The Five Best Locations to Take Your Engagement Photos in NC (From a Wedding Photographer)

If you're a recently engaged couple in NC looking to take your engagement photos, you're in luck! Our gorgeous state has a whole host of beautiful locations to photograph your love story. 

As a North Carolina-based wedding photographer, I’ve been lucky enough to shoot couples in so many stunning locations all over the world, but my home state continues to be a top contender for some of the most cinematic views I’ve come across.

Whether you're drawn to natural landscapes, coastal views, city scapes or something more personal, choosing the right location plays a big role in how your photos turn out. Below are five of my favorite locations to photograph engagement sessions across NC:

*and a bonus location that might surprise you!

1. Duke Gardens | Durham, NC

Duke Gardens is one of those locations that just photographs beautifully every time. The variety in backdrops allows your gallery to feel dynamic and fresh, giving you a lot of versatility in your photos.

Engagement sessions should capture the love and connection between you and your partner, and Duke Gardens makes that easy. Walking along winding paths, sharing a quiet moment by the water, or standing beneath a canopy of weeping willows all add to the romantic feel.

If you are looking for a romantic backdrop and rich green tones, this is a great spot for you.

2. Kure Beach | Kure Beach, NC

There’s nothing quite like golden hour portraits at the beach, and North Carolina has some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. This setting also allows you to embrace your playfulness, jumping into the water together, running on the beach; these kinds of authentic moments add movement and a story to your photos that really brings them to life.

For couples who feel connected to the coast, Kure Beach offers a quieter and more relaxed alternative to some of North Carolina’s more crowded coastal areas. Located just south of Wilmington, it has open skies, gentle dunes, and incredible trees.

If North Carolina beaches call to you and you’re not afraid of getting a little wet, this is a perfect choice.

3. Downtown Raleigh or Durham | City Streets & Your Favorite Bar or Café

For couples who love city life, downtown Raleigh or Durham can offer a vibrant backdrop. Whether it’s the streets you walk together, the bar where you first met, or the café that’s become your weekend ritual, these everyday places often hold the most personal significance and create a cinematic atmosphere. Not to mention: getting a shot in front of your city's skyline is always a crowd-pleaser.

If you’re a couple that thrives in the rustle and bustle of a city, this is a great pick for you.

4. Eno River State Park | Durham, NC

Eno River State Park is one of the most versatile outdoor engagement photo locations in North Carolina. With dense tree lines, flowing water, footbridges, and shaded trails, it offers a wide variety of looks without having to travel far if you’re based in the Triangle.

In the fall, this location becomes especially beautiful. The leaves shift to rich tones of amber, gold, and deep red, providing a warm and natural color palette that photographs incredibly well. The quiet trails and peaceful river areas help set a tone for candid moments and easy conversation.

If you’re drawn to the changing seasons and want something a bit more woodsy and grounded, Eno is a great choice.

5. Beacon Heights | Blue Ridge Parkway, NC

Beacon Heights offers one of the most breathtaking mountain views in the state, with a short and manageable hike that leads to an expansive, rocky overlook. Located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway near Linville, this location gives you sweeping views of the Pisgah National Forest and distant ridgelines.

For couples looking for something more adventurous and dramatic, this location has everything: bold scenery, natural textures, and stunning lighting at sunrise and sunset.

For the couples that value nature and love scenic mountain views, this location is perfect.

Bonus: At Home | Wherever You Are

Sometimes the best location is the one you create. There is something intimate about photographing people in their own space. Whether that looks like cooking in the kitchen, playing music in the living room, or simply sitting on the front porch, these sessions tell a story that’s specific to you.

The comfort of being in your own environment often leads to more natural scenes and subtle, quiet moments. It also creates a time capsule of the life you’re building together in the months leading up to your wedding.

This type of session is perfect for couples looking for a relaxed, documentary approach with a deep focus on authenticity and intimacy.

