As a Richmond wedding and portrait photographer, I'm often asked about the best locations for engagement photos. Let me share three of Richmond's most photogenic spots that provide stunning backdrops for couples throughout the year.
Maymont Park: A Victorian Paradise
Maymont offers an incredible variety of settings for engagement photos in one location. One major advantage: unlike many Richmond venues, Maymont doesn't charge a photography fee, making it a popular choice for couples. However, this also means you'll often share the space with other photographers and sessions, especially on weekends and during peak seasons.
Important timing note: Maymont closes between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM depending on the season. This can create challenges during summer months when golden hour lighting occurs later in the evening. We may need to work quickly to capture those dreamy sunset shots, or consider a morning session when the gardens are less crowded. Despite these considerations, the park's 100-acre Victorian estate provides:
- Italian Garden: The cascading fountains and classical architecture create romantic, European-inspired photos
- Japanese Garden: Featuring a waterfall, koi pond, and curved bridges perfect for intimate moments
- Rolling Hills: Natural landscapes with mature trees offering beautiful lighting during golden hour
- Historic Mansion: The stone architecture provides a classic, elegant backdrop
- Seasonal Variety: From spring blooms to fall foliage, Maymont is beautiful year-round
Best Time: Early morning sessions are recommended for more privacy and flexibility with timing. If choosing an evening session, plan to arrive at least 2 hours before the park closes to ensure we have enough time for all locations. Weekdays tend to be significantly less crowded than weekends.
Pro tip: Since Maymont is quite sprawling, consider bringing a small pop-up changing tent if you're planning multiple outfits. While not the most elegant solution, it's incredibly practical given the distance between parking, bathrooms, and various photo locations. This allows us to quickly change looks without having to trek back to the car or bathrrom while maximizing our photo time at different locations around the estate.
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Lewis Ginter offers meticulously maintained gardens that provide stunning backdrops throughout the year:
- Rose Garden: Hundreds of blooming roses from May through October
- Fountain Gardens: Classical water features and structured pathways
- Asian Valley: Peaceful setting with traditional garden elements
- Seasonal Displays: Special installations change with the season
The garden requires a photography permit ($100 for non-members, $50 for members) plus regular admission fees, which actually works to your advantage – you'll find far fewer photographers and sessions competing for the perfect spots. While this makes it a pricier option, the extra investment means more private, relaxed photo opportunities.
Important Notes:
- Professional photography permit required
- Regular admission fees apply ($14 per person)
- Dressing room rental available for $50 (no pop-up changing tents permitted)
- Advance booking required for permits and dressing rooms
- Members receive significant discount on photo permits
Best Time: Morning sessions work well here, especially during peak bloom seasons.
Bryan Park
For couples seeking a more natural, rustic setting, Bryan Park offers a distinct advantage: its extended hours. Unlike Maymont or Lewis Ginter, Bryan Park stays open later, making it perfect for those summer golden hour sessions when the best light happens after 7 PM. You won't have to worry about being rushed out during peak lighting times.
While the grounds may not be as meticulously maintained as formal botanical gardens, this 262-acre park offers a more relaxed, natural setting for photos:
- Azalea Garden: Spectacular spring blooms
- Young's Pond: Peaceful water views and wildlife
- Historic Architecture: Stone structures and bridges
- Wooded Trails: Natural light filtering through trees
- Open Fields: Perfect for sunset photos
The park's more casual atmosphere means fewer restrictions and more flexibility with timing. However, keep in mind that while beautiful, it doesn't offer the same level of manicured landscaping as Lewis Ginter or the architectural grandeur of Maymont. It's ideal for couples seeking a more natural, laid-back vibe for their engagement photos.
Best Time: Golden hour provides beautiful lighting through the trees, and late evening sessions are possible during summer months.
Planning Your Engagement Session
When choosing your location, consider:
- The season and what will be blooming
- Your personal style as a couple
- The overall vibe you want for your photos
- Outfit changes and accessibility
- Permit requirements (especially for Maymont and Lewis Ginter)
Ready to plan your Richmond engagement session? Contact me to discuss these locations and create beautiful memories together.