19 Perfect Spots Around Philly for Summer Engagement Photos

Ah, engagement photos. Though not everyone is a fan of the concept, we here at PW actually quite like the idea of having beautiful, quality photos of you and your S.O. wearing clothes that are not your wedding-day attire. (It’s nice to look like your normal selves while you’re in love, right?) If you got engaged during the winter or spring—Congrats, BTW! How can we help you plan?)—a summer engagement photo shoot is probably on your mind. To help you brainstorm ideas, we asked area wedding photographers for their favorite spots for warm-weather engagement sessions around Philadelphia. Their answers did not disappoint.

Longwood Gardens

Photograph by Redfield Photography

“There’s an incredible variety of photogenic locations no matter the time of year. If your engagement shoot is in the summer, choose a non-peak day for cheaper tickets and an evening the park is open late to shoot during golden hour.” — Redfield Photography

Bowman’s Hill Wild Flower Preserve

Photograph by AGP Collective

“I discovered this location in Bucks County when my fiancé and I were looking for a wedding venue. I absolutely love the pond area, and the botanicals cannot be beat! It’s like a less manicured, more natural alternative to Longwood Gardens.” — AGP Collective

Neighborhood Spots

Photograph by Redfield Photography

“Incorporating your favorite park, coffee shop, activity, etc. helps make your engagement shoot even more personal. We love tagging along to capture the things you love to do with your fiancé. ” — Redfield Photography. [Editor’s Note: This photo was taken at what is now The Rail Park, before it was converted.]

Doylestown

Photograph by Grace + Ardor Photography

“Doylestown, a historic and beautifully-preserved town that’s easily walkable, is just 45 minutes outside of the city. You’re sure to be uninterrupted for your session, with the quaint streets all to yourself.” — Grace + Ardor Photography

Kelly Drive

Photograph by Maria Mack Photography

“There are so many beautiful lush spots all up and down Kelly Drive, it makes it ideal for an engagement session.” — Maria Mack Photography

Greensgrow Farms

Photograph by M2 Photography.

“One of our favorite spots in Philly is Greensgrow farm in Kensington. This location should always be treated with incredible respect and prior permission should always be granted before shooting at this location.” — M2 Photography

Terrain

Photograph by Dyanna LaMora Photography

“For the outdoorsy couple, take a 35 minute drive outside the city for an engagement session at Terrain, in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania. Before or after your session, grab a coffee or a meal at Terrain’s Garden Cafe, and do a little shopping at its indoor/outdoor store, which sells mainly plants, garden supplies, and home and outdoor living goods.” — Dyanna LaMora Photograph

Kirkwood Preserve

Photograph by Pat Robinson Photography

“One of the most scenic spots in the area, and it’s only a 30 minute drive from Philly.  The area looks best at the end of summer and early fall.  The grass is overgrown and the trees are still full. Sunset is perfect but it goes fast behind the hills.” — Pat Robinson Photography

Swann Memorial Fountain

Photo by Tara Beth Photography

Suggested by Tara Beth Photography, the fountain at Logan Circle makes for some beautifully dramatic portraiture. Added bonus: If it gets too hot, you can jump into the fountain and cool off.

Fishtown Murals

Photograph by Peach Plum Pear Photography

“For couples that are into photos with an urban vibe, Fishtown is a cool backdrop for your engagement photos. The neighborhood has plenty of character and interesting colors and textures. The wall of murals by multiple Philly artists under the El is one of my favorite spots!” — Peach Plum Pear Photography

Wissahickon Valley Park

Photograph by Emily Wren Photography

“With seven miles of creek flowing through woodlands and dramatic rock outcroppings, we can experience the wilds of Pennsylvania right in our own backyard at the Wissahickon!” — Emily Wren Photography

Fitler Square

Photograph by Viva Love Photography

“The last hidden neighborhood in Philly, there are tiny alleyways and cobblestone streets around every corner. This is iconic Philly without any tourists!” — Viva Love Photography

Bushkill Falls

Photograph by Ashley Gerrity Photography

“If a couple isn’t afraid to spend a little time on the road heading out of the city, Bushkill Falls cannot be topped for beautiful natural scenery that is a perfect backdrop for engagement shoots. Comfortable shoes are a must have, since part of the fun is tracking along a several-mile hike!” — Ashley Gerrity Photography

The Beach

Photograph by Sarah DiCicco Photography

“Nothing says love and warmth more than sun-filled beach engagement portraits. So many of our couples met at the shore or grew up vacationing there. This way they can include their love for the shore, even though they might be choosing a Center City venue for the wedding.” — Sarah DiCicco Photography. [Editor’s Note: This shoot took place between 34th and 35th Streets at Longport Beach in Absecon, New Jersey.]

Washington Square Park 

Photograph by Philip Gabriel Photography

“Washington Square Park is a hidden gem in the heart of Philadelphia. In the summer, it’s the perfect combination of luscious green trees and stunning architecture which makes it an ideal spot for summer engagement photos.” — Philip Gabriel Photography

Fishtown

Photograph by Pat Furey Photography

“Lots of street art in combination with the upscale mix of Fishtown’s new residents blending in amongst the locals, we always have a good time wandering around our neighborhood with our couples.” — Pat Furey Photography

Material Culture

Photograph by AGP Collective

“Not just for weddings, the textures and colors of this space make it a colorful and unique setting for engagement photos. Because the store will remain open during your shoot, be sure your client is comfortable in front of an audience.” — AGP Collective

Pop-Up Beer Gardens (Like Independence Beer Garden)

Photograph by Ashley Gerrity Photography

“The Summer pop up beer gardens are a unique spot for some fun-loving couples! Whether it’s a shot from outside with all of the colorful, unique furniture and signage, a shot featuring some JENGA and a drink, a shot against a traditional brick wall, or a shot sneaking through all of the beautiful greenery, there is something for all styles!” — Ashley Gerrity Photography

Farms

Photograph by Sarah DiCicco Photography

“I have become friendly with local farmers, who have allowed me to pay them in exchange for running around on their grounds.” — Sarah DiCicco Photography. [Editor’s Note: This photo shoot took place on a private farm in Berks County.]

RELATED: 5 Gorgeous Philly Spots for Fall Engagement Photos

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