We hear this question a lot: “What are the best locations for an engagement session in Charleston?” Whether you are local or visiting Charleston for your engagement session, you may not know what the best engagement session locations in this area are. There are so many scenic and unique spots to capture the magic moment of your engagement, so it can be hard figuring out where to go for the session. That’s why we’d like to share our favorites with you! We’ve prepared 40 remarkable places that we and our engaged couples really like. If you’d like to see more amazing engagement photos, feel free to check our portfolio of recent sessions. We are sure that you will find the place that matches you perfectly!
Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens
Boone Hall Plantation is a very remarkable place, and there are several reasons for that. First of all, it is the oldest operative plantation in America. It has been in operation for more than 300 years and is now open to the public. Second, such an impressive location could not avoid being featured in famous movies, some of which are known all over the world. One of them is Scarlett, written as a sequel to Gone with the Wind. Another popular movie filmed there is The Notebook, based on Nicholas Sparks’ novel. So, if you are planning an intimate engagement session, this place is perfect for it. Additionally, our leading photographer lives just 5 minutes away from this beautiful location. Please keep in mind that booking in advance is essential, as Boone Hall is very popular and requires a photography pass, which we arrange for our clients. Sounds amazing, doesn’t it? For more detailed information about Boone Hall’s stunning engagement session spots, explore our full guide.
White Point Garden
This park perfectly reflects the spirit of Charleston. White Point Garden can confidently be called one of the city’s gems! There are two especially beautiful spots within the park. The first is the most popular — the Gazebo. We can capture stunning photos inside it or in front of it. The second spot is the area with a view of the Avenue of Oaks. The park offers so much! On one side, you’ll find the waterfront, where we can take breathtaking photos with the water as a backdrop. On the opposite side are the beginnings of some of Charleston’s most beautiful streets — King, Meeting, and Church streets. Since this location is quite large, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to White Point Gardens top engagement photo spots.
Waterfront Park
Many people know this park only because of the famous Pineapple Fountain, but there’s so much more to it that deserves attention. The park was awarded the 2007 Landmark Award from the American Society of Landscape Architects and the National Trust for Historic Preservation. It’s a romantic, serene, and perfectly picturesque destination. The charming tree-lined alleys and beautiful backgrounds will make any engaged couple fall in love with this unique Southern city. There are also plenty of benches in shady areas where we can capture intimate and romantic moments, making Waterfront Park a wonderful choice for engagement photography!
The area around the famous Pineapple Fountain offers spectacular views of the waterfront on one side and beautiful greenery on the other. The majestic trees, which you can see in many of our photos, add to the beauty of the surroundings. This unusual fountain is the focal point of Charleston Waterfront Park, enjoyed by locals and visitors since it opened in 1990. The nearby cobblestone street also provides a unique backdrop for your photos! Not far from the park is Rainbow Row, and we can take a short walk to capture even more lovely shots in that iconic spot. For a more detailed guide on all the best photo spots within Waterfront Park, take a look at our full guide.
Hampton Park
The first thing that might catch your attention is that Hampton Park is the largest park on the peninsula. The picturesque trails are so captivating that we can capture charming photos just about anywhere! In the center, there’s a large fountain often surrounded by Canadian geese. Where else can you find majestic live oaks, beautiful Spanish moss, and a lovely duck pond all in one place? It’s truly a magical spot! While the park can get a bit crowded, I’ve had many photo sessions here and can help you choose the perfect time to avoid the crowds. For more detailed information on how to make the most of Hampton Park for your engagement session, be sure to check out our full guide.
Chapel Street Fountain Park
Are you dreaming of your engagement session being calm, peaceful, and very intimate? I have just the place to suggest! One of the greatest benefits of Chapel Street Fountain Park is that it feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Charleston. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the crowds at popular tourist spots, this hidden oasis in the heart of downtown is the perfect retreat. Water makes for a fantastic backdrop in any kind of photography, bringing life and movement to your photos. The fountain, beautifully placed in the middle of the park, is surrounded by flowers, trees, and greenery, making it a picturesque spot. Few locations can boast packing so much green space into such a small area. Don’t miss the chance to capture these charming views!
Angel Oak Park
Do you love nature in all its glory and want to capture one of the most important moments of your life in a stunning location? Then a visit to Angel Oak Park is a must, especially to see its most spectacular feature — the Angel Oak. This magnificent tree is estimated to be 400-500 years old, and just seeing it in person is a breathtaking experience. You won’t regret visiting this marvelous place. The long, trailing branches create a romantic and unique atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for photos that truly stand out. It’s impossible to remain indifferent in the presence of such natural beauty. Please note that Angel Oak Park requires a reservation for photography sessions, so be sure to plan ahead.
Daniel Island Park
Daniel Island Parks are considered some of the most desirable locations in the entire Lowcountry — and for good reason! Across these parks, you can enjoy a wide variety of views, from water and marshlands to woodlands, parks, and even golf courses. Such diversity naturally draws attention! These beautiful locations are nestled within spectacular natural scenery, and you’ll also be able to take in the sights of gracious homes, townhomes, and condominiums that showcase the finest architectural traditions of the region. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience some of the island’s most breathtaking vistas.
Colonial Lake
Another idea for an engagement photo session is Colonial Lake, a simpler yet peaceful location that’s much less crowded. You’ll find beautiful backgrounds with lovely decorated bushes along the sidewalk, and you can enjoy views of elegant homes in the surrounding neighborhood. The area around the lake is well-maintained and manicured with trees, plants, and flowers, giving you the feeling of escaping the city without having to leave. While it may not be as grand as White Point Garden or Hampton Park, Colonial Lake offers its own charming spots that make for wonderful photo backdrops. Just take a look at the photos I’ve captured with one of my happy engaged couples!
Charles Towne Landing
Another place that beautifully represents the natural charm of Charleston is Charles Towne Landing. The park offers many intimate trails where you can walk and admire the plants and scenery of the area. The abundance of natural birds and wildlife makes you feel like you’re in the heart of the woods. With 664 acres of stunning Lowcountry scenery and 80 acres of park gardens, I’m confident we’ll find the perfect backdrop for your engagement photos. The majestic alley of oaks is especially breathtaking and creates unforgettable memories. Why not capture your special day in such a wonderful place?
Charleston Tea Plantation
Charleston Tea Plantation is the only tea plantation in North America, where you can see hundreds of thousands of tea bushes stretching out acre after acre, almost as far as the eye can see. The beautiful and spacious plantation provides countless opportunities for amazing photos. It’s usually not very crowded, as the Tea Plantation isn’t one of the more obvious engagement photo session locations in Charleston, like White Point Garden or Magnolia Gardens. However, the beauty of this place is by no means inferior to those popular tourist destinations. If you’re looking for a unique and serene spot for your engagement session, this might be the perfect place.
Magnolia Plantation
Do you want to capture some truly unique photos — perhaps even with alligators — to make all your friends jealous? Then you must visit Magnolia Plantation and Gardens! It is the only garden in South Carolina to be honored with such a distinction. During peak blooming season, this location feels like stepping into a fairy-tale. With its wide variety of flowers, magnolia trees, and an elegant bridge, it’s like a dream come to life, isn’t it? If you’re looking to enjoy spectacular, romantic greenery while experiencing the oldest public gardens in America, I would be more than happy to take pictures there. Please note that Magnolia Plantation requires a photography fee, so you’ll need to call and find out the exact amount. However, this magnificent place is undoubtedly worth every penny. For more detailed information on everything Magnolia Plantation offers, we have a full guide available.
Middleton Place
The beauty of the gardens at Middleton Place and the shade they provide will make you forget about everything else! What sets this place apart from so many others? The landscape is absolutely stunning, with gardens reminiscent of European royal gardens, yet with a distinct Southern charm. Many people consider Middleton Place to be one of the most beautiful and enchanting locations they’ve ever visited. It’s a perfect spot for a romantic engagement photo session. However, please note that there is a fee for photography, so you’ll need to contact the administration to find out the exact amount. For more detailed information on capturing the best moments at Middleton Place, we have a full guide available.
I’On
What do you envision for your engagement photo session location? Beautiful, inspiring nature with diverse views and a place renowned for both its beauty and historical significance? Then let me introduce you to one of the most charming places you’ll ever see — I’On. Located in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, just northeast of Charleston, I’On is a mixed-use New Urbanist “Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND)” style community. The area is peaceful and quiet, so you won’t have to worry about crowds or timing your photos.
Rainbow Row
You’ll often see Rainbow Row as a backdrop in countless photos of visitors to Charleston. It’s one of the most popular destinations in the city, so it can get quite crowded. However, I can recommend the best times to avoid the crowds and capture some amazing photos without any hassle. What makes Rainbow Row so famous? These historic houses, each with its own unique charm, are painted in vibrant colors, providing incredible backdrops for your photos. If you want to capture the true spirit of Downtown Charleston, this location is definitely worth considering.
