Best Engagement Photography Locations in Oregon

When it comes to exploring engagement photography destinations, make sure to include Oregon on your list. This gem of the Pacific Northwest does not disappoint. From Portland to Brookings and all stops in between, Oregon’s natural beauty takes center stage. You’ll find a wide range of beautifully scenic backdrops, from vast flower fields and nature reserves to art districts, public parks, and more! It’s hard to go wrong when looking for great places to shoot. Follow along as we guide you through the best engagement photography locations in Oregon.

Lavender Valley

Lavender Valley perfectly balances serenity and beauty. This location offers a breathtaking array of deep blue skies and lavenders that dot the property’s lush purple fields. In addition to their visual appeal, the flowers lend a pleasant aroma to further enhance the experience of visiting this unique locale! Full of rich colors and open space, Lavender Valley perfectly lends itself to epic engagement photography.  

  Take a romantic walk through the sea of purple flowers with your partner and commemorate your commitment for each other in this amazing location. After the engagement session, you can visit Lavender Valley’s gift shop and pick-up some souvenirs that will remind you even more of this special place for years to come! Photo by: Jos and Tree Address: 5965 Boneboro Rd, Mt Hood, OR 97041, USA Official site: https://www.lavendervalley.com/

Latourell Falls

Latourell Falls is one of the most accessible waterfalls in Oregon, and it’s also unique! Water from this tall, single plunge waterfall plunges 224 feet before crashing into an undercut amphitheater at its base! The sight of this amazing engagement photography location in Oregon will stay with you for a lifetime.  

  In addition, the Latourell Creek loop hike takes you to see the two-tiered Upper Latourell Falls, followed by a climb down below the state park’s picnic area. You can also marvel at green splashes from chartreuse colored golden cobblestone lichen on dark basalt walls, as it shines in contrast against the ground that surrounds this beautiful body of water! Photo by: Jos and Tree Address: Latourell Falls, Oregon 97019, USA Official site: https://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Latourell_Falls_Loop_Hike

Columbia River Gorge

The Columbia River Gorge is one of Oregon’s (if not America’s) most iconic natural areas. One look and you’ll understand why its popularity as an engagement photography destination is growing. Take a walk on the wild side and head outdoors with your partner to take in the Gorge’s gorgeous views, which you can find both on and off the beaten path! From the Columbia River Gorge’s Crown Point, you’ll be able to see one of nature’s most majestic rivers unfold before your eyes. Of course, don’t forget to head down to the river itself for another incredible backdrop.  

  Get your heart pumping at the Gorge! Walk along this beautiful coastline or go and check one of their many hidden waterfalls. The Columbia River Gorge is a place where you will be able to explore and enjoy yourself at any given moment. You don’t need to worry about getting lost as well, as their tour guides know every secret path through these lush forests! Photo by: Jos and Tree Address: Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Hood River, OR 97031, USA Official site: https://traveloregon.com/places-to-go/regions/columbia-river-gorge/

Mt. Hood Skibowl

The picturesque views of Mt. Hood, combined with luxurious facilities make Skibowl the perfect place for your next get together or special occasion. The event planning team here offers professional assistance in any wedding plans you may have – from small-scale affairs to grand celebrations! All who visit this venue find it hard to leave, as they are captured by the endless opportunities for photographs and memories. The experience here becomes even more special when couples decide to choose Skibowl as an engagement session location.  

  Mt. Hood Skibowl provides an outdoor event space for guests to enjoy stunning views of Oregon’s famous Cascade Mountain Range. This place is also perfect if you’re looking for something more private for your special day, as it offers many customizable options that will allow couples the freedom they need in order to celebrate their love the way they want! Photo by: Jos and Tree Address: 88335 Government Camp Loop, Government Camp, OR 97028, USA Official site: https://www.skibowl.com/

Alberta Arts District

The Alberta Arts District is a place where different cultures unite in Portland. The brightly-colored structures and designs reflect the Latino, Asian, and African-American heritage of this dynamic neighborhood that thrives on innovation! Alberta is a place where nature and modernity coexist in perfect balance. The buildings here feel like they’ve been carved right out of stone, and with their clean lines, you can see that this district has always had an eye for design. You can casually walk around the area and freely capture those cheerful moments for your engagement session in full detail.  

  Interestingly, the Alberta Arts District has grown from a poverty-stricken area of the city to one that is now thriving with creative artisans and entrepreneurs. The artistic heart of this town is now booming with imaginative people, and the resulting landscape makes for one of Oregon’s best engagement photography locations. Photo by: