Image by Maya Lora Photo. 

Deciding to spend forever with your best friend, that’s the easy part. Picking a photo location to kick off your engagement season, that’s where it gets a little more difficult. You want a memorable, intimate, and stunning spot that’ll hold a special place in both of your hearts. And lucky for those in the United States, you don’t have to travel far for engagement photos that go above and beyond. From mountains to beaches, and everything in between—here are our 11 most romantic places for you to nail your engagement photos. 

11 Spots For Epic Engagement Photos

1. Sedona, Arizona 

The red rock formations, incredible weather, and unique hikes are just a few reasons that Sedona is so special. To kick off your engagement the right way, take full advantage of the natural red rock backdrops for your engagement photos. 

For those that want to avoid hiking, look into Bell Rock or the base of Cathedral Rock. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, take on the Devil’s Bridge or Cathedral Rock hikes. You’ll be met with some of the most stunning views when you reach the top—trust us! 

Image by Riss + Steven Photography.

2. Big Sur, California 

A mountain, beach, or waterfall engagement session—why choose one when you could have all three? Big Sur is one of the most beautiful coastlines located off the famous Pacific Coast Highway. The drive to get there is stunning and you’re guaranteed to be met with incredible cliffside ocean views upon arrival. 

3. Joshua Tree, California 

The rigid, neutral rock landscape of Joshua Tree National Park is not what you typically picture when you think of California. That’s what makes this spot the hidden gem of the west coast. Whether you climb the towering rock formations or snap pictures with the bristled Joshua trees, there are sure to be an endless amount of secluded locations that’ll make your engagement photos stand apart. 

4. Cannon Beach, Oregon 

Named one of the most beautiful places in the world by National Geographic, Cannon Beach was a necessary addition to our list. This small town is located on the rigid Oregon coast and is known for their recognizable landmark, Haystack Rock—a breathtaking backdrop worthy of commemorating a love as special as yours. After completing your engagement session, pop some celebratory champagne and cozy up for a beach bonfire. 

5. Acadia National Park, Maine 

Spring, summer, fall, or winter—there really is no bad time to snap engagement photos in Acadia National Park. The best part about this location is the variety of trail options, allowing you to customize your session to the max. 

Want a lakefront photoshoot? Jordan Pond is your place. If you’re searching for mountain top views without the treacherous hike, try out Bubble Rock trail. This easy-to-moderate pathway leads you to the perfect mountain-top spot for a golden-hour session. 

6. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

From wildflower fields in spring to snow-capped mountains in winter, Rocky Mountain National Park is filled with stunning views all year long. For couples that want to avoid hiking, we recommend Lake Lily Loop or driving the Trail Ridge Road—also called the “highway in the sky”, because it’s the highest paved road in the U.S. 

If you’re wanting a more adventurous feel for your epic engagement photos, Dream Lake is your place. Pose in front of the lake with Hallett Peak towering in the background.

Image by Lauren Casino Photography.

7. Pictured Rocks National Park, Michigan

Pictured Rocks National Park is not quite what you’d imagine when you picture the midwest which makes it Michigan’s top hidden gem. From the rigid coastline filled with trees to the crystal blue water, this national park gives us major Cliff of Moher vibes. 

Plus, we can’t think of a better way to kick off your engagement season than capturing photos with Lovers Leap in the background—sounds like good luck to us! 

8. Central Park, New York 

Central Park is the perfect balance of both city and nature vibes. Not to mention it’s a picture perfect location all year round. So whether you’re dreaming of fall foliage with the New York City skyline in the background or a winter wonderland, you’re sure to get it here. Our favorite spots include the Bow Bridge, The Lake, and Bethesda Terrace. 

Image by Lola Mango Photo + Film.

9. Bonneville Salt Flats

Located in the northwestern Utah region the Bonneville Salt Flats are a perfect neutral background because it’s a white salt crust stretching as far as the eye can see. This sandy landscape is unlike anything you’ll see anywhere else in the world, making it a prime engagement photo location. 

Image by Cat Cunningham Photography.

10. Yosemite National Park, California 

Spring, summer, fall, and winter—the Yosemite National Park is fit for engagement photos all year round. This national park is packed with views that can easily be accessed by couples regardless of hiking experience. For an easily accessible location without sacrificing epic views, Cook’s Meadow is the spot for you. It’s the perfect spot for those incredible Half Dome views. If you’re looking to add a bit of adventure to your session, hike up to the iconic ledge at Taft Point. You’ll be glad you did.

Image by Maya Lora Photo.

11. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado 

When you picture Colorado, odds are you picture a rocky mountain landscape. If that’s true for you, then the Great Sand Dunes National Park will throw you for a curve. Located in southern  Colorado you’ll find sand dunes that stretch as far as the eye can go. The soft neutral landscape makes for an ideal engagement photo backdrop—you’re the main focus without sacrificing epic views. 

When you get your epic engagement photos back from your talented photographer, you’ll want to share them with everyone. After pasting them all over your social media platforms it’s time to get your save the dates in the works. To make your decision easy, we’ve rounded up fun and unique save the date options to announce your wedding in style.