I love being a wedding photographer in Maryland because some of the East Coast’s most stunning engagement session locations are just a short drive away! Within an hour, you can visit major cities like Washington DC, or beautiful coastal towns like Annapolis. Today, I’m revealing my top five favorite spots in the Mid Atlantic for engagement sessions. Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated garden location with a European feel or a rustic wooded backdrop, I have just the spot for you.
My Favorite Engagement Session Locations
Longwood Gardens
Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania is my favorite location for engagement photos! It’s perfect for any couple looking for a garden backdrop with a European twist. Between the gorgeous architecture and the perfectly manicured gardens, it truly feels like we flew to France or Spain to take your photos. Plus, it’s only a 90-minute drive from Baltimore, so you can easily make a day trip there – or spend a weekend away if you are looking for a fun date weekend idea! Note that the Gardens have implemented a new photography policy—advance notice, an escort, and a $250 permit are required.
Sherwood Gardens
Sherwood Gardens is close to home here in Baltimore. It’s also a location near and dear to my heart! I love these gardens so much that I chose to take my wedding portraits there. They’re the perfect spot for couples seeking a simple garden engagement session in a charming neighborhood. My expert tip: If you want the famous Tulip Gardens to be on display, pick a date in May! Their Tulip Dig takes place each May, where you can take home fresh blooms.
They also alow dogs, so it’s a great place if you are looking to bring your pup. Just remember to have a friend who can come along for the session, so they can watch your dog in between pictures. This way, you don’t have to worry about anything and can enjoy the afternoon! A photography permit is required, so secure yours here.
Fells Point
For fellow Baltimore locals—or those leaning into the city vibes for their wedding design—I recommend a session in my favorite neighborhood, Fells Point. We can stroll the cobblestone streets, enjoy the incredible harbor views, and embrace city life! I like to start engagement sessions in Fells Point at Broadway Pier for some water views, and then head to Patterson Park for some greenery. Pro tip: make a date out of your engagement session and head to Bmore Licks for ice cream afterward!
Patapsco Valley State Park
Patapsco Valley State Park is my favorite engagement session location for outdoorsy couples. We’ll encounter various backdrops hiking through the park, including waterfalls and a wooded meadow. There’s even a swinging bridge! It can get busy on the weekends, so I recommend scheduling your session for mid-week so we have more privacy and don’t have to wait for hikers to walk by. This location is especially stunning in the fall, as seen in this maternity session. The golden hour glow mixed with the warm autumn leaves is breathtaking!
Marian Coffin Gardens at Gibraltar
These gardens are located outside Wilmington, Delaware, so a short drive from Baltimore. Their intimate and slightly mystical feel is perfect for couples who want their session to have a vintage-inspired woodland vibe. The gardens have seasonal blooms, so no matter what time of year you go, there are sure to be some flowers for us to include. The hero of this location is the rod iron gates that open into a secret garden – it’s always my couple’s favorite space! Like Longwood Gardens, this location requires advance notice and a photography permit. But don’t worry – as your wedding photographer I can let you know if your location needs a permit, so you can get it ahead of time.
Does one of these engagement session locations match your vision? Let’s connect! I custom-tailor my wedding photography packages to each couple. We’ll hop on a consultation call, discuss your top priorities for your wedding photo coverage, and set a date for your engagement session. Plus, I can help you find the best location and let you know if we need any permits. I can’t wait to meet you and your partner!
