10 BEST BOSTON ENGAGEMENT SESSION LOCATIONS
Are you a recently engaged couple in Boston? Looking to plan an engagement session and looking for the ideal location that will express your style as well as your your hometown? Although an important part of the wedding planning process, an engagement session can be a very intimidating event to plan properly. The city of Boston offers countless opportunities to provide a backdrop for your romantic couple's portrait session. Whether you are looking for a location that shows off the vast beauty of the Atlantic Ocean, the sophistication of downtown urban living, or even the surprising number of nature themed spots, Boston has you covered. Furthermore, please be sure to read my other article on Getting the most out of your engagement session. It has many additional bits of advice and help.
Here is a list of some of my favorite Boston Engagement Session Locations.
- Fan Pier Park
- The Boston Public Garden
- The North End
- Christopher Columbus Park
- The Boston Museum of Science
- Fenway Park
- Castle Island
- Town of Hull, MA
- Beacon Hill Neighborhood
- The Arnold Arboretum,
Fan Pier Park
A view of the harbor and the city
1 Courthouse Way, Boston, MA 02210
I'd like to start this list out with my absolute favorite spot in the entire City of Boston for capturing portraits. Fan Pier Park, is my favorite for a couple of reasons. First and foremost, as a Midwestern, I'm always fascinated with the ocean and Fan Pier Park provides an excellent view of both Boston harbor and the ocean in general. The park has sort of a curved shaped to it so you can stand in one position and pose in front of the skyline and then turn around and pose in front of the open ocean and I love that versatility. Therefore you have one location where you can see the majestic Boston skyline with numerous high-rise buildings and notable landmarks in the background as well as ones which show off the water, reflections, and a large amount of Boat traffic. As an added bonus often times this boat traffic includes the tall, epic, mast sailing ships.
There are additional benefits to this location as well. This park works well for portrait any time of the year. Whether your engagement portrait session is in the spring, summer, fall, or winter, the view will be epic and unforgettable. Although you will want to dress accordingly for the cooler months as any cold weather is more sever this close to the water. Furthermore, the location works well most hours of the day, although it really shines well at dusk. The trick is to get there just after the sunsets, when all the lights turn on in the buildings.
Click here to see some of my Engagement and Wedding Photography work at Fan Pier Park:
I would highly recommend taking ten minutes to read my in depth summery & review of Fan Pier Park. It includes a more detailed description of the park, a list of all the special spots for the most amazing an unique portraits, as well as other useful bits of information such as the best times of day to schedule your session, accessibility, parking, and other details.
The Boston Public Garden
America's first city park
Boston, MA
I love the Boston public garden in the middle of downtown Boston for some many reasons. First and foremost is that the park has so many different opportunities for portraits. There is a variety of different spaces all along the park that we can use to create different images. There is a large pond with a bridge and reflecting pools, there are meandering pathways, there are countless different types of trees that all provide amazing opportunities for unique portraits. My favorite spot in the park is the footbridge over the lagoon. It is a Victorian structure that blends nicely with both the trees of the park as well as the architecture of the city. There's so many different ways I can place couples on top of in front of and around this bridge and each time it'll result in unique images.
Additionally the Public Garden is favorite stop of mine for a few practical reasons as well. The park is very large. Even on a busy, crowded, summer day, we can easily find space for pose and capture portraits. Furthermore, the park looks amazing all year around. From spring through autumn the flowers and trees are an inspiring sight and excellent background for portraits. Then, in winter, with snow the ground, the pond frozen, and ice skaters sliding around, the park is just as beautiful.
Click here to see some of my Engagement and Wedding Photography work at The Boston Public Garden:
Would you like to learn more about my photography and how I work with couples like yourself?
The North End
A walk through Boston's rich history
If history is your passion then the North End Neighborhood is different a location you should consider for your engagement portrait session. With its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and old-world charm, the North End provides a picturesque backdrop for timeless engagement photos. Furthermore this concentrated city center is walking distance from several key landmarks such as the Old North Church, Paul Revere Mall, the water front, as well as the Harbor walk, which all would make excellent background for your portraits.
On a similar note is the over all density of the area. It is difficult to put into words but north end is cozy. It contains many narrow roads, alleys, and as well the the various stores and restaurants are very tightly packed together. This results an interesting, unique, old world city feel.
Click here to see some of my Engagement and Wedding Photography work around the North End of Boston.
Christopher Columbus Park
A waterfront oasis in the city
Christopher Columbus Park is a gem for portraits in Boston, nestled near the waterfront. I've frequented this spot countless times, drawn not only by its proximity to the Boston Long Wharf Hotel, a favorite wedding venue, but also by its diverse array of portrait-worthy features. At its heart stands a sprawling concrete trellis, often draped in lush vines and foliage, offering a unique backdrop that evolves with each season—a perfect canvas for captivating portraits. Additionally, the park boasts a striking waterfall and sweeping views of the bustling waterway, providing dynamic settings for photos amidst the city's energy. For a quieter scene, a charming walkway leads down to the harbor walk, offering a peaceful retreat with the city skyline as a stunning backdrop. Christopher Columbus Park truly encapsulates the vibrant spirit of downtown Boston, making it an ideal locale for unforgettable portraits.
Click here to see my article describing Christopher Columbus Park in full.
