I’ve had many couples ask for recommendations for engagement session locations in Boston, I’m really glad they turned to me for suggestions. I believe that engagement sessions are more than just pretty locations and outfits, they should speak who you are, hold a special place in your heart, or somewhat relatable to who you are or what you do. For instance, if you proposed/got proposed at a park, or if you have your first date there, you might want to do your engagement session there as well. That being said, there are other factors that should be considered before we decide if it’s a picture-worthy location. Lighting is a major factor. Depending on the weather, if it’s a hot sunny day, somewhere with lots of open shades would be awesome. If it’s overcast, most places are fine. I find open areas like beaches work especially well on overcast days. One more thing to consider is how comfortable you are with public display of affection. If you feel uncomfortable when people watch you in a busy area, then we can try somewhere more private. The goal is to make things work to your advantage and you feel 100% yourself so I’m able to capture who you are, not just where you are.
I’ve compiled a list of my favorite engagement session locations in Boston. They are in no particular order of preference.
1. Harvard Square/Harvard University campus
Harvard square can be a little busier than other places listed below, especially on the weekends, but you can always find somewhere picture-worthy. For starters, there are many great cafes and restaurants to start the session with a drink or two – great way to loosen up, especially for guys. Harvard campus is right next to the Harvard Square T stop. It’s terrific for young, hip, and fun couples. Sometimes there are music festivals on campus and you can bust out a few moves. Check out some photos from Christina & Dave’s Harvard Square engagement session.
Carson Beach is one of my most favorite beaches in Boston. It’s clean, rarely crowded, and conveniently located by the JFK stop on the red line. I used to go to Castle Island a lot, which is a small walk from Carson Beach. The sunset there is spectacular – perfect for romantic engagement sessions. Like I mentioned above, beaches work especially well on overcast days. Don’t believe me? Go see it for yourself and check out Ben & Justin’s engagement session at Castle Island.
3. New England Aquarium waterfront
There’s pretty much everything you can find in the North End, from awesome Italian restaurants to famous tourist attractions, there’s nothing not to love about this place. One of my absolute favorite places to hang out in the North End is the New England Aquarium waterfront. There are so many fun things to do there you can never get bored of this place. Lizzie & Neil’s engagement session at the New England Aquarium waterfront was the perfect example.
4. ICA (Institute of Contemporary Art)
The ICA is perfect if you like contemporary arts and films. The first time I was there was in middle school when I took a summer film-making class. We were assigned to make a short film in the surrounding areas and I instantly fell in love with that place. Also, because of the way the buildings are structured that provides big open shades, there’s awesome natural light no matter what time of the day or year. Take a look at Melissa & Jan’s Boston ICA engagement session to see it for yourself.
If you’re a nature lover, Arnold Arboretum is right for you. It’s a gigantic park with lots and lots of trees, I mean it’s so big you can’t explore the whole place in one day. I’ve been there several times and I still get lost. Expect to excise those calf muscles of yours because there’s a lot of walking. If your engagement session happens to be in the fall, this place is even prettier with golden orange and red leaves. You must take a look at Erin & Pat’s engagement session at the Arnold Arboretum.
6. Fenway Park
Red Sox fans, you might want to consider this place for your engagement session. What I love most about Fanway Park are its vibrant colors and rich culture. This is one of the images I shot for Panorama Magazine and I just love how vividly colorful it is. The only thing to watch out for, especially on the weekends and game days, is how crowded this place can get. Make sure you check their schedule before you schedule your engagement session.
Engagement session with the comfort of your own home? Check! This works best if you hold special memories of the place or even your parent’s place. Like Allison & Ryan, who spent a lot of time at their parent’s house in Quincy, decided to do their engagement session there. They had a nice swimming pool and a pretty backyard so it worked really well. The good thing about this is you wouldn’t have to worry about holding your purse or carrying your extra outfits. Switch up those shoes whenever you want. Too sober? Open that fridge and crack open a beer :p Your home, your choice!
Bonus:
I put together a Pinterest board with some wardrobe inspirations for those of you who would like to style it up.
Kriti Parashar - Hi ,
I like your work. I want some engagement photos.
Could you help?
Sam Liang - I’m so glad you like these photographs. We can definitely do an engagement session for you :) I just emailed you.