Elliott Street
Elliott Street is just steps away from everything that makes Charleston one of the most beloved cities in America. With its beautiful landscapes, buildings featuring original architecture, and a variety of flowers and trees, this spot creates a truly magical atmosphere. As you can see in photos, it’s usually not too crowded, making it an excellent choice for any type of engagement session. If you’re looking for a quieter yet charming location, Elliott Street is definitely worth considering.
Legare Street
Legare Street is one of Charleston’s grandest and most picturesque streets, making it a fantastic location for capturing special moments. If you and your partner are looking for a more secluded and intimate setting, this is the perfect option! The street offers a romantic atmosphere with its historic, elegant homes and lush greenery. In the photo, you can see a couple posing in front of finely wrought entrance gates, which add a unique and charming touch to your engagement photos.
Church Street
Church Street showcases simple yet graceful architectural styles, making it a photographer’s dream come true! The timeless beauty of this street will ensure your engagement photo session is unforgettable, with stunning views that create perfect backdrops. Church Street can truly be considered one of the best locations for a photo session in Charleston.
Philadelphia Alley
Tucked between Queen Street and Cumberland Street, Philadelphia Alley is one of Charleston’s hidden treasures, beloved by locals. As a professional photographer, I love the alley’s hidden nature, which gives a sense of discovery as you walk through it. With plenty of shade from the surrounding trees, it stays cooler on warm days, making it a comfortable spot for photos. Philadelphia Alley offers so many great angles and has a story in every corner, making it an easy and charming location for beautiful engagement photos.
Isle of Palms
Are you looking for a place with a calm and relaxing atmosphere? You’ll find everything you need at this excellent beach — small, soft waves, and shallow warm water that set the perfect scene for your engagement photos. One of the biggest advantages of Isle of Palms is that it’s not crowded, especially if we plan your session in the morning. I love this location for its beauty and peaceful vibes, making it the ideal beach option for capturing lovely and memorable photos. Plus, it offers convenient parking. Since I know this area well, we’ll easily find the best spots for our session. With gorgeous views, a beautiful pier, and a romantic atmosphere, we’ll create stunning photos together!
Folly Beach
Are you a hopeless romantic? Do you dream of reaching the ends of the earth with your soul mate, basking in the beauty of painted sunrises and sunsets? Then Folly Beach is the perfect choice for your engagement photo session! While it may not be the literal ends of the earth, this amazing beach is known as ‘the Edge of America.’ With my extensive experience, I can guide you to the most charming and unique spots at Folly Beach to ensure we capture the best backgrounds. If you’re looking for a true labor of love in your photos, Folly Beach is definitely worth considering.
Kiawah Island
Like other beach options, Kiawah Island is ideal for couples who want to capture their engagement in a calm and peaceful atmosphere. However, this location offers a unique charm that sets it apart from other beaches. I highly recommend this oasis of untouched natural beauty for couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities and find their own intimate, serene space. It’s perfect for those who find it hard to relax, as the tranquil atmosphere encourages you to express your most sincere feelings and emotions.
Morris Island
While all beach locations have their own calm atmosphere, Morris Island truly stands out. The highlight of this spot is the stunning, candy-cane striped Morris Island Light, a beautiful treasure that was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. If you’re seeking a magical experience for your engagement session, this serene location is perfect. It’s also ideal for those who are more reserved and prefer to avoid the crowds and busyness of the city. Here, you can relax, feel free, and embrace the happiness that’s essential for capturing truly meaningful engagement photos.
Mount Pleasant Pier
Are you looking for a relaxing, laid-back spot where you can enjoy the harbor? If so, the Mount Pleasant Pier is an excellent choice for your engagement photography. The Pier is part of the Memorial Waterfront Park complex, offering an intimate atmosphere and beautiful views. You might even spot dolphins in the harbor! With gentle breezes and the stunning blue sky overhead, you’ll quickly realize just how amazing the Mount Pleasant Pier truly is.
Ocean Walk Mount Pleasant
This photo almost seems unreal, doesn’t it? Yet, it’s one of my favorite pictures taken with an engaged couple. Ocean Walk Mount Pleasant is one of the best places to enjoy breathtaking views and walk in the footsteps of history. This scenic, lesser-known park offers wonderful views of Charleston Harbor, with incredible landmarks like the Ravenel Bridge as its highlight.