The Boston Museum of Science
Unveil the magic of love against a backdrop of science and wonder
As someone who's always had a deep appreciation for science, learning, and exploration, the Boston Museum of Science holds a special place in my heart. But what many may not realize is that beyond its educational wonders, it offers a treasure trove of opportunities for stunning portraits. The museum graciously welcomes visitors to explore its entire building for portrait sessions, offering an array of unique exhibits as backdrops that are simply breathtaking. Whether it's posing with the Martian Rover in the basement, capturing the awe-inspiring spectacle of the lightning generator theater, or even snapping a selfie with a T-Rex dinosaur, the possibilities are truly endless. And stepping outside, you're greeted with the museum's charming 1960s modernist architecture, providing a timeless backdrop against the backdrop of the city skyline and the serene Charles River. With convenient parking and accessible transportation options, the museum seamlessly combines visual splendor with practicality, making it the perfect setting for your engagement portrait session.
Click here to see my article describing The Boston Museum of science Park in full.
Are you looking for a Boston Wedding Photographer?
Hello! My name is Gregory Hitchcock. I am a wedding photographer serving the greater Boston area. My passion is capturing the story of your wedding day in a manner that is authentic, natural, but also insightful and artistic. Combing this process of elegant photojournalism with an artistic vision I have be refining for the last twenty years, I create coverage of your wedding day that is both true to you as well as beautifully expressed. Every package I offer includes pre-wedding planning meetings as well as an engagement session so that I can ensure your wedding photography perfectly matches your vision! Please take a moment to fill out the contact form below and we will setup a time to meet. Or if you are not feeling the contact form simply drop me an email: Gregory@Gregoryhitchcockphotography.com
Fenway Park
Boston's Cathedral
If you're eager to showcase your Boston pride in your engagement session, Fenway Park stands out as the ultimate choice. More than just a baseball stadium, Fenway is an emblem of the city's rich history and culture, dating back over a century. Its vintage charm and iconic landmarks, like the legendary Green Monster, set a timeless stage for romantic portraits that speak volumes about your connection to the city. What's more, Fenway's versatility offers a plethora of indoor and outdoor settings, ensuring your session is as diverse and authentic as your love story.
Click here to see my article describing The Boston Museum of science Park in full.
Castle Island
History, nature, and breathtaking views.
Castle Island, nestled along Boston Harbor, offers an enchanting blend of history, natural beauty, and picturesque landscapes, making it an ideal location for engagement sessions. With its strong connection to Boston's rich history, highlighted by the iconic Fort Independence, couples have ample opportunities for timeless portraits amidst the historic architecture and scenic surroundings. Beyond its historical significance, Castle Island boasts uninterrupted views of the ocean, complemented by a sandy beach perfect for romantic strolls and a rocky shoreline adding a touch of rugged charm. Between the beach and the fort lies lush parkland, providing a verdant backdrop for intimate moments captured in nature. And for a more urban vibe, couples can relax in the park while enjoying a stunning view of the cityscape, adding diversity to their engagement session photos. Castle Island truly offers a dynamic range of settings to suit every couple's style and vision.
Northeast Tip of Hull, MA
An Intimate view of the Atlantic
Discovering a hidden gem like the secret spot in the town of Hull, MA, adds an element of intrigue and exclusivity to any engagement session. Tucked away on a public walkway along the Atlantic coast, behind unassuming private residences, this spot remains a well-kept secret known to only a few. Perched atop a small rocky bluff, it offers an immersive panorama of the Atlantic Ocean, the iconic Boston skyline, and the majestic Boston lighthouse. The rugged terrain lends itself to dramatic portraits, with crashing waves and windswept vistas creating a captivating backdrop. For couples seeking a more adventurous and dynamic setting for their engagement session, this hidden spot in Hull promises an unforgettable experience and breathtaking photos to cherish for a lifetime.
Please have a look below at some of my work in the town of Hull below.
Beacon Hill Neighborhood
Embark on a stroll through Boston's historic neighborhood, where every corner exudes charm and elegance
Nestled in the heart of Boston, the Beacon Hill neighborhood stands as a quintessential backdrop for enchanting engagement sessions. Steeped in rich history and adorned with charming architecture, this picturesque enclave offers a timeless allure that captures the essence of romance. What sets Beacon Hill apart is its intimate atmosphere, with narrow cobblestone streets and gas-lit lamps casting a warm glow that invites couples to stroll hand in hand through its cozy, tightly knit streets. Amidst the historic brownstones and hidden gardens, every corner reveals a story waiting to be told, making Beacon Hill the perfect setting for capturing cherished moments of love and connection against a backdrop of timeless beauty.
The Arnold Arboretum
Capture the beauty of your love amidst the blooming wonders of nature
Nestled within the heart of Boston, the Arnold Arboretum emerges as an idyllic oasis for engagement sessions, seamlessly blending nature's splendor with urban sophistication. With its diverse array of trees, plants, flowers, and foliage, the arboretum offers a captivating backdrop that transforms with the seasons, from the vibrant blooms of spring to the fiery hues of autumn and the serene beauty of winter. Spanning across vast acres, even on bustling summer days, couples can find secluded spots for intimate photo sessions amidst the lush greenery. And for an extra touch of magic, the annual Lilac Festival in springtime paints the park with a kaleidoscope of colors and scents, creating an enchanting setting for capturing unforgettable moments of love and connection amidst nature's embrace.
Please have a look at some of the Portraits I have captured at the Arnold Arboretum
Let’s get to know each other
Welcome, My name is Gregory Hitchcock
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my article about engagement session locations in Boston. If you are currently looking for a Boston Wedding photographer I would love to setup a time to chat, discuss all your ideas for the big day, as well as explain how I work with couples.