Engagement Photos in Philadelphia: A Guide

Surrounded by historic charm and iconic architecture in one of the country’s oldest cities, your engagement photos in Philadelphia will be unforgettable. Scroll in to see the most scenic and immersive engagement photoshoot locations (and the actual engagement pictures from those settings) in the city and surrounding areas. 

Where to take your engagement photos

My advice as a photographer? Honestly, it often comes down to two options — a location that you already know and love, a place that is sentimental to you and your story, or a brand new location that fits the aesthetic of your wedding vision.

Here are some ideas for your engagement photos in Philadelphia.

Other considerations for engagement pictures

1. The season — are you aiming for the warmth of fall foliage, a classic summer day in the city, or do spring or even winter fit your vision?
2. Your outfits — I recommend a neutral color palette free of busy patterns or brand logos. Try to avoid matching, and make sure to complement each other instead.
3. Your photographer — most couples use their wedding photographer for engagements too!
4. Announcements — where will you use these photos? Is it for an announcement, or for a memento of this just-you time? (Your wedding will be full of details, guests, and activities. Engagement photos are purely just for you two.)

Philadelphia Engagement Photo Locations

Old City Philadelphia

Made up of a collection of unbeatable Philadelphia sites, this location wraps up all of the old-world elegance that this city has to offer. With a walkable route along cobblestone streets, we’ll capture the grand architecture of buildings like the Merchants Exchange Building, First Bank, and the lush 18th-century gardens. You get multiple backgrounds and environments in one.

Here, your engagement photos will have a one-of-a-kind feel that’s both intimate and timelessly framed by the striking scenery.

Rodin Museum

Get your very own piece of Parisian elegance with the French-inspired atmosphere of the Rodin Museum. With neoclassical touches and picturesque greenery surrounding the reflection pond, your imagery will feel straight out of a classic film. Countless sculptures define this museum, so the results will be just as artistically inspired. 

Fairmount Water Works

Located just behind the Philadelphia Museum of Art, this location has it all from waterfront views to European architecture. Engagement sessions here incorporate the impressive variety of scenery in the surrounding area. With intimate moments in the gazebo or sweeping views of the city, I love this engagement photo location for its historic, yet romantic feel.

Engagement Photoshoot Locations Near Philadelphia

Longwood Gardens

Situated between Philadelphia and Lancaster, this botanical garden boasts over 1,000 acres of manicured greenery and stunning architecture. Adorned with stretching fountains, the setting lends itself to timeless imagery with a refreshing appeal. With a variety of backdrops to choose from —including vast flowering gardens, lush conservatories, an open-air theater, and enchanting gazebos — your engagement photos here will completely transport you. 

Princeton University

As the fourth-oldest university in the country (not to mention, one of the most prestigious), Princeton and its grounds have an almost indescribable air about them. The centuries of history and exclusive society — that this university is known for — create an elevated, yet charming atmosphere. In the autumn months, the grounds are completely transformed by vibrant fall foliage that only emphasizes the graceful architecture.

Cape May

Found on New Jersey’s Cape May Peninsula, this picturesque town embodies the easygoing, yet elegant lifestyle of a seaside town in New England. Loved for its Victorian-style estates and walkable city center, you’ll feel completely immersed in the scenery around you. At this engagement photoshoot location, you’ll get both charming architecture and beachfront views. What more could you ask for?

More engagement photoshoot locations in Philadelphia

Technically these aren’t in Philadelphia, but are close by!

1. Parque at Ridley Creek
2. Central Park
3. Monmouth University
4. Hoboken
5. Cross Estate Gardens

Engagement pictures in Philadelphia

Planning your engagement photos in Philadelphia?

As a Philadelphia wedding photographer, these are some of my favorite locations to capture the unique excitement of your engagement within the distinct ambiance of this city. I hope you’ll find one you love as much as I do. But, there are so many more in my back pocket. Let’s connect to find which Philadelphia engagement photo location fits your story, and then capture it with a fine art style.

Notes on finding an engagement photographer in Philadelphia

Keep in mind that most photographers, including myself, offer complimentary engagement photos with wedding photography. Why? It’s the perfect opportunity to establish a level of trust and comfort far ahead of the wedding day. Your engagement and wedding photos will also better complement each other stylistically. Plus, your photographer can use that time to better understand your preferences and even your favorite poses to tailor the wedding photography experience to better fit your personalities.