Matric Farewell season is around the corner. Most of these events take place around September. As the month draws closer, I get this slight anxiety that things still need to be finalized and that finding a venue for this cherished, once-in-a-lifetime event is still a problem.
Oh, where shall we take photos on this day?
As I explored Pretoria, people mentioned the Klein Kaap, the Voortrekker Monument, and Jan Smuts House. Then I got to thinking. What should be considered when choosing a venue for these photos?
A few things to consider…
Style and Theme
Formal vs. Casual: Is your farewell a formal black-tie event or a more casual and relaxed gathering? Choosing a venue that matches the level of formality for the occasion.
Light and Mood: When thinking about the photography for your event, consider whether you prefer bright and airy photos, ones with dramatic shadows or a more romantic feel. It’s important to consider how the natural light at the venue will change throughout the day and how these changes will impact the overall mood and atmosphere of your photos.
Logistics and Permissions
Accessibility: You want to ensure you can easily get to the venue, especially if you are dressed formally. Are there plenty of parking spaces available?
Permissions: When taking photos at the venue, it’s important to inquire about permission, as fees may be associated, particularly for public gardens or historical buildings.
Time Constraints: Consider the venue’s time constraints. Select a location that offers sufficient time to capture all the specific photos you have in mind. These sessions should take 1 – 2 hours.
Transportation: The vehicle you intend to use for your arrival. Do you plan for it to be included in the photoshoot? If so, will it be accessible, and will there be additional charges for the extra time required?
Group Size and Needs
Number of People: Are you and your date planning to go alone, or will a bigger group of friends join you? It’s important to choose a venue that comfortably accommodates everyone, so consider the space available. This should not be much of a problem, as the venue where the event occurs makes provisions for those group photos.
Changing Facilities: Will you need a place to change into your outfits, especially if the venue is outdoors?
Additional Considerations
Backup Plan: What steps will be taken if the weather turns bad? Are there any indoor areas at the venue that we could utilize to take photographs?
Budget: When planning your event, remember that certain venues may require you to pay a photography fee. Therefore, it’s important to consider this additional cost when determining your overall budget.
When you consider these points, you can pick a venue that perfectly matches the vibe of your Matric Farewell and gives you a gorgeous backdrop for your photos. Now, let’s look at a few venues in the Pretoria Area.
Take Note: Venue Fees vary from R350 to R7000. You will have to contact the venues for more specific confirmation. The headings will include a link to their websites.
Outdoor Photography Venues in Pretoria
7 Unique Matric Farewell Photo Venues in Pretoria
1. Terrouges Equestria 🐴📷
This equestrian center is ideal for Matric Farewell photos, especially for horse lovers. It boasts picturesque landscapes and stunning stables, offering a classic yet unique backdrop. With horses available and ample space, it’s perfect for capturing you and your friends alongside horses. Facebook, Location
2. Waterkloof Airforce Museum ✈️📷
Capture a piece of aviation history for your Matric Farewell photoshoot at the Warerkloof Airforce Museum. Imagine posing in front of an impressive military aircraft inside one of the hangars, incorporating a unique and awe-inspiring backdrop into your celebratory photos. This venue offers a distinct alternative to the usual scenery, perfect for creating unforgettable memories. Facebook, Location
3. Rovos Rail 🚂📷
5. Voortrekker Monument 🏛️📷
It offers a unique and symbolic backdrop for your Matric Farewell photoshoot. Steeped in history, it allows you to capture photos amidst significant landmarks while celebrating your milestone of graduating high school. This venue provides a thought-provoking twist, perfect for those seeking a farewell photoshoot that’s both commemorative and meaningful. Facebook, Location
Capture the essence of history and grandeur in your Matric Farewell photoshoot with a backdrop of stunning architecture and historical artifacts. Imagine posing next to a dinosaur or against impressive architectural features, creating a sophisticated and unique atmosphere for this special milestone. This venue offers the perfect setting for a farewell photoshoot, blending history and grandeur for a memorable experience. Facebook, Location
Nature & Garden Options
8. Klein Kaap 🌲💐📷
With its reputation for stylish interiors and meticulous gardens, Klein Kaap Boutique Hotel provides a sophisticated and versatile backdrop for your Matric Farewell photoshoot. The venue offers elegant indoor spaces and picturesque outdoor areas, allowing you to capture various stunning and memorable photos. Facebook, Location
9. Pheasant Hill 🌲💐📷
Pheasant Hill Boutique Hotel’s French-inspired charm creates a romantic and elegant atmosphere for your Matric Farewell photoshoot. Lush gardens, a sparkling pool, and a classic manor house provide a variety of beautiful backdrops, perfect for capturing timeless and whimsical photos to commemorate this special occasion. Facebook, Location
10. Irene Dairy Farm 🐄🌲📷
Irene Farm offers a charming and relaxed setting for your Matric Farewell photoshoot. With open fields, rustic barns, scenic ponds, and animals, it provides a variety of picturesque backdrops that are both natural and interesting. The venue caters well to matric farewell photos, making it an affordable and hassle-free choice for capturing these special memories. Facebook, Location
