A Laid-Back Step Into Lowcountry Charm

Bluffton, South Carolina, was the perfect laid-back stop on our Southern trip. After the bustling energy of Charleston, we were ready for a slower pace, and Bluffton delivered with its quiet streets, historic homes, and unmistakable Southern charm. Located along the May River, the town’s quaint beauty offered a refreshing contrast to the grandiosity of Charleston, making it an ideal place to unwind.

The heat and humidity of the day gave Bluffton an unmistakably swampy feel, which I found oddly captivating. Being from New England, I was drawn to the unfamiliar—houses that looked like they belonged in a history book, antique cars parked on quiet streets, and an atmosphere that seemed frozen in time. Each scene presented itself effortlessly, as if the town was eager to tell its story through my lens.

While we only spent about two hours in Bluffton, I aimed to capture the relaxed rhythm of the afternoon. My photos focused on the details that brought the town to life: historic architecture, vintage cars, and a sundial shimmering in the harsh midday light. Shooting in such bright conditions was challenging, but I used a film simulation with muted, photochrom-inspired tones to emphasize the swampy, hazy mood of the day. This subtle adjustment softened the harsh light and brought out the character of Bluffton’s landscapes.