Top 10 Engagement Photo Locations in Connecticut

George Verdzadze
Sep 15
4 min read

Planning Your Engagement Photos in Connecticut

Planning your engagement photos is one of the most exciting parts of the wedding journey. These photos not only celebrate your love story but also give you timeless memories to look back on. Connecticut is filled with beautiful and diverse backdrops — from lush gardens to sandy beaches and even historic estates. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic, elegant setting or something more casual and adventurous, the right location can make all the difference.

As a Connecticut engagement photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing couples across the state in some truly magical places. If you’re wondering where to go for your engagement session, here are my top 10 favorite engagement photo locations in Connecticut.

1. Waveny Park – New Canaan

Waveny Park is a classic choice for couples who want a mix of elegance and nature. The park features beautifully landscaped gardens, sprawling open fields, and the iconic stone mansion that adds a timeless, romantic feel to photos.

The park looks stunning year-round, but it’s especially magical in spring and summer when everything is green and vibrant. Golden hour sessions here are breathtaking, with warm light spilling across the gardens. Couples love Waveny because it feels both intimate and grand, offering endless backdrops in one location.

2. Elizabeth Park Rose Garden – Hartford

If you’re looking for a floral wonderland, Elizabeth Park’s Rose Garden is hard to beat. It’s the oldest municipal rose garden in the U.S., and during peak bloom in June, the park transforms into a colorful sea of roses.

The garden’s arches and pathways create natural frames for romantic portraits, while the wide variety of blooms adds a dreamy, storybook quality to engagement photos. Beyond the roses, the park also has open fields and charming walkways that work beautifully for a variety of poses.

This spot is perfect for couples who love nature, color, and a touch of classic romance.

3. Harkness Memorial State Park – Waterford

For couples who want a blend of ocean views and historic elegance, Harkness Memorial State Park is a must. The park features a grand seaside mansion, manicured gardens, and sweeping views of Long Island Sound.

Engagement sessions here have a timeless feel, with options for everything from romantic strolls along the gardens to fun, candid moments by the shore. Sunset is especially beautiful at Harkness, as the sky glows over the water and creates a soft, golden backdrop.

This location is ideal if you want the sophistication of an estate combined with the natural beauty of the Connecticut coastline.

4. Mystic Seaport & Downtown Mystic

Mystic is one of Connecticut’s most charming towns, and it offers endless opportunities for unique engagement photos. The historic seaport features cobblestone streets, wooden ships, and a classic New England nautical vibe.

Couples love strolling through the quaint downtown area, stopping for photos along the water, or capturing candid moments in front of Mystic’s famous drawbridge. If you’re looking for a location that feels lively, romantic, and a little adventurous, Mystic is an excellent choice.

5. Silver Sands State Park – Milford

For a relaxed, coastal engagement session, Silver Sands State Park is perfect. With its sandy beach, wooden boardwalk, and marsh trails, the park offers a mix of scenic backdrops in one location.

The beach is especially beautiful at sunset, when the sky glows with soft pinks and oranges. Couples often kick off their shoes, walk along the shoreline, and enjoy a fun, laid-back session. Silver Sands is ideal if you want your engagement photos to feel carefree and natural.

6. Yale University Campus – New Haven

If you’re drawn to architecture and history, Yale University’s campus provides a sophisticated backdrop. With its gothic stone arches, ivy-covered walls, and elegant courtyards, it feels like stepping into a timeless European setting right in the heart of Connecticut.

This location works well for couples who want something classy and urban, yet still intimate. The campus is beautiful year-round, but the fall foliage and spring blossoms add extra magic to engagement photos here.

7. Southford Falls State Park – Southbury

For adventurous couples who love the outdoors, Southford Falls offers waterfalls, covered bridges, and scenic trails. It’s a wonderful spot for couples who don’t mind a little hiking and want photos that feel natural and adventurous.

In autumn, the foliage around the falls makes this location absolutely stunning, with vibrant colors reflecting in the water. It’s a great choice for couples who want something rustic, romantic, and a little off the beaten path.

8. Downtown West Hartford (Blue Back Square)

If you’d rather skip nature and head into a lively, urban setting, Blue Back Square in West Hartford is perfect. This area is full of colorful murals, chic coffee shops, and modern city vibes.

Engagement sessions here feel casual and fun — perfect for couples who want candid, lifestyle-inspired photos. You can grab coffee, laugh over ice cream, or simply stroll the streets together for a relaxed, stylish shoot.

9. Lighthouse Point Park – New Haven

Lighthouse Point Park offers a little bit of everything: a historic lighthouse, a sandy beach, a boardwalk, and even a carousel. It’s versatile and works for both playful and romantic engagement photos.

The lighthouse itself creates a striking backdrop, while the beach is ideal for golden hour portraits. Couples love this spot because it feels both classic and coastal, and it’s easy to mix up your session with a variety of looks in one location.

10. Gillette Castle State Park – East Haddam

For something truly unique, Gillette Castle State Park is hard to beat. This stone castle overlooking the Connecticut River looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale.

Couples can explore the castle grounds, wander through wooded trails, and enjoy sweeping river views. It’s perfect for couples who want a dramatic, storybook-style engagement session. No matter the season, Gillette Castle adds a touch of magic to every photo.

Final Thoughts

Connecticut offers so many beautiful spots for engagement photos, whether you’re dreaming of a romantic garden, a lively city vibe, or a peaceful seaside view. The key is choosing a location that feels meaningful and reflects your personalities as a couple.

As an engagement photographer in Connecticut, I love helping couples pick the perfect backdrop to tell their love story. If you’re planning your engagement session and would like to explore one of these amazing locations, I’d be honored to capture those moments for you.