With Fall quickly approaching and cooler temperatures approaching we started thinking about one of our top questions we receive from our engaged couples. Where can we do engagement photos?
It's a great question and we take pride on knowing where to go. But more importantly, you need to know what are the policies and are there any fees associated with the location? We've included those tips in our list, plus the best times of year for photos, best features for each location and when to stay away from certain locations because of yearly events.
So take a look at at our Top Ten Places for Engagement Photos and of course we are always adding and updating this list from year-to-year. Policies and fee requirements are constantly changing and we are always discovering new and fun places for engagement photos. So be sure to be aware of these policies so you can have a great engagement session experience!
Enjoy our list and please feel free to share with friends!
10. Historic Yates Mill Park
Historic Yates Mill Park requires you to make a reservation for your engagement session in advance. There is no fee requirements to photograph there, just the reservation. If you like water in your photos, then Yates Mill offers some great water backdrops. There is also the mill itself and long wooden pathways over water that make great spots for photos. Fall is a peak time for photos in and around the park so keep that in mind when scheduling your engagement session.
9. Historic Oak View Park
Historic Oak View Park is a great place to photograph if you are looking for bright white barns, gorgeous foliage and white picket fences. Oak View does require a reservation for your photo session, but there are no fee requirements. Oak View offers a great combination of country vibes with a modern look.
8. University of Chapel Hill
UNC Chapel Hill has some of the best fall colors around. It also, fantastic in Spring and you can count on great architecture as well. Long winding pathways, gorgeous staircases, huge oak trees and landmark locations like the 'Well'. Stay away from peak times like the two weeks leading up to graduation when students are out and about getting those final photos done before graduation. Plan on doing some walking, but it's worth it to get some great photos.
7. WRAL Azalea Gradens
The WRAL Azalea Gardens in Raleigh is a favorite among our couples. The gardens are at it's peak in May when the temperatures are cool and the azalea's are in full bloom. Don't schedule your session on weekends especially prom, graduation and Mother's Day. The gardens are swamped with other people wanting photos at this time of year. Schedule it during the week and even try an early morning session where chances of people are far less.
6. NC State University
Do you need to be an NC State fan to have your engagement photos at NC State University? Probably, but there is some gorgeous architecture in and around the campus. You can photograph at certain angles and you would never know it's NC State. But of course, being a fan only adds to the possibilities and adding your favorite NC State clothings brings it up another level.
5. American Tobacco Campus
The American Tobacco Campus is a fun place to photograph. There is no end of spots within the campus to photograph. Biggest concern when photographing there is to be aware of Durham Bulls home games and sometimes DPAC events. Also, you have to be aware of not blocking pedestrian pathways in and around the campus. You will most likely run into a security guard or two that will list out the rules of where you can take photos. But is worth it in the end when you get some spectacular photos.
4. JC Raulston Arboretum
The JC Raulston Arboretum is as close as you can get with permit fees and reservations. The gardens offer a gorgeous backdrop and look great all year round. There are different themed gardens including desert, asian gardens, roses and more. Spring is a peak time for color and fall is peak time for family sessions. So the gardens are busier in the fall than any other time of year. So keep that in mind when scheuling your session.
3. NC State Capitol Building
The NC State Capitol is a landmark place for engagement photos. The architecture of the building, the huge oak trees, park benches and long winding walkways. It is especially beautiful in fall when the leaves change colors. It can get busy here at times especially on weekends so that keep that in mind when scheuling your photo session.
2. Downtown Raleigh
Downtown Raleigh is gorgeous for engagement photos. From Nash Square Park, to newly renovated Moore Square Park, Boylan Bridge, cool alleys and murals that give you a wide array of photo opportunities. Downtown Raleigh offers the best of both worlds where you can capture green lush photos in the spring and summer. Then you can get beautiful fall colors in October and into November. As an added benefit, you can pop into one of the many craft breweries for a photo and a craft beer! So if you are looking for a variety of photo opportunities Downtown Raleigh is a great choice!
1. Historic Downtown Durham
Historic Downtown Durham has a huge variety of places for your engagement photos. The landscape of downtown is still changing and offers everything from boutique hotels, cool alleys, graffiti and mural walls and much more. Almost any style works downtown especially if you pride yourself on being a fashion forward couple. Be ready to do some walking, but it is the best way to get around. Take heart though, there are some great places for food and well deserved cocktail after your session that include skyline views from rooftop bars!
Sean, Visual Storyteller
