Where To Take Your Oregon Engagement Photos | Oregon Engagement Photographer

There are endless options for choosing where to take your Oregon engagement photos. From the rocky coast to the high desert, the mountain or the city, there’s a little bit of everything to choose from for your dreamy Pacific Northwest session.

There are two main questions I ask my clients who aren’t sure of a location yet.

1) Do you want to go somewhere familiar or meaningful to you and your relationship?

2) Do you want to explore somewhere new and epic together to mark this new chapter?

Once you’ve decided if you want to go somewhere new or somewhere familiar, that will start to narrow down your choices. I’ve listed out some of my favorite locations for Oregon engagement sessions below— all places that I frequently shoot and know like the back of my hand. But I’m always photographing new locations in the PNW and will be sure to add to this list as I discover more amazing engagement spots in Oregon!

My recommendations are divided below into the Oregon coast, the Columbia River Gorge, Portland, Central Oregon, and Outside the Box.

The Oregon Coast

CANNON BEACH +. ECOLA STATE PARK

I’ll always remember the first time I glimpsed Haystack rock off the coast of Cannon Beach. I’m sure most people do, because it’s about as iconic as it gets for the Oregon Coast. Although this is a popular spot for oregon coast engagements and proposals, the beach is so huge and the tide so vast, that you can easily take photos without others in the backgrounds. Coming from the east coast, which is known for small, rocky beaches, I especially appreciate this. Not only can you get amazing coastal engagement photos with Haystack rock in the background, we can also wander around Ecola State Park and other small beaches and woods nearby. Check out Katie and Nic’s Cannon Beach session with their dog for inspo!

HUG POINT + ELK FLATS TRAIL

If you’re looking for a spot on the Oregon coast with a little less traffic than Cannon Beach, I can’t recommend Hug Point enough. Just twenty minutes south of Cannon Beach, this was actually the very first beach I visited in Oregon, and I fell in love with the moody, jagged rocks off the coast, and the cozy, warm caverns that dotted the otherside of the beach. Another plus for this location is the woodsy goodness that lines the actual beach behind you, providing lots of variety for your coastal engagement session.

Elk Flats is just a little south of Hug Point, and is a perfect companion location. It’s got grassy hills and dramatic cliffs overlooking the ocean. I recommend going at sunrise for the softest light, but it’s beautiful any time! The trail to the cliff spot is short, about 10 minutes. It’s not a difficult trail, but can get muddy if it’s been raining a lot. Keep an eye out for Elk in the fields!

OSWALD WEST STATE PARK

Oswald West State Park is like the ultimate playground for engagement photography in Oregon. Picture this: towering trees, rugged cliffs, and endless ocean views creating the perfect backdrop for capturing love in its purest form. Whether it's cozying up on a secluded beach or exploring hidden forest trails hand in hand, this park has it all. As an Oregon engagement photographer, I'm totally smitten with Oswald West—its natural beauty just begs to be captured in every frame. So, if you're down for some epic shots surrounded by nature's finest, this place is where it's at!

CAPE KIWANDA

Another iconic coastal location is Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City Oregon. Not only do you get another iconic haystack rock off the coast, but you can DRIVE on this beach! In addition to the wide beach full of driftwood, you can hike up the sand dunes on the right side of the beach which lead to some of the most breathtaking views of bright seaside caverns, flowing green grass, and the cabins spread out below. If you go the route of a Cape Kiwanda Engagement session, I recommend staying in one of the airstreams across the road at Hart’s Camp. The outdoor shower with succulents will give you life!

LINCOLN CITY + GOD’S THUMB

Have you ever wished you were in Ireland int he blink of an eye? Or what if you could be there after a steep and sometimes muddy hike? In that case, hit up God’s Thumb. This is one of the most unique hikes on the Oregon coast, and was perfect for Lindsey and Drew’s springtime engagement session. We saw some bald eagles, took some whiskey shots, and drank in the perfect summer sunset along the coast and rolling green hills.

