June 6, 2023
As a photographer, I love getting to explore Northern VA and finding stunning backdrops to capture love stories on. This state has so many incredible and breathtaking spots to take pictures at! I feel so blessed to live in such a beautiful place with so many wonderful places to see. So, over the years of exploring and shooting in these locations, I’ve put together a collection of my go-to spots.
Without further ado…here are my top 7 Northern Virginia engagement session locations!
1. Oatlands Historic House
This is a beautiful historic house and garden located in Leesburg, VA. There is an abundance of picture spots, you’ll never run out of dreamy and romantic shots. Below are some snapshots of Nate + Olivia’s engagement session I did there, and it was a total dream! So, if you’re looking for somewhere with a historic feel and old charm, mixed with classic romance, this is the spot for you!
2. Manassas Battlefield Park
With several locations to explore, Battlefield Park is a perfect backdrop to truly make your own. This is such a simple yet gorgeous backdrop that you can really make it unique to your shoot. You can bring your own personal twist into the vast fields of tall grass by either walking/running through the fields, posing in the middle of the field, or like the couple below, having a picnic in front of it!
3. Old Town Alexandria
This is a stunning old town with both cobblestone streets and waterfront views. There is a ton of variety when shooting here, so if you’re going for a slight city vibe but with a historical feel this is perfect for you! Below I have some pictures from a session I did there that really show the variety and overall charm of photographing in Old Town Alexandria.
4. Sky Meadows State Park
Sky Meadows State Park is an incredible park with breathtaking mountain views. It also has views of rolling hills and open fields, and lush grass and greenery all around. I highly recommend shooting here at golden hour, the warm glow mixed with the depth of the mountains behind is so beautiful and special. So, if you want a venue that feels really romantic and truly showcases you and your partner, check out Sky Meadows State Park!
5. State Arboretum of Virginia
This is truly a hidden gem… the State Arboretum of Virginia is an incredible sight with different backdrops of gardens, lush trees, and an old historical house. Through the forest, you can see the sun set and rise beautifully, making it perfect for sunrise/sunset sessions. It has a very grand and elegant, yet also charming feeling to it.
6. Shenandoah Mountain
The Shenandoah mountains are always a stunning backdrop and a super fun session experience! Whether you’re ready for a hike or just sitting at the overlooks, the beauty truly shines through and gives you a stunning scene for your time together. It has such a dreamy and magical vibe that you can so easily get lost in the beauty of the moment. Definitely perfect for an engagement session!
7. Great Falls
The Great Falls is truly a beautiful park with breathtaking views. The magnificent falls are gorgeous for any session, below is an engagement session I did and I’m so obsessed. The colors, the depth, and everything about this park sets the scene for an incredible gallery.
Hopefully, my list of Northern Virginia engagement session locations is helpful when picking your next picture spot! To see more from my portfolio, click here. For more of my blog posts, click here. And to book your own amazing session, click here, I can’t wait to hear your vision!
Kind Words
“My husband and I absolutely loved working with Sam as our engagement and wedding photographer! She made us feel comfortable in front of the camera, and we enjoyed her fun, easygoing personality. We love her style, use of natural light, and unposed photos. Sam helped us create a wedding day timeline and worked really well alongside our planner. Our wedding photos turned out amazing and we are so excited to share them with our friends and family. Thank you, Sam!!” -Rachel
