spot on the Nice List! Don’t forget those faux-fur throws for that extra cozy touch during outdoor shoots.

• 5. ACCESSORIZE WITH CAUTION - Less is more in the accessory department. Sure, holiday props add flair, but too much can steal the show. Rock your gloves and hats, but let's keep the focus on your family, not the patterns or puffy coats. Also, no plastic Santa gnomes, please. Maybe we can try that route next year.

• 6. HOLIDAY FUN, NOT STRESS - This is about capturing your family's essence. Embrace those candid moments! Cozy winter wear and a splash of cohesive colors are all you need to let your family's true colors shine. Trust me, those spontaneous snaps beat the 'perfectly posed' images every time! It's the Holidays—let’s cherish the moments, revel in our loved ones, and freeze this wonderful chapter in time. Enjoy, play, and relish the childlike joy with you and yours!

Let's capture the joy, Charleston-style! Click, click!”

Downtown Charleston, SC Family Portraits

The Stewart Family, photographed in White Point Gardens.

For over 25 years, we've been family portrait photographers based in the beautiful city of Charleston, SC. We've captured everything from marriage proposals to large family gatherings of over 30 people, and everything in between. We're excited to welcome all the families booking for Fall 2024!

In this post, I will walk you through everything you need to know about booking your downtown Charleston family portrait session, from start to finish. We’ll cover the best times to book, selecting the perfect location, what to wear, weather considerations, and more!

Kate Thornton, photographing a family portrait in Downtown Charleston, South Carolina, South of Broad Street

When is the best time to book?

If you live in Charleston...

Living in the Charleston area gives you the advantage of booking a downtown session any time of year. However, the ideal months are between March and May when temperatures are cooler, and you can enjoy the beautiful blooms and flower boxes. Fall and Winter are also fantastic, with festive decor starting around October and holiday decorations filling the city by Christmas.

If you're visiting...

If you’re planning a visit, just share your vacation dates when you inquire, and we’ll let you know our availability during your stay. Charleston’s historic areas offer stunning backdrops year-round.

A Family Portrait at White Point Gardesn better know as “The Battery”

What days and times do you take sessions?

Unlike the beach, our downtown sessions are more flexible in timing. For locations near the water, such as The Battery and Pineapple Fountain, we aim for sunrise or sunset to capture that soft lighting. For other spots, early and mid-morning sessions work best, as there are fewer people and cars around. We shoot sessions every day of the week, but Friday through Sunday, we only shoot in the mornings to avoid the crowds.

Where do you take sessions?

Downtown Charleston is full of incredible nooks, from the southernmost point of the peninsula to the French Quarter just north of Broad Street. We have countless favorite spots from our 25+ years of exploring, and we’re always discovering new ones. Hampton Park offers greenery, seasonal flowers, and Spanish moss, while White Point Garden provides a mix of large oaks and historic architecture. South of Broad features neutral tones, brick textures, and iron gates, while Rainbow Row and the French Quarter offer colorful, iconic backdrops.

What do you recommend for children?

Children are usually at their best when well-rested. If you’re on vacation, we recommend scheduling morning sessions for children under 5, as they’re often tired and ready for bed by afternoon. Keeping their sleep schedule in mind is crucial to a successful session.

What do you recommend for larger groups?

Our answer: It depends. Planning a group portrait can be challenging, but we find that an early morning session is often best, especially if you have a busy day planned or young children in the group. Historic areas are less crowded in the morning, and parking is easier. Plus, you can explore the city afterward. However, if your group prefers to sleep in, evening sessions are an option, but keep in mind that summer showers often occur in the afternoon.

What should we wear?

For downtown sessions, it’s best to stick with solid, pastel colors. In areas like Rainbow Row, neutrals, coastal colors, and pastels are ideal to avoid clashing with the vibrant backdrops. For spots like South of Broad or White Point Garden, you can opt for bolder jewel tones or fall colors. Avoid loud, clashing colors, and large logos on clothing—stick to timeless, classic styles.

What if it rains?

Don’t worry too much about the weather—Charleston’s climate can be unpredictable, but we’ve been navigating it for almost 30 years. It’s normal to see a chance of rain every day, but often, the rain doesn’t last long. We monitor the weather closely and make decisions about rescheduling or adjusting start times as needed. Our goal is to ensure we capture your session as planned, even if we need to make some last-minute adjustments due to the weather.

The Stewart Family photographed on Meeting Street

What should we expect during our session?

We guide every session through a mix of posed and candid moments, capturing the unique charm of each location. Before your session, you’ll receive a "Family Portrait Prep Guide" with tips to help you prepare. During the session, we’ll cover a variety of groupings, from full family shots to individual portraits. For extended families, we include generational shots, cousin photos, and any other special requests. We’ll outline our route at the start, but always feel free to ask questions or make requests.

Summertime Kiawah and Seabrook Island Senior Portraits

A High School Senior Portrait on Kiawah Island, SC

Capturing the Summer Glow

As summer draws to a close, the golden light and lingering warmth make it the perfect time to capture senior portraits. There's something magical about the way the sun kisses the skin during those late summer days, giving seniors a radiant glow that symbolizes the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. Whether you're a high school or college senior, here are some tips to ensure your end-of-summer photoshoot captures your unique personality and that coveted summer glow.

1. Dress to Impress: Casual, Dressy, and Fun

When it comes to senior portraits, variety is key. Bring along three different outfits to showcase the different sides of your personality:

Casual: Think of your favorite everyday outfit. This could be a pair of well-worn jeans, a comfy yet stylish top, and a pair of sneakers or sandals. The goal here is to feel comfortable and authentically you.

Dressy: Choose something a bit more polished for a timeless look. A sundress or a button-up shirt with slacks can give your portraits a sophisticated edge while still feeling appropriate for the season.

Fun: This is where you can let your personality shine. Maybe it's a bold color, a quirky pattern, or an accessory that stands out. The fun outfit is all about showing off your unique style.

High School Senior Portrait on Kiawah Island, SC

2. Bring Along a Buddy: Mom, Best Friend, or Both

Senior portraits are not just about capturing how you look—it's about capturing who you are at this pivotal moment in your life. Bringing along your mom, best friend, or both can add an extra layer of authenticity to your photoshoot. They can help you in numerous ways:

Styling Assistance: They can help with outfit changes, ensure your hair and makeup stay in place, and offer advice on which accessories to wear.

Emotional Support: Having someone who knows you well can help ease any nerves. Plus, they'll be there to share inside jokes, making you laugh and helping your true personality shine through in the photos.

Extra Hands: Whether it's holding reflectors, props, or just helping you navigate the location, an extra pair of hands can make the session smoother and more enjoyable.

The presence of someone close to you will not only make the shoot more fun but will also help you feel more relaxed, leading to more natural, candid shots.

3. Time It Right for the Perfect Glow

Late summer afternoons offer the best natural lighting for portraits. The sun is lower in the sky, creating a soft, golden light that's incredibly flattering. Aim to schedule your photoshoot during the "golden hour"—the hour or two just before sunset when the light is warm and diffused. This time of day will highlight your skin's natural summer glow, adding a dreamy, almost ethereal quality to your photos.

If you're an early riser, the hour after sunrise offers similar lighting conditions. Whether you choose sunrise or sunset, timing your shoot to take advantage of this light will ensure your photos have a natural warmth and glow that can't be replicated.

Seabrook Island, the perfect location for a high school Senior Portrait

Capturing the Summer Glow on Seabrook Island, SC