Final Thoughts

As a wedding and engagement photographer in North Carolina, I focus on creating work that feels intentional, cinematic, and honest. Choosing a location that reflects your relationship is one of the most important steps in the process. Whether it's a place with shared meaning, a scenic outdoor space, or simply the comfort of home, these locations help shape the story we tell in your photos. 

If you’re looking for a North Carolina-based wedding photographer who knows all the best spots to capture your love story, I’d love to chat about how we can make your vision a reality.

The Hinojosas' Luxury Wedding at Elkins Estate

This incredible wedding film was made by Visual Rose

 A Wedding Day Straight Out of a FairyTale

As a wedding photographer, I’ve had the pleasure of capturing countless beautiful celebrations, but every so often, a wedding sticks with you for reasons beyond just the pictures. The Hinojosas' wedding is one of those. From the moment we arrived at Elkins Estate, I knew we were in for something truly special. The venue’s timeless elegance, its ornate architecture, grand staircases, and lush grounds provided the perfect backdrop for this stunning celebration. There’s something about Elkins Estate that makes it feel like a living, breathing fairy tale, and it perfectly complemented the couple’s love story. From the warm welcome party on the tennis courts to the intimate ceremony and unforgettable reception, this wedding was a beautiful blend of personal moments and grandeur.

The Welcome Party

The weekend kicked off with a casual, fun-spirited welcome event at Huntingdon Valley Country Club, appropriately dubbed the “Racquets Rendezvous.” Phil, a former D1 tennis player, and Lauren, who picked up the sport early in their relationship, and guests joined them for some friendly competition on the court. It was the perfect icebreaker: sunshine, laughter, and a surprise ice cream social courtesy of Lauren’s best friend. A relaxed start to what would become an incredibly thoughtful and elegant wedding weekend.

Bridal Suite Moments

Lauren got ready in one of the most breathtaking bridal suites I’ve ever photographed. Elkins Estate is known for its historic charm, but the suite was truly something special. Gilded mirrors, a hand-painted ceiling that looked like it belonged in a Renaissance museum, and soft, natural light streaming in from tall arched windows. Her gown, a timeless design with intricate lace and a dramatic silhouette, was nothing short of stunning. There was a calm excitement as Lauren stepped into the dress, and the moment she turned to face the mirror was one of those quiet, unforgettable highlights.

Groom Preparations

Phil got ready on the opposite side of the estate, surrounded by close friends and family. His side of the morning was laid-back and full of energy: jokes, toasts, a little music. There’s something about the contrast between the two prep spaces that always tells a story. Both sides were filled with anticipation, but in such different ways.

Portraits at Elkins Estate

Once ready, Lauren and Phil shared a private first look on the estate’s terrace. It was understated and emotional, with the architecture of Elkins Estate framing every moment effortlessly. From there, we explored the grounds for portraits. Stone steps, overgrown ivy, grand balconies, every corner felt like a painting. This venue makes photographing couples feel like capturing scenes from a period film, and Lauren and Phil looked completely at home in it.

An Intimate Ceremony

The ceremony took place at Immaculate Conception Church in Jenkintown, a space that matched the elegance of the day with its rich wood tones and classic architecture. It was a heartfelt service, grounded in tradition, and witnessed by their closest family and friends.

A Reception to Remember

Back at Elkins Estate, cocktail hour opened with a standout raw bar and an impressive ice sculpture centerpiece. Inside the reception hall, a black watch tartan-inspired palette added richness and warmth to the space without overpowering its ornate design.

A 13-piece band brought energy and sophistication to the evening, seamlessly guiding the flow from dinner to dancing. Later in the night, the celebration moved to the music room for a DJ set. Think chandeliers, velvet, and a packed dance floor that didn’t wind down until the early hours.

One especially moving moment: Lauren surprised Phil by singing “Make You Feel My Love,” a tribute to her parents, who were celebrating their 33rd wedding anniversary that same day. Her father had once serenaded her mother with that very song on their wedding nigh, it was a beautiful, full-circle moment.