Public Pier Concord Street
Concord Street offers many great spots for romantic photos, but the Public Pier is one I highly recommend. Whether you’re newly engaged or simply looking for a stunning backdrop, everyone wants to capture their special moments in the best possible setting. This location is perfect for those who love lush greenery and beautiful water views. If you dream of walking along gentle waves and enjoying a quiet, romantic moment together, feel free to reach out, and I’ll guide you to this picturesque place!
College of Charleston
Everyone knows about Charleston’s famous parks and gardens, but the beauty of other spots is often hidden from tourists. As a Charleston engagement photographer for over 10 years, I can show you some lesser-known locations perfect for photos — like the area near the College of Charleston. The college’s stunning building is nestled among beautiful greenery, offering a picturesque setting. In the photo, you can see an elegant streetlight that adds a charming and captivating touch to the scene. Don’t you want to take a stroll along these lovely trails?
Custom House
Some people are drawn to the incredible, picturesque views of nature, while others prefer capturing moments near historic buildings. At the United States Custom House, you can enjoy both the beauty of its marvelous architecture and the sense of history that comes with it. We can also take some unique and romantic photos around the building, as seen in the image. Built in 1879, the Custom House is one of the few historical customs buildings that still serves its original purpose. Doesn’t the idea of having an engagement photo session here sound intriguing, doesn’t it?
Bar / Café
This engagement photo idea may require a bit of extra effort and might not appeal to everyone. Did you meet at a bar or café? Or perhaps your first date was there? If so, this idea could be perfect for you. Imagine capturing the awkward yet romantic atmosphere of that first meeting, and now documenting the moment you’ve decided to unite your lives in the very place where you first saw your soul mate. It’s possible if you’re willing to take the leap and ask for permission to hold your engagement photo session at the bar or café. Take a look at one such couple in my photos — they look so happy and beautiful, don’t they?
Charleston Fire Station
You didn’t expect this, did you? However, for couples who work at or have a personal connection to the Charleston Fire Station, this location offers an amazing way to add a meaningful and personal touch to your engagement session. I’ve had the pleasure of photographing couples who worked there, and it created truly unique and memorable photos that they will cherish forever. The fire station not only adds character to the session but also tells part of the couple’s story. If you’re looking for something special and close to your heart, let me know — we can make your session unforgettable!
Old City Jail
Looking for something truly special and unique for your engagement session? Want to surprise your friends with unforgettable photos? The Old City Jail, located on a historic four-acre parcel reserved for public use since Charleston’s earliest settlement, is the perfect spot for adventurous couples. This jail, operational from 1802 to 1939, housed Charleston’s most infamous criminals. While the property isn’t large, it’s rich in history — and perhaps a few spooks! It’s beautiful and (surprisingly!) romantic location for couples seeking something out of the ordinary.
Rooftop
If you want your engagement session to feel like a scene from your favorite romantic movie, a rooftop location is the perfect choice. Just take a look at the stunning view from the top! It’s one of the best views I’ve ever seen. With soft lighting, an incredible landscape, and a magical atmosphere, your partner will feel like the hero of a beautiful love story. And the photos? They’ll be absolutely breathtaking! While hotels often offer great rooftop views, there are many other venues where you can book a rooftop for your engagement session.
Patriots Point
Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum can be a fascinating and unique spot for your engagement photo session, especially if both of you have an interest in history. The museum covers a large area, featuring iconic landmarks like the USS Yorktown (an aircraft carrier) and USS Laffey (a destroyer), giving you plenty of options for your session. If you’re dreaming of a themed engagement session with a historical or military vibe, Patriots Point is the perfect choice. Charleston Bay offers a magnificent view, providing a beautiful backdrop for your special moments. Plus, there’s no entry fee, so you won’t need to worry about making advance bookings. The entire atmosphere of the museum sets the perfect mood for a themed engagement photo session in Charleston.
Ravenel Bridge
With its breathtaking sunrise and sunset views, the Ravenel Bridge is one of the most beautiful places in Charleston. It’s stunning in any season, and if you love grand constructions in open spaces, you’ll be sure to fall in love with this location. The bridge offers a sense of being on top of the world while still maintaining a feeling of intimacy. Its massive and monumental structure will stand as a silent witness to your engagement session, adding a timeless touch to your photos. While spring and summer offer the most comfortable weather, the bridge is captivating at any time, whether during the day or at night. There’s a parking lot under the bridge, so you’ll need to walk a bit before reaching the top, but the views make it worth every step. Make your engagement session truly unforgettable on the Ravenel Bridge.