SAMUEL H BOARDMAN SCENIC CORRIDOR

This is one of the most magical places I’ve ever visited for Oregon engagement photos or Oregon elopement photos, but I want to caveat these photos with the disclaimer that this is not an easy hike. I also can’t confirm this, but I did this hike at the beginning of 2021 and at the end of 2021, and it seemed way steeper and more difficult the second time, almost like the land had worn away or shifted. BUT with that out of the way, if you’re down for a steep hike, this is one of the most rewarding views the coast has to offer. You can also drive across the border to California to visit the Redwoods too!

Mount Hood

OLD SALMON RIVER TRAIL + LOLO PASS ROAD

The Salmon River Trail starts with the Old Salmon River Trail for a few miles before turning into a longer backpacking trail, but both trailheads are my favorite spot in the Mount Hood National Forest. It’s straight out of twilight y’all, with moss covered logs, ferns covering the forest floor, and little waterfalls along the river. This is a scientifically designated rainforest, so plan for it to be misty and enjoy all the forest has to offer. If you’re looking to add some more open views to your session, hop across 26 and drive down Lolo Pass road where you can view the open valley and Mount Hood on a clear day.

Mirror Lake + Trillium Lake

Trillium Lake’s road is open May-October, but you can snowshoe the two miles down in the winter and I can’t recommend it enough in either season. If you’re choosing between sunrise and sunset, getting up before the sun is 100% worth it for the clear serene views and smaller crowds. If you’re looking for more of a hike, try Mirror Lake right nearby for a stunning out and back hike that offers forest, lakes, hills, and bridges. And on the drive up or back, pull off to the side of 26 to take in the views of all the trees.

BALD MOUNTAIN VIA TOP SPUR TRAIL

Bald Mountain (which leads to McNeal Point) is a wonderful trail on Mount Hood, that has an incredible pay off for a relatively short hike. Starting at the Top Spur trailhead makes it a much shorter hike, that starts in the forest and after a little less than a mile you emerge to the view point overlooking the valley with the mountain majestically in front of you. In the summer this is a great spot for wildflowers, and I recommend going at sunrise for the best light and fewer crowds!

TIMBERLINE LODGE

As one of the country’s only year-round ski lodges, Timberline is a perfect PNW location for your Oregon engagement photos. I personally prefer the summertime golden fields and late sunsets, but early in winter when the snow is just starting to fall is stunning. I would avoid going later in the winter though, as the snow can be too deep to actually want to walk around in!

WHITE RIVER WEST SNO PARK + TAMANAWAS FALLS

As you drive further around Mount Hood, you’ll see my favorite sno park—White River West. In the winter it’s perfect for sledding and snow shoeing, but in the summer it’s a dry riverbed that lets you explore with one of the best view of Mount Hood you can get without actually having to hike. If you want some more adventure, the next trailhead down the road is Tamanawas Falls with a roaring waterfall that you can hike behind in the warmer months!

HOOD RIVER

My favorite locations in Hood River are the lavender farms (I like Lavender Valley Farms) and Grateful Vineyard. On a clear day you can get gorgeous views of Mount Hood, and in the summer surround yourself in fields of dreamy lavender. Farms will charge you a location fee to photograph during golden hours (morning and evening) but in my professional opinion, it’s worth every penny. See Lauren and Kyle’s elopement at the lavender fields by clicking here!

The Columbia River Gorge

LATOURELL FALLS

Have you really been to Oregon if you haven’t enjoyed one of the Columbia River Gorge’s waterfalls? Latourell Falls is less than an hour outside of Portland, and an amazing spot for waterfall engagement photos that’s only a few minutes walk from the parking lot. This is a great spot if you don’t want to mess up your hair or make up right away (I’ll be honest, it’s going to happen eventually!) but that makes it pretty popular since it’s easier to access. There’s a second waterfall a short hike up that will have less traffic, so you can get a lot out of this loop. Check out Nicolette and Joseph’s session for all the waterfall session goodness.

