Engagement Photos in Colonial Williamsburg: Hidden Gems You’ll Love

Hey there, engaged couples! If you’re getting engaged and looking for a beautiful spot to capture your big moment in Colonial Williamsburg, I’ve got you covered. As a photographer who’s spent tons of time exploring this historic town, I can tell you there are so many amazing, off-the-beaten-path locations to make your engagement photos truly special.

I recently had the pleasure of working with an adorable couple who were up for a little exploration around Colonial Williamsburg, and we ended up with some gorgeous photos. We took full advantage of some side gardens, tucked-away paths, and even some cool little fenced-in areas.

You may think Colonial Williamsburg is only the well known spots – the Williamsburg Inn, the Place, the Capital Building… yes, these are gorgeous. But, along the famous Duke of Gloucester Street, you’ll also find some hidden gems behind the historic buildings.

There are side gardens and tucked-away spots that make for the most romantic backdrops. The charm of these little garden areas is that they’re often quieter, giving you more privacy and space for intimate moments. One of my favorite things about these spots is how lush and well-kept they are, with greenery that makes your photos pop. Here are a few of my favorite spots that make for the perfect engagement photo locations:

1. The White Arches

If you’re wandering past Merchant’s Square between there and the Place Green, you’ve likely noticed a quaint garden with fun white arches. These arches are perfect for a classic, romantic photo with a bit of elegance. Whether you’re standing underneath the archway or playing around in the open space, these arches add a beautiful aesthetic to your engagement photos in Colonial Williamsburg.

In the session I recently did, we captured the couple in multiple poses under the arches — the light pouring through made for a dreamy, romantic vibe. It’s a location that’s simple yet so charming!

2. The Flowers of CW

If you love vibrant colors, there are several gardens along the way that CW maintains virtually year-round. The garden we visited has bright blooms that stay in full swing most of the year, from spring tulips to summer and fall varieties of glowers. No matter the season, there’s always something beautiful, making it a fantastic backdrop for your engagement photos.

The flowers gave us a nice pop of color for these images, while still keeping everything feeling romantic and personal.

3. Rustic Fences

If you’re into a more rustic, country vibe, there’s a super cute spot with a weathered, charming fence (adding a little contrast to the white pickets you see around the area). It’s tucked away just off the Palace Green, and it’s perfect for those looking for a more down-to-earth, natural setting. The worn wood and soft light coming through the trees provides a stunning contrast for portraits, especially if you want to mix a bit of Colonial charm with a more relaxed, rustic feel.

During this engagement session, we had the couple sit on the rustic bench, giving a natural, easygoing vibe to the photos. The lighting and colors just made the images feel intimate and cozy — a perfect combination for engagement photos in Colonial Williamsburg!

Ready to Explore? Just Open the Gates!

One of the best things about Colonial Williamsburg is that there’s always something new to discover. Many of these side gardens and hidden spots are just a short walk away from the main streets, and all you need to do is open a few gates (just be sure to watch for any signs indicating private areas).

The beauty of these locations is that they’re often quieter and a little less crowded than the more touristy spots. It gives you the chance to really enjoy each other’s company and let your personalities shine through in your photos.

Let’s Make Some Magic Together!

Whether you’re drawn to the traditional spots, white arches, colorful garden flowers, or rustic charm, Colonial Williamsburg has some amazing spots to create unforgettable engagement photos. I’m always up for exploring new places with my couples, and I’d love to help capture your love story in these beautiful settings.

If you’re ready to book your engagement session or just want more ideas on where to go, reach out! Let’s make some magic happen in Colonial Williamsburg!

Congrats again on your engagement!