Top Seattle Engagement Photoshoot Locations


A Solid Guide to the Best Photo Locations


There are SO many stunning Seattle engagement photoshoot locations to explore, offering a wide range of backdrops for your session. From iconic downtown views to the rugged beauty of the North Cascades, or even the serene Snoqualmie Pass, the greater Seattle area has something for every couple. Plus, just a bit further north, Bellingham, WA, offers breathtaking spots like the stunning coastline! Whether you’re looking for dramatic mountain vistas, lush forests, or urban charm, this guide will help you find the perfect spot to capture your love story.


Most of these locations are within a couple of hours of Seattle, making them accessible for a day of adventure. In this guide, I’ll cover:

  • My professional recommendations based on years of exploring these spots.
  • Info on permits, passes, and parking so you’re fully prepared.


Living in the Seattle area is a dream for a photographer. I’m surrounded by incredible locations at every turn—mountains, forests, lakes, and waterfalls. It’s no wonder this region is one of the best in the country for engagement photos. Let’s dive into the details you’ll need before heading out to your chosen location!

Permits & Passes for Your Seattle Engagement Photos


Thankfully, engagement photo sessions don’t typically require special permits since they don’t involve large groups or reserved spaces like weddings or elopements. However, there are a few entrance fees and parking passes you may need to consider depending on the location.


Discover Pass for Washington State Parks

To park at any Washington State Park, you’ll need a Discover Pass. It’s $10 for a single day or $30 for an annual pass. You can purchase it online or at the park entrance.


Mount Rainier National Park

If your session is at Mount Rainier, you’ll need a vehicle pass: $30 for a single day or $55 for an annual pass. Both options are available online or at the park entrance.


Olympic National Park

For Olympic National Park, you’ll also need a vehicle pass. The cost is $30 for a single day or $55 for an annual pass, available online or in person.


North Cascades National Park

Good news—there’s no entrance fee for North Cascades National Park! It’s one of the few national parks in the U.S. that doesn’t charge admission.


1. Mt. Rainier – Paradise


Mt. Rainier is a breathtaking backdrop for any engagement session, offering unparalleled views of Washington’s most iconic peak. At Paradise, you’ll find fields of wildflowers in the summer, endless evergreen forests, and sweeping mountain vistas. Sunset sessions here are unforgettable, with soft golden light highlighting the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Be sure to visit during wildflower season for vibrant pops of color, and don’t miss the whimsical Dr. Seuss truffula flowers dotting the landscape.


Tip: A National Park Pass is required for entry. Summer and early fall are the best seasons to visit for clear weather.

2. Rattlesnake Lake and Ridge



This quintessential PNW spot offers versatility for your session. The serene lake is perfect for photos with reflections of the surrounding mountains, while the stumps scattered around in winter add a unique texture to your shots. For adventurous couples, hiking up to Rattlesnake Ridge rewards you with panoramic views of the valley below—a truly epic backdrop.


Tip: The hike to the ridge is 2 miles each way, so wear sturdy shoes and plan for plenty of time if you want those jaw-dropping ridge-top photos.

Two people stand together on a rocky outcrop overlooking a mountain lake surrounded by evergreen forest.
A couple shares a romantic moment by a serene mountain lake surrounded by evergreen forests and rugged peaks.

3. Gold Creek Pond


Gold Creek Pond is a photographer’s favorite for its easy access and stunning scenery. Surrounded by evergreen forests and majestic mountains, the pond offers endless opportunities for dreamy photos. A short, flat walking path encircles the pond, making it perfect for a relaxed session.


Tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds, and plan your session in the late afternoon or early evening for soft, flattering light.


4. Deception Pass State Park



This stunning park, located about 1.5 hours from Seattle, boasts rugged coastal cliffs, dense forests, and jaw-dropping sunsets over the water. The iconic high bridge spanning Deception Pass is a must-see and makes for dramatic photos. Whether you’re exploring the shoreline or venturing into the old-growth forest, the diverse landscapes make this spot a photographer’s dream.


Tip: Discover Pass required for entry. Be sure to arrive early for the best light and parking availability.


5. Enter the Studio / Pioneer Square



For a chic, urban vibe, consider booking a session at a studio in Pioneer Square. With its exposed brick walls, white interiors, and cozy settings, it’s perfect for intimate, modern photos. Afterward, take a stroll through Pioneer Square, Seattle’s historic district, with its charming architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant energy.


Tip: Combine indoor and outdoor shots for a versatile gallery of engagement photos.

6. Artist Point – North Cascades



Located near Mt. Baker, Artist Point is one of the most stunning spots in the North Cascades. This location offers jaw-dropping views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and the vibrant blue waters of nearby Diablo Lake. Whether you’re visiting in summer for lush greenery or in winter for a snowy wonderland, it’s worth the drive.


Tip: Winter access requires a 1.8-mile hike to the viewpoint. Plan for an adventure if you visit during the colder months!


A couple embraces on rocky coastal cliffs during golden hour sunset with ocean and trees in background.

7. Larrabee State Park



Nestled in the Chuckanut Mountains near Bellingham, Larrabee State Park is an amazing coastal gem. With forest trails, two freshwater lakes, and stunning sunset views over the Salish Sea, it’s a versatile spot for engagement photos.


Tip: Visit in the evening for golden hour light reflecting off the water and rocks along the shoreline.

8. Teddy Bear Cove – Bellingham



This hidden gem in Bellingham offers gorgeous views of the Salish Sea and the surrounding islands. With its intimate beaches, forested trails, and rocky bluffs, Teddy Bear Cove provides a secluded, romantic setting for your engagement photos.


Tip: Aim for sunset to capture the glow of the sun setting over the water, creating a magical atmosphere.


A couple walks hand in hand along a scenic lakeside trail with mountains and a twisted tree in the background.
Two people walk hand in hand along a scenic coastal trail during golden hour as sunlight filters through trees.

9. Discovery Park


As Seattle’s largest park, Discovery Park offers an incredible variety of landscapes, from grassy meadows to sandy beaches and dense forests. Perched on Magnolia Bluff, the park provides panoramic views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and even Mt. Rainier on a clear day.


Tip: Summer and fall are the best seasons to visit for golden light and vibrant foliage.


10. Volunteer Park



Located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, Volunteer Park combines natural beauty with historic architecture. The lush gardens, scenic overlooks, and iconic conservatory provide diverse backdrops for your photos. Don’t miss the water tower for a unique view of the Seattle skyline and Space Needle


Tip: A permit is required for photos inside the conservatory, so plan ahead if you’d like indoor shots.


A couple stands in front of a charming greenhouse with autumn foliage and stone walls in a romantic garden setting.

Ready to book your session?


Get in touch here to reserve your date and start planning your dream engagement photos!