GOVERNMENT COVE PENINSULA

This heavenly spot is privately owned land that functions like a public park. Most likely it will be wide open when you visit, but sometimes sections of the peninsula are booked for commercial shoots or private events. You can take pictures right on the water, or work your way up the peninsula for sweeping views at different elevations. I can’t decide if I like it better in the rain or in the sun! For Kristine and Dan’s engagement session, we started at Latourell Falls and ended at Government cove for sunset!

WAHCLELLA FALLS

I visited this waterfall with friends recently while scouting for their own elopement ceremony, and I can’t wait to be back. Although steep and rocky at some points, this is a relatively easy trail that makes for a good adventure and stunning views at end for your PNW engagement photos.

HORSETAIL FALLS

Horsetail Falls is like a dream come true for engagement photography in Oregon. Imagine this: you get our of your car and immediately there’s a majestic waterfall cascading down the sheer cliffs of the Columbia River Gorge, creating a magical atmosphere that's just perfect for capturing love in all its glory. As an Oregon engagement photographer, I'm constantly blown away by the beauty of this place—the way the sunlight dances on the water, the lush greenery surrounding the falls, it's all just so enchanting. Whether you're cuddling up by the base of the falls or stealing a kiss on one of the nearby trails, every moment here feels like it's straight out of a fairy tale. So if you're looking for a breathtaking backdrop for your engagement photos, Horsetail Falls is definitely the place to be!

ROWENA CREST VIEW POINT + TOM MCCALL RESERVE

All the way down at the end of the gorge is my favorite spot for golden fields and wildflowers in abundance. For cliffside views I recommend going at sunrise, and for golden fields I suggest sunset. The only thing to be aware of, being on a cliff by the river at the end of the gorge means WIND. The wind will make it extra chilly in the colder months, but can be fun in the summer as long as you’re prepared for it!

Portland

CATHEDRAL PARK

If you’re looking for a mix of open space, nature, and architecture, you might consider Cathedral Park in the St. John’s neighborhood in Portland! Cathedral Coffee is a great place to start nearby, and the golden hour rays are amazing off of the river. This is a popular wedding spot, so be careful of events or crowding on the weekends!

THE WATERFRONT

If you want to document some (or all!) of the bridges in Bridgetown, go for a stroll on the waterfront at sunset. You can end with the Portland sign at night, or start at your favorite brewery and find some colorful walls.

FOREST PARK

If you want all of the moody forest vibes without having to drive far, Forest Park is for you! One of the largest parks within city limits, you have lots of areas to explore from the Redwood Observation Deck and Hoyt Arboretum, to the Witches Castle or Ridge Trail, and countless other trails, you can find ferns and creeks and moss and more of the color green than you thought existed.

DOWNTOWN OR YOUR FAVORITE NEIGHBORHOOD

Think about how you’d spend a Saturday afternoon together, and do that! Get coffee, browse records and books, and find a great spot to catch the sunset together.

A COZY BAR, LIKE ABIGAIL HALL

Abigail Hall is like a hidden gem for engagement photography in Oregon. Tucked away in the heart of Portland, this historic venue exudes timeless elegance and charm. As an Oregon engagement photographer, I'm drawn to Abigail Hall's classic architecture, with its grand staircase, ornate chandeliers, and intricate details that add a touch of old-world romance to every shot. Whether you're stealing a kiss by the bar, or strolling down the busy street in the city lights, every moment at Abigail Hall feels like a scene from a bygone era. So if you're looking for a venue that combines vintage allure with modern romance for your engagement photos, Abigail Hall is the perfect setting to make your love story come to life.

