Best Engagement Session Locations in the Raleigh Durham Area Part 1 | Engagement Photography Raleigh Durham

I shoot a lot of engagement photography in the Raleigh Durham area and beyond, and I often get asked by my clients, “Where are some places we can go for pictures?” Over time, I’ve compiled quite a list of my favorites. Below are some of the best locations for engagement photography in Raleigh Durham. 

Sarah P. Duke Gardens in Raleigh Durham

Sarah P Duke Gardens has several phenomenal places to photograph. It has a wide variety of options, so it can appeal to different types of couples. But, one of the reasons I specifically go here is when a client wants classic and refined engagement photos. The curated and luxurious gardens appeal to people who want that timeless feel to their pictures. However, there are many different areas within the garden, so it can appeal to just about anyone if you know what you’re looking for.

Reynolda Gardens in Winston-Salem

Reynolda Gardens continues to be one of the Triad’s top places for all manner of photography! And, it continues to be one of my favorites. The location was developed in the 1900s, and  I’ve taken many photography sessions there, and have written several blogs about the area and why it’s a really great place!   It is a short trip from Raleigh Durham, and it is well worth it, I assure you!

Paul J Ciener Botanical Garden in Kernersville 

I enjoy photographing clients here, and it is definitely an up and coming location! The Paul J Ciener Botanical Garden is a manicured garden with different styles in each wing. You really feel like you’re at a French villa with this particular garden (and any of the above gardens, truly). The way the gardens are laid out are reminiscent of European gardens. Taking photos here result in elegant and timeless images for my clients to treasure for generations to come.

College campuses across North Carolina

While there are many more than just three, I will point out the main ones I prefer to shoot at. NC State, UNC Chapel Hill and UNCG all offer some amazing opportunities for some really great pictures. Each college campus has a variety of options because of the ways they’re designed. They all have historic buildings, well-cared for lawns, and well-established trees. And often in the evenings there are not many people there, so we have the location to ourselves and can really use the space. They are all lovely places with beautiful lights, landscapes, and buildings, each with its own design and personality.

Stick around for part 2! It’s always my joy to help couples find the engagement location that best matches them and their style. And when they get their photos back after the session, having images they are happy to see and display for a lifetime is a beautiful thing!