Firstly, congratulations on your engagement!
We get asked this question a lot: What are our favorite Seattle locations to take engagement photos?
While our top favorite will always be your home because we’re into not just making photos, but also authentic, meaningful memories, we know that an iconic Seattle location for engagement photos is irresistible.
Here are our Favorite Seattle engagement photo locations. Some of these will be on the Eastside across the 520 and some will take some driving to the Greater Puget Sound regions.
Pioneer Square/Occidental Park
A quintessential fave with our couples who like the urban look and feel of downtown Seattle with our red brick alleyways and grungy atmosphere, reminiscent of another time and place. Did you know that Pioneer Square is Seattle’s oldest neighborhood? It dates to 1852. Known for its Romanesque Revival architecture, it features historic buildings, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife, showcasing the city’s cultural heritage.
Juanita Bay Park in Kirkland
Juanita Bay Park is one of my faves because it’s not very busy during the week, has some water views, some tall summer grass if we time it right (before park services mow it!), a beautiful willow and peaceful surroundings. This park actually spans 110 acres and features wetlands, wildlife habitats, and scenic boardwalks. Historically farmland, it now offers birdwatching, trails, and educational programs.
Washington Park Arboretum
Beautiful anytime of the year for many different reasons, the Washington Park Arboretum is probably my in my top three and it’s mostly because I love a good garden and flowers and just nature. This park spans 230 acres and showcases diverse plant collections from around the world. Jointly managed by the University of Washington and the city, its highlights include the iconic Azalea Way, Japanese Garden, and extensive walking trails, making it a botanical treasure and urban oasis.
Eagle Falls
This was our secret many years ago but the secret’s out. We stumbled upon this location just driving by somewhere and try not to overuse it. Eagle Falls on the South Fork Skykomish River in Washington offers stunning cascades and crystal-clear pools, making it a popular destination for hiking, swimming, and cliff jumping. Surrounded by lush, forested landscapes, the falls provide a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and natural beauty in the Pacific Northwest.
Golden Gardens Park
This one’s a no-brainer although, as with every fave spot, we try to use Golden Gardens Park sparingly. This popular beach spans 87 acres along Puget Sound. Known for its sandy beaches, tidal pools, and scenic views, it offers picnic areas, hiking trails, and a marina. Historically a popular spot for sunbathing and recreation, it remains a cherished urban retreat for all ages.
Olympic Sculpture Park
This nine-acre green space that transformed an industrial site into an outdoor art museum is a fave for our city dwelling couples who want to show off our quintessential Sound and city views. Managed by the Seattle Art Museum, the Olympic Sculpture Park features iconic sculptures, walking paths, and stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, blending art with nature seamlessly.
Discovery Park
This is probably the top fave among couples for obvious reasons because Discovery Park is gorgeous and has so many features. As Seattle’s largest green space spanning 534 acres on the Magnolia Bluff, Discovery Park was established in 1973. It offers diverse landscapes including forests, meadows and beaches, including the historic West Point Lighthouse.
Lincoln Park
Located in one of my favorite places in Seattle – West Seattle – Lincoln Park spans 135 acres along Puget Sound in West Seattle. Known for its old-growth forests, rugged coastline, and scenic walking trails, the park features picnic areas, sports fields, and the outdoor Colman Pool. It offers diverse recreational opportunities and stunning waterfront views.
Mukilteo Lighthouse Park
Built in 1906, this is an iconic destination on this side of the Sound. Spanning 12 acres, the Mukilteo Lighthouse Park offers scenic waterfront views, picnic areas, and a boat launch. The lighthouse, now a museum, provides a glimpse into maritime history. The park is a popular spot for beachcombing and watching ferries.
Bellevue Botanical Gardens
The Bellevue Botanical Gardens requires a fee for photography about a month in advance, so make sure to get this sorted ahead of time. Spanning 53 acres, this park features diverse gardens, including a rock garden, Japanese Yao Garden and a vibrant perennial border. The garden emphasizes horticultural education and conservation, offering walking trails, seasonal events, and workshops, making it a serene and educational urban sanctuary.
Finally – we mentioned this at the beginning of this blog post – our favorite engagement photos spot will always be your home. It’s unique, it has meaning for you, it may be your first home together and one day, you may move away from it which makes these photos precious.
We hope you’ve found this article useful! Still looking for an engagement or wedding photographer? Hit us up!
All the best on your wedding planning, friends!
