A Guide to Hudson Valley Engagement Locations

The Hudson Valley is home to so many hidden gems that make picture-perfect location for an engagement photo session. From casual to scenic to romantic, check out some of our favorite picks below!

Town of Beacon

With charming brick buildings, storefronts and nearby parks, the Town of Beacon is the perfect setting for a cute and casual engagement session. Stop by one of their bakeries or coffee shop for a delicious prop in your photos.

Mohonk Preserve, New Paltz

Some of the best fall views are in the Hudson Valley (but we may be biased!). For a cozy autumnal engagement session with vibrant mountains as your background visit Mohonk Preserve, New Paltz.

Stone Crop Garden, Cold Spring

For that dreamy sunlit lush green house engagement session try Stone Crop Garden in Cold Spring. The gardens comprise of a diverse collection of gardens like woodland and water gardens, a grass garden, raised alpine stone beds, cliff rock gardens, and an enclosed English-style flower garden. Additional features include a Conservatory, display Alpine House, Pit House. (session fee/permit is required)

Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt, Hyde Park

Home to the 32nd president of the United States, Franklin D. Roosevelt, this historic site has a variety of photogenic spots for your upcoming session. Hit the glass greenhouse for a light an airy feel, or head to the hills on the property for a more scenic shot. Of course you can’t forget about the stone home itself with vibrant shutters and wall greenery.

Awosting Falls at Lake Minnewaska State Park, New Paltz

With so many great scenic photo ops at Lake Minnewaska, we can help narrow it down by recommending Awosting Falls! A quick 5 minute walk from the lower parking lot, the striking stone falls makes a romantic backdrop for your engagement session that’s worth the walk. Surrounded with plush greenery, it’s the perfect place for capturing those upstate vibes.

Minnewaska State Park, New Paltz

Situated on the dramatic Shawangunk Mountain ridge, which rises more than 2,000 feet above sea level and is surrounded by rugged, rocky terrain, Lake Minnewaska is a crowd favorite for a reason! Surrounded by scenic views, this location makes for a beautiful outdoor session.

Ashokan Reservoir

Another great picturesque location for your upcoming session is Ashokan Reservoir. With panoramic views of the reservoir and Catskill Mountains, the vibrant landscape makes a great background for scenic upstate photos.

Blithewood Gardens, Annandale-on-Hudson

The romantic walled Italianate gardens at Blithewood Garden on Bard College Campus is another idyllic location for photos. Located on a steeply sloping bluff approximately 130 feet above the Hudson River, every corner of this garden is equally charming and intimate.

Vineyards/ Nostrano Vineyards, Milton

Whether your looking to have a session in the spring, summer or fall, vineyards are always a great options! Photos of you and your honey walking through the fields, vines or beautiful greenery makes for a romantic engagement session. Plus, you can end your day by hitting the tasting room and enjoying a fresh glass of wine!

Looking for a natural yet artistic wedding photographer? Let’s chat about capturing your day in the upcoming season, message me here.