Cypress gardens
Can you imagine yourself surrounded by beautiful nature, with towering bald cypress trees and the chance for a private boat trip among them? If you dream of having your engagement photo session in such a fairy-tale setting, then Cypress Gardens is the perfect choice. With eye-catching flowerbeds, tall trees, winding paths, and romantic boat trips, this location offers everything needed to make your day truly special. It’s also spacious, so if you’d like to add some engagement decorations, you’ll have plenty of room. This memorable place, filled with a unique energy, is where scenes from the movie The Notebook were filmed. There’s no need for advance booking, and entry is free — just plan your time. Sound tempting? Don’t miss your chance to capture your best engagement photos at Cypress Gardens.
Old Village
This charming location is nestled in Mount Pleasant, and that’s one of its key advantages. Old Village is the downtown area of Mount Pleasant, featuring elegant, historic homes surrounded by towering trees. These tall trees provide welcome shade, making it a perfect spot to relax during a sunny day. The combination of beautiful houses and lush greenery creates a stunning backdrop for all types of photo sessions. Another great feature of this location is its access to the water, allowing us to capture breathtaking sunset photos, rich with vibrant colors. What makes Old Village even more special is its peaceful atmosphere. It’s an ideal place for engagement photos, especially if you or your partner are on the shy side. After your session, you can unwind and celebrate your engagement at one of the local restaurants.
Shem Creek
Shem Creek is a picturesque waterfront location that offers stunning views of the Charleston Harbor and surrounding marshes, making it perfect for capturing panoramic photos. Both sides of the creek are lined with restaurants serving delicious local cuisine, adding to the charm of the area. There’s also a lovely pier where we can take romantic photos of you and your partner. The combination of beautiful views and nationally recognized cuisine will make your engagement photo session truly unforgettable.
Hutson Alley
Hutson Alley has a very unique aesthetic that sets it apart from typical green parks or waterfronts. Instead, you’ll find a charming lane lined with old buildings, bars, restaurants, and other cozy spots. During the day, the alley provides shaded areas for a peaceful retreat, while at night, neon signs and string lights create a magical, romantic atmosphere, perfect for an evening engagement photo session.
Pink House
Why not capture some memorable shots next to one of the oldest buildings in South Carolina? The Pink House is a location rich in history and romance. Over the years, it has served as a tavern, a studio, and now houses an art gallery. With its cobblestone street, antique roof shingles, and charming shutters, stepping into this setting feels like being transported to another era. The Pink House is steeped in ancient legends, adding a sense of mystery and charm to your engagement photos.
American Theater
You might recognize this iconic theater from The Notebook. With its glowing marquee lights, wide entrance with wooden doors, and posters of upcoming performances, the American Theater offers a stylish and vibrant façade that makes for an unforgettable photo session backdrop. What’s even more special is that you can arrange to have a personalized message displayed on the theater’s marquee. It’s a unique way to express your feelings for your partner or add a personal touch to your engagement photos.
Gibbes Museum of Art
The Gibbes Museum of Art exudes creativity, inspiration, and beauty, making it an original and interesting location for engagement photos that are sure to become treasured family memories. There are several ways to organize your session here. First, you can take beautiful photos inside the museum, where spacious and bright halls display works by famous artists. One of the rooms even features a dome-shaped roof adorned with glass, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere. Please note that indoor photography requires a reservation in advance.
Alternatively, you can take photos in the courtyard, which is free and doesn’t require an appointment. This cozy outdoor space is filled with greenery, flowers, benches, and even a small fountain, offering a charming and peaceful setting for your engagement session.
I hope this guide was helpful and that you discovered some new spots and hidden gems in Charleston! If you still have any questions, feel free to contact us — I’ll be happy to answer them. And if you’d like, I can also send more pictures of any location that caught your eye. Rest assured, my goal is to capture stunning photos that will make your friends a little jealous!
“One Of The Most Reviewed Charleston Photographer” on Google for 2023. Also recognized by Weddingwire, The Knot and Facebook as one of the photographers with the most positive reviews.
My challenge is to create the most beautiful and significant photographs of you and your beloved ones and not only fulfill your expectations but exceed them… your challenge is to resist!