Photographers thrive in places where there are two things; 1) lots of light and 2) an abundant amount of beautiful places to photograph. While the entire state of North Carolina is pretty picturesque, the Research Triangle Park has three of the most photogenic cities in the entire state. I may be a little biased because I've lived there my entire life, but after you take a look at some of these places you just may be persuaded to think the same as I do too.

1. Sarah P. Duke Gardens (Durham)

The Sarah P. Duke Gardens are located just off of Duke University's campus and is one of the most beautiful, and peaceful, locations in all of the Research Triangle Park. From the Asiatic Arboretum to the Historic Gardens there is something there for everyone. If you're a nature buff like me, this will be your happy place!

2. Sisters' Garden House (Chapel Hill)

This little gem is not that well known in comparison with the much larger, more widely known gardens such as the Sarah P. Duke Gardens. Despite that, it is one of the most beautiful places in all of Chapel Hill. It's only opened for two or so months of the year when the garden is in full bloom, and is more than worth the trip. It started as a small house garden by two twins when they were younger, now it is kept up in their honor and is open to the public to enjoy for a portion of the year.

3. Coker Arboretum (Chapel Hill)

In the Chapel Hill area and in need of some peace and a beautiful spot for a picnic? Coker Arboretum is your go-to spot, or it should be at least. It's located on UNC's campus and is a well trafficked area for students, photographers, and nature lovers alike. If you're ever in need of artistic inspiration, or somewhere to peacefully nap in the sun, this is your place.

4. Historic Yates Mill Pond (Raleigh)

A spot known for playing host to prom and wedding pictures, its beauty doesn't fail to impress. Nothing like a peaceful waterfall and an old mill to make for great photographs.

5. William B. Umstead Park (Raleigh)

Located in the heart of Raleigh and expanding out into other cities, this expansive state park is both relaxing and restorative. Whether you're there for pictures or for hiking it doesn't fail to have something for just about any nature lover or photographer in your life.

6. WRAL Azalea Gardens (Raleigh)

In the need of prom, engagement, wedding, or just goofy pictures with friends? The WRAL Azalea Garden is located in the heart of Raleigh and is astonishingly beautiful.

7. Eno River State Park (Durham)

As with any state park, Eno is good for a few things; hiking, camping, and photography. Need I say more?

8. Duke University Chapel (Durham)

Just about anywhere you go on Duke's campus is going to be picturesque and appear to be pulled straight out of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter novels. The most prominent and beautiful building on Duke's campus though would have to be their chapel. While it was recently remodeled inside, the outside doesn't fail to demonstrate class and elegance if you're in need of some cute pictures.

9. North Carolina Botanical Garden (Chapel Hill)

While Coker Arboretum is technically part of the NC Botanical Garden it deserved its own spotlight. That doesn't mean that the rest of the gardens aren't just as beautiful. Anywhere you go in Chapel Hill you are bound to find parts of the NC Botanical Garden and it won't fail to leave you in awe and breathless.

10. JC Raulston Arboretum (Raleigh)

Located on NC State's campus, the JC Raulston Arboretum is home to beautiful flora and is a must see picture taking location when in downtown Raleigh.

No matter where you are on Tobacco Road you are sure to find some great places to stop and take some pictures. This list is just the tip of the iceberg. Each city has their own vibe and own unque places to go out and explore with camera in hand. Take some time this summer, or later on in the year to go out and discover what each of these places has to offer, or what other hidden gems these cities have to offer.