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Capturing the Greenway Through Carissa Rogers’ Lens

When Carissa Rogers steps onto the grounds of the Anne Springs Close Greenway, she’s not just arriving with a camera in hand, she’s bringing her eye for storytelling, her love for people and her deep connection to the community. For the past seven and a half years, Carissa has generously shared her time and talent as a volunteer photographer, capturing the beauty, vibrancy and heart of the Greenway through her lens.

A professional portrait and wedding photographer by trade, Carissa brings more than a decade of experience and creative energy to every shot. Her bright, vivid style and people-first approach make her a natural fit for photographing the Greenway’s wide variety of events, programs and natural spaces.

“I was looking for a way to give back locally,” Carissa explains. “When I heard the Greenway was seeking volunteer photographers, it just clicked. It was the perfect match between their needs and what I love to do.”

Since then, Carissa has become a familiar face behind the camera at many of the Greenway’s most beloved events and programs. One unforgettable favorite? Goat Yoga. “It was hilarious and challenging” she said. “I hadn’t shot many Greenway events at that point, and it was in full sun, so I was stressed about the lighting. But I learned a lot and still love those photos to this day.”

Her lens has explored nearly every corner of the Greenway—both the well-known and the hidden gems. From the peaceful banks of Lake Haigler to the trestle bridge, and from the Forest Playground to the historic Grist Mill, Carissa has documented the spaces and the people that make the Greenway so unique.

While Carissa generously volunteers her time and skills to the Greenway, she also incorporates her love of the Greenway with her professional photography business. A timeless favorite? Weddings at the Founders Dairy Barn—especially in the fall. “There’s just something magical about the location and the dreamy vibe that autumn brings to the Greenway. I especially love taking bridal portraits in the white rooms of the Dairy Barn—they have this soft, elegant light that makes every photo feel timeless. And if you’ve never seen a wedding held upstairs in the Barn, you are truly missing something spectacular.”

Her behind-the-scenes perspective also makes her an incredible resource for couples planning their special day. “When brides ask me for advice about getting married at the Greenway, I always tell them—the catering here is the best. It never disappoints, and I’ve eaten a LOT of wedding food over the years!” she laughs. “It’s all part of the experience, and the Greenway really knows how to make it special.”

It’s not just about photography for Carissa—it’s about connection. “I’ve been volunteering long enough that people sometimes mistake me for staff, and I love that,” she added. “And I get to share ‘secret spots’ with visitors looking for a special place to explore. There’s a real sense of community here.”

That sense of community is what continues to draw Carissa back, year after year. Whether she’s offering tips to brides planning a wedding or recommending a Thursday night concert for a first-time visitor, she’s a champion for all things Greenway. “I tell people all the time—join the Greenway. You’ll come for the land and the trails but stay for the culture. The concerts, the food trucks, the people… it’s all part of what makes this place special.”

Anne Springs Close Greenway relies on volunteers like Carissa to help bring our mission to life: connecting people to nature through recreation, education and conservation. Through her photography, Carissa not only preserves memories, but also helps tell the story of the Greenway in all its natural beauty and community spirit.

From stunning bridal portraits at the Founders Dairy Barn to action shots at kids’ camps and family events, Carissa’s work reminds us just how much there is to celebrate across the Greenway’s 2,100 acres. We’re incredibly grateful for her talent, dedication and enthusiasm—and we’re honored to have her as part of the Greenway family.

Interested in becoming a volunteer like Carissa? From event support to trail maintenance and special skills like photography, there’s a place for everyone to give back in meaningful ways at the Greenway. Learn more at ascgreenway.org/volunteer.

Fun Fact: Carissa’s expansive portfolio of Greenway photography can be viewed throughout the lobby of Piedmont Medical Center in Fort Mill.