Engagement photos are a great way to announce your soon-to-be marriage. I like to view engagement shoots as a trial run. You can work with a wedding photographer and get a feel for the kind of photography style you’d like and if you’d like them to be the photographer at your wedding. If you’re camera-shy, these photo shoots allow you to get comfortable with the camera under the direction of a professional. The point of engagement photos is to capture the excitement you feel with your partner and share your intention to wed with others. 

Deciding to get engagement photos done is one thing. Finding a location to take them is another. Luckily, Charlotte has no shortage of beautiful settings for your engagement photoshoot. From outdoorsy and adventurous to refined and elegant, there’s a perfect place for every couple. Below are my favorite locations to shoot engagement photos, all at low to no cost. Before deciding on a location for photos, scope out the area first to ensure it’s the setting you’re looking for. Keep reading to see my top four Charlotte engagement session locations. 

Top 4 Places in Charlotte for an Engagement Photoshoot

1. McGill Rose Garden 

This romantic rose garden strikes the perfect balance of natural and elegant. There are rows of roses and flowers, greenery, and trees. The lights draping across trees lend a rustic feel and provide endless photo opportunities. There is no cost to tour the garden. It’s recommended to get in touch with staff and let them know you plan to take photos. Before planning a photoshoot, check their website here for hours and closures, as they do close for weddings. 

2. Camp North End

Camp North End is brimming with artistic murals and an eclectic vibe. There is something around every corner of this setting which lends itself to a unique photoshoot. If you and your partner love a night out on the town or experiencing new things, this location is perfect for capturing that energy. The modern charm mixed with the artistic feel makes for one-of-a-kind photos.

3. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

The Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is a modern and breathtaking setting perfect for Charlotte engagement photoshoots. There are indoor and outdoor photo opportunities with several different flowers and plants. It’s romantic and natural and has a bit of modern charm. As spring and summer bring warmer weather, consider taking outdoor photos in the perennial gardens. Be sure to check their website for any event closures. There is a small cost to getting in the garden, but it’s worth it for the outstanding photos. 

4. Crowders Mountain 

If you and your partner love to get outside, experience new things, or appreciate the nature in Charlotte, then consider taking photos at Crowders Mountain. The mountain provides endless settings, from the summit to dense forests. Consider visiting during sunset for a romantic feel to your photos. No matter the trail or location you choose, you’ll get an incredible bonding experience (and workout!) with your partner and photographer as you look over the edge to see rolling hills and lush forests.

Engagement photos are an excellent opportunity to share your engagement with family and friends. These photos capture the anticipation of your marriage and the joy of your union. Engagement shoots may be the only professional photos you have with your partner until your wedding, so it’s important to have photos you like on hand. Think Christmas cards, social media posts, or physical prints in your home. 

When choosing a place for your photos, find somewhere you and your partner enjoy and fondly look back on. Choosing a venue is almost as important as choosing a photographer. Engagement photoshoots allow you to get a feel for different photographers’ style, work with them, and understand what you’re looking for in a photographer. Charlotte is full of so many opportunities for engagement photos. If you have any other suggestions or you’re looking to get started with engagement photos, contact me today to get started. We’ll find the perfect place for your engagement shoot, and I’ll be sure to capture the excitement you’re feeling with your partner. 

About Harry McLaughlin Photography

I take pride in creating a fun environment and connecting with vendors so that everything can run smoothly on your big day. I’ll be with you every step of the way. From engagement shoots to day-of photos, you can rest easy knowing I’ll give you the photos you’ve always dreamed of. When you book with me, you’ll get a custom experience unlike any other. Let’s create special moments together! Fill out this form to get started.