Seattle is one of those rare places where you can have towering evergreens, sweeping water views, iconic city landmarks, and quiet, romantic corners all within a short drive. As a photographer, I love helping couples choose a location that feels like them—a place where you can relax, connect, and let the moments unfold naturally. Whether you’re drawn to moody coastlines, lush gardens, or classic urban backdrops, this roundup highlights some of the best engagement session locations in Seattle and the surrounding Pacific Northwest, plus a few unforgettable destinations just outside the city.

How to Choose the Best Engagement Session Location in Seattle

Before diving into my list of the best engagement session locations in Seattle, it’s worth taking a moment to think about what will feel most you as a couple. The best photos come from places where you feel comfortable, connected, and genuinely yourselves.

Start with your lifestyle and shared story. Are there places that already hold meaning for you? Where did you meet, or where do you love spending time together on a regular basis? Maybe you’re outdoorsy and happiest on a trail or near the water, or maybe you’re more at home wandering city streets or hopping on a ferry. There’s no right or wrong choice, just what fits you best.

It’s also helpful to think about your wedding venue. If you’re getting married somewhere very urban, choosing a more natural engagement session location can give you variety in your final gallery. On the flip side, if your wedding will be surrounded by trees or mountains, a city-based engagement session can offer a completely different look.

Season matters, too. Some locations truly shine at certain times of year, while others may be less accessible in winter or during heavy rain. If you’re on a specific timeline, we’ll want to choose a spot that looks beautiful and feels comfortable during that season.

And if your dog is part of your story, be sure to factor that in. Seattle has plenty of pet-friendly locations, but not every park or garden allows dogs, so choosing the right place ahead of time keeps the session relaxed and stress-free.

With those considerations in mind, here are some of my favorite engagement session locations in Seattle and the surrounding area, each offering a distinct look, feel, and experience.

Discovery Park Engagement Photos

If you want variety without hopping locations, Discovery Park is hard to beat. Forested trails, open meadows, dramatic bluffs, and sweeping Puget Sound views all live in one place. It’s perfect for couples who want a natural, Pacific Northwest feel with a little bit of everything.

Why it works: Soft light, expansive views, and lots of quiet pockets for intimate moments.

See more Discovery Park engagement photos here and here and here.

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Lincoln Park Engagement Session

My FAVORITE! Located in West Seattle, Lincoln Park offers waterfront paths, towering trees, and views of the Olympic Mountains on clear days. It feels relaxed and a little more tucked away, which makes it ideal for couples who want something scenic but low-key.

Why it works: Sunset light, beach access, and fewer crowds than some central Seattle parks.

See more Lincoln Park engagement photos here.

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Washington Park Arboretum Engagement Photos

This is a favorite for couples who love greenery and a romantic, garden-like feel. Seasonal changes really shine here, from spring blooms to golden fall tones.

Why it works: Quiet trails, lush textures, and a timeless look that photographs beautifully year-round.

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Bellevue Botanical Gardens Engagement Session

Just across Lake Washington, this location is perfect if you love curated gardens without feeling overly formal. It’s peaceful, elegant, and incredibly photogenic.

Why it works: Thoughtfully designed landscapes and a calm atmosphere that helps couples feel at ease.

See more photos from this Bellevue Botanical Garden engagement session here.

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Volunteer Park Engagement Photos

Volunteer Park blends greenery with historic architecture, making it a great choice for couples who want both natural and urban elements. The conservatory and nearby museum add visual interest without overpowering the session.

Why it works: Open lawns, tree-lined paths, and a classic Seattle feel.

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Olympic Sculpture Park Engagement Session

For something modern and editorial, Olympic Sculpture Park delivers. Clean lines, open space, waterfront views, and city backdrops create a striking contrast that feels fresh and bold.

Why it works: Minimalist design, dramatic compositions, and sunset light over Elliott Bay.

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Seattle Ferry Engagement Session

Few things feel more quintessentially Pacific Northwest than a ferry ride. Wind in your hair, water stretching in every direction, and Seattle fading into the distance,it’s simple, meaningful, and incredibly romantic.

Why it works: Movement, candid moments, and a true sense of place.

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San Juan Islands Engagement Photos

For couples up for an adventure, the San Juan Islands offer rugged coastlines, quiet beaches, and sweeping views that feel worlds away. These sessions often feel more like a weekend getaway than a photo shoot.

Why it works: Seclusion, natural beauty, and a deeply intimate atmosphere.

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Deception Pass Engagement Session

Bold, dramatic, and unmistakably Northwest, Deception Pass is perfect for couples who love big landscapes and a sense of awe. Cliffs, water, and evergreens create a powerful backdrop.

Why it works: Epic scenery and a dramatic, adventurous feel.

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Snoqualmie Pass Winter Engagement Photos

Winter engagement sessions can be incredibly magical, and Snoqualmie Pass delivers just that. Snow-covered trees, cozy layers, and soft light make these sessions feel intimate and romantic.

Why it works: Seasonal beauty and a quiet, storybook atmosphere.

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University of Washington Engagement Photos

With its historic architecture, cherry blossoms in spring, and beautifully landscaped grounds, the University of Washington offers a refined and timeless look.

Why it works: Elegant backdrops, symmetry, and seasonal variety.

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How to Choose the Best Engagement Session Location in Seattle

The best engagement session location isn’t just about what looks good in photos,it’s about how it feels. Think about places you love spending time together, the kind of environment where you feel most like yourselves, and what story you want your images to tell.

If you’re unsure, I’m always happy to help guide you based on season, lighting, and your overall vision. Together, we’ll choose a location that feels natural, meaningful, and uniquely yours.