A LOCAL WINERY, LIKE VILLA CATALANA

Villa Catalana in Oregon City is like stepping into a storybook for engagement photography. With its European-inspired architecture, lush gardens, and tranquil ponds, this place exudes romance from every corner. As an Oregon engagement photographer, I'm constantly in awe of Villa Catalana's charm—the way the sunlight filters through the trees, casting a soft glow on the stone pathways, and the way the flowers bloom in vibrant colors all year round. Whether you're strolling hand in hand through the gardens or stealing a kiss under the arched walkways, every moment at Villa Catalana feels like a scene from a fairy tale. So if you're dreaming of capturing your love story in a truly magical setting, look no further than Villa Catalana—it's the perfect backdrop for creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Central Oregon

Smith Rock State Park

Smith Rock State Park is a popular spot for engagement photos and elopements, and it’s easy to see why. Amazing desert views are accessible right near the parking lot, along with great trails you can hike down and around by the water or up higher on the rocks. Because it’s such a popular photo and climbing spot, you’ll want to go on a weekday to avoid the crowds. The golden tones last all year long, but in the spring and summer you’ll get different greens and flowers too! This is considered central Oregon.

CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK

Crater Lake is like nature's masterpiece for engagement photography in Oregon. Picture this: a stunningly blue lake nestled within the towering cliffs of a collapsed volcano, surrounded by pristine forests and rugged peaks. As an Oregon engagement photographer, I'm constantly amazed by the sheer beauty of Crater Lake—the way its waters shimmer in the sunlight, reflecting the sky like a mirror, and the way the surrounding landscape provides endless opportunities for breathtaking shots. Whether you're gazing out at the lake from one of the scenic overlooks or exploring the trails hand in hand, every moment at Crater Lake feels like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. So if you're looking to capture your love against a backdrop of awe-inspiring natural beauty, Crater Lake is definitely the place to be!

THE LAVA LANDS

If you’re heading out to Central Oregon, the Lava Lands outside of Bend are a must-see, and unlike anything else in the state I’ve seen. The historical significance of the ancient lava flow and how it formed this state we love so much is rad for anyone who is into science, history, or nature. And on top of that, it’s super fun to explore and a dreamy color palette to photograph. Look for the spiraled trees that have adapted to keep on more water, and try to count the number of flowers you see shooting through the lava rocks. On a clear day you can see Mt Adams, the south sister AND the middle sister. The sunset doesn’t disappoint. Check out Tiffany and Tom’s session for some amazing black tones and golden light.

THE PAINTED HILLS

A little further outside of Bend you’ll find the Painted Hills. A historical land monument, where the layers of colored clay tell you the era of the land. They tell a story of time and history, and also look SO RAD IN PHOTOS Y’ALL. You can’t touch or climb on the hills, but there are plentiful paths and trails to capture plenty of the landmarks behind you.

OUTSIDE THE BOX

A COZY AIRBNB

Oregon is full of the coziest Airbnbs. When I first started working in Oregon, I was splitting time between there while finishing up weddings in New England. This meant I stayed in a LOT of airbnbs while I explored the state deciding where I wanted to land full time. From tiny houses, to a-frame cabins, to airstreams, to woodland retreats, there are plenty of cozy spots to snuggle up with your fiance. I recommend this for winter sessions— you can run around in the snow outside, then come inside and cozy up! These photos of Stephanie and Ty were taken at The Woodlands House in Sandy, just 45 minutes outside of Portland and 20 minutes from Mount Hood.

YOUR HOME

You found each other, you made a life together, you bought a home together. Or rent a home together. Or rent a camper together. Document it! I always encourage my couples to capture their normal, and if your normal is hanging out at home watering your rescue tree, warming up by your firepit, or simply hanging out, I’d love to document it. Gwen and Ben took this summer night to have a water hose fight in their front yard and hang out in their newly finished back yard. It was so sweet to capture a simple, normal night— the kind that they’ll look back on so fondly years from now. In-home engagement sessions are about as personal as it gets!