Guests ended the night with personalized favors, including decoupage oyster shell ornaments and bottles of homemade limoncello, tying everything back to the couple’s shared traditions and attention to detail.

Final Thoughts & Vendors

Phillip and Lauren’s wedding at Elkins Estate was the perfect blend of timeless elegance and personal touches, set against one of the most breathtaking backdrops on the East Coast. It was a true joy to capture every moment of their unforgettable celebration.

If you are planning your wedding and looking for a photographer to capture your day with the same care, artistry, and attention to detail, I would love to connect. Reach out to start the conversation, I can't wait to hear your story.

Vendor Team
Photography: @dioramedia
Videography: @visualrosefilms
Venue: @elkinsestate
Planner: @sammydigeorge
Florals: @petals_lane_inc
Makeup: @glambydevyn
Hair: @belleamiestudio
Bridal Boutique: @nicole_bridal
Dress Designer: @ritavinieris
Band: @cheerstheband
DJ: @deejayfranknitty
Spray Tan: @HoneyGlowStudio_

Why Duke Gardens is the PERFECT Place for Your Engagement Photos

You've just got engaged and want to share it with the world by booking your engagement photography session. Now all that's left is to choose where. For my couples based in North Carolina, there is one location I keep coming back to, and it's Duke Gardens. I've captured so many great moments there and they always feel like they belong in a movie. The gardens have everything you need for a romantic photography location, and here's why:

A Natural Backdrop with Great Lighting

Duke Gardens is full of greenery, flower beds, and water features that make for an ideal setting. The gardens span 55 acres and have four distinct sections, each with its own look and feel. Around golden hour the light shines through the trees and greenery, adding a romantic softness to the final look. The natural light and scenic background help set the scene for some beautiful cinematic images. 

Plenty of Locations for a Variety of Shots

One of the best things about Duke Gardens is the range of backdrops you can use. From the koi pond in the Asiatic Arboretum to the Italian-style terraces, there are plenty of options. This means you can get a diverse set of photos without needing to visit multiple locations. Whether you need shots for save-the-dates, holiday cards, or framed prints, you’ll have a variety of images to choose from in just one session.

A Naturally Romantic Atmosphere

Engagement sessions should capture the love and connection between you and your partner, and Duke Gardens makes that easy. Walking along winding paths, sharing a quiet moment by the water, or standing beneath a canopy of weeping willows, it all adds to the romantic feel. I’ve found that this kind of setting helps couples feel relaxed in front of the camera, which leads to more natural and authentic moments.

Convenient, Accessible, and Photographer Approved

Located on Duke University's West Campus and just minutes from downtown Durham, Duke Gardens is a convenient choice for couples in the Triangle area. To shoot here, photographers need to obtain a permit, with pricing varying based on the day and time. Since I’ve photographed here countless times, I’m familiar with the process and can help navigate the details so you can focus on enjoying your engagement session! The well-maintained pathways also make it easy to explore different areas, ensuring a stress-free and scenic experience.

A Great Spot for a Picnic Photo

If you want to add a personal touch to your session, Duke Gardens is a great place for a picnic setup. Bring a blanket, a bottle of wine, and some snacks, and enjoy a relaxed moment while capturing candid shots. The Terrace Gardens provide an especially scenic backdrop for this kind of shoot. A picnic setting brings warmth to your photos and creates space for natural, romantic moments that feel like a real date night.

Final Thoughts

Duke Gardens has everything you need for an engagement photo session: scenic views, a variety of backdrops, and a romantic feel, all in a convenient location. If you're looking for engagement photos that are both timeless and personal, this is the place

If you're ready to book your engagement session and want to work with a photographer who knows all the best spots around the Triangle, lets get in touch! I'd love to bring your wedding photography vision to life!