Five Best Hudson Valley Locations for Engagement Photos

Congratulations! You’re engaged, and now your race to the altar has begun. As a newly engaged couple, the wedding planning process can be overwhelming. Your to-do list is extensive, from invites and floral arrangements to site tours of Hudson Valley wedding venues. So adding another task may be the last thing on your mind. However, don’t forget about your engagement shoot! 

Capturing sweet moments with your partner is a fun treat (and break!) from your endless wedding decisions. So set aside time to coordinate outfits and select the right wedding photographer. Then, create a list of your favorite Hudson Valley locations and think about when you want to have your photoshoot. 

If you need some ideas, here are five stunning Hudson Valley destinations to include in your engagement shot list!

Town of Beacon

With many natural sites, Beacon has everything you need for a beautiful photoshoot. Consider exploring Mount Beacon Park for excellent mountain views. The summit provides a panoramic vista of the Hudson Highlands and the Catskill Mountains. And if you go on a clear day, your wedding photographer can capture Manhattan and Albany in the background. As for an evergreen aesthetic, you can never go wrong with the Appalachian Trail.  

In the heart of Dutchess County, Beacon also offers outdoor recreational parks and historical landmarks, like the Walkway Over the Hudson, Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site, and the Hudson’s Long Dock Park. 

Stonecrop Gardens

Reopening in April, Stonecrop Gardens spans 15 acres of woodlands, gardens, plants, and alpine stone beds. Couples will love the diversity of colors and textures from each garden, breathing life into their engagement photos. The cliff rock and English-style flower gardens are a must for unique scenery.

The Conservatory also makes a stunning backdrop with its white frame and glass design. So, make sure to capture some shots beside the pond for a magical aesthetic. 

Hyde Park, Franklin Roosevelt’s Home  

Are you a fan of historical sites? If so, Franklin Roosevelt’s home is the perfect spot for your engagement shoot. The estate includes the first Presidential Library, trails, and gardens. The home’s grand entrance is enough to sweep you off your feet with columns, nineteenth-century windows, and ornamental moldings. Each detail pays homage to its time. Consider capturing photos in the horse stable for a rustic theme or in front of the estate for a touch of historic charm.

Note: Flash photography is not allowed inside the home, so stick with exterior shots for your backdrop.

Minnewaska State Park

Waterfalls, crystal lakes, and forests are some of the many highlights of Minnewaska State Park. Surrounded by rocky terrain, this park sits on the Shawangunk Mountain ridge, and its dramatic waterfalls will take your breath away. However, the clear streams, cliffs, and views are also worth noting. Consider adding this destination to your shot list for a timeless landscape. Minnewaska is open from 9-5 pm, so make sure to pin this on your map and see it for yourself.

Blithewood Gardens

Designed in 1903, Blithewood Gardens is a 45-acre walled Italianate garden on the Bard College campus. Situated in the Hudson River National Historic Landmark district, it offers magnificent views of the Catskill Mountains and Hudson River. Blithewood also contains ten different gardens, from the Woodland and Chinese Garden to the Elizabethan Knot Garden. Couples will appreciate the variety in scenery and the Italian-style architecture, transporting visitors back in time. Be sure to check this location out!  

You’ve created an engagement shot list, so what’s next?

Hudson Valley is home to many scenic backdrops. Now that you have a few destinations in mind, you can share them with your wedding photographer and capture intimate moments celebrating your love. And if you enjoyed your experience, you may feel inspired to revisit the locations in the future for a fun date!
After you finalize your list, it’s time to secure a Hudson Valley reception hall for your special day. So reach out today to start your wedding planning with Hudson Valley Weddings at The Hill. Our team is excited to learn more about your vision and help you bring it to life!