11. Jan Smuts House 🌲📷
With its historical significance and beautiful gardens, the Jan Smuts House offers a unique and elegant backdrop for your Matric Farewell photos. The venue combines classic architecture with natural scenery, creating a timeless and sophisticated atmosphere for capturing this special event. Facebook, Location
12. Lewis Family Farm 🐄🌲📷
Lewis Family Farm provides a whimsical and interactive backdrop for your Matric Farewell photoshoot. Imagine posing with adorable farm animals, exploring rustic barns, or capturing photos amidst vibrant greenery. This unique venue offers a fun and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for creating lighthearted and memorable farewell pictures. Facebook, Location
13. Avenue on Iris 💐📷
Avenue on Iris offers a picturesque garden setting ideal for a Matric Farewell photoshoot. Lush greenery, vibrant flowerbeds, and charming gazebos create a romantic and natural backdrop for capturing special memories. This venue is perfect for those seeking an outdoor farewell photoshoot with a touch of elegance and whimsy. Facebook, Location
14. Rosemary Hill 🌲💐📷
With its diverse landscapes, Rosemary Hill offers a treasure trove of backdrops for your Matric Farewell photoshoot. Imagine capturing photos amidst lavender fields, rustic barns, or enchanting forests. This versatile venue allows for various styles, from whimsical and romantic to classic and rustic, making it perfect for creating unique and memorable farewell pictures. Facebook, Location
15. Imperfect Perfection 💐📷
16. Wingate Country Club 🏛️💐📷
17. Lavender SA 💐📷
Known for its sprawling lavender fields, it offers a picturesque and fragrant backdrop for your Matric Farewell photoshoot. Imagine capturing photos surrounded by rows of purple blooms, creating a romantic and unforgettable atmosphere. This unique venue is perfect for a farewell photoshoot bursting with color and natural beauty. Facebook, Location
18. Buyuk Chamlija 🏡📷
Buyuk Chamlija, with its recently developed eco-park and farm, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and modern touches for your Matric Farewell photoshoot. Imagine capturing photos amidst scenic landscapes, with options for open fields, dams, and even a rustic milk barn. This venue provides a fresh and versatile backdrop, perfect for a natural and interesting photoshoot. Facebook, Location
19. De Harte 🏛️💐📷
The venue offers a charming and elegant backdrop for your Matric Farewell photoshoot. With its manicured gardens, enchanting walkways, and a beautiful white hall, it provides a variety of picturesque locations for capturing timeless and romantic photos that perfectly commemorate this special occasion. Facebook, Location
20. National Botanical Garden 🌲💐📷
The venue boasts a stunning variety of flowers, ponds, and trees, creating a vibrant and enchanting backdrop for your Matric Farewell photoshoot. This expansive venue offers endless possibilities for capturing unique photos amidst colorful blooms, tranquil water features, and lush greenery, making it perfect for a farewell shoot bursting with natural beauty. Facebook, Location
Indoors
21. Sorcery Coffee
Its trendy and intimate atmosphere provides a unique backdrop for a casual yet stylish Matric Farewell photoshoot. Imagine capturing photos surrounded by exposed brick walls, quirky décor, and a vibrant coffee shop vibe. This venue is perfect for those seeking a relaxed and contemporary farewell shoot that reflects their style. Facebook, Colbyn, Wapadrand Location
The venue offers a unique and edgy backdrop for your Matric Farewell photoshoot. With its exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and large windows providing ample natural light, it creates an industrial-chic atmosphere. This venue is perfect for capturing photos with a modern and stylish feel, ideal for those wanting a farewell shoot that’s different from the norm. Facebook, Location
23. Hello Timber
A combination of rustic charm and natural beauty provides a perfect backdrop for your Matric Farewell photoshoot. Lush gardens, enchanting fairy lights (if available), and unique features like lace-covered timber structures create a whimsical and romantic atmosphere for capturing timeless memories. Facebook, Location
24. Lace on Timber
A perfect blend of elegance and rustic charm for your Matric Farewell photoshoot. Imagine capturing photos with a backdrop of French industrial details intertwined with lush greenery and natural landscapes. This versatile venue provides a romantic and stylish atmosphere, perfect for creating timeless and unforgettable farewell memories. Facebook, Location
25. Campagne Living
A tranquil and picturesque backdrop for your Matric Farewell photoshoot. Imagine capturing photos amidst charming hothouses, lush gardens, and a beautiful summer house. This venue provides a relaxed and natural atmosphere, perfect for creating timeless and elegant farewell memories, with options for intimate gatherings and outdoor scenery. Facebook, Location
26. House of Masuné
Provides a sophisticated and glamorous backdrop for your Matric Farewell photoshoot. This venue boasts a blend of modern architecture, manicured gardens, and potentially even a sparkling pool, creating a variety of chic locations for capturing timeless and elegant photos that perfectly commemorate your special occasion. Facebook, Location
Another option could be a friend’s or family member’s property with unique features. With today’s technology, you can edit that backdrop to whatever you need and save a bunch. The downside is that it’s not much of an adventure on the day.
After researching and writing this post, I felt like I was overthinking this. Do you agree?
That’s it from me on the 26 Matric Farewell Photo Venues in Pretoria. These recommendations should help and point you in the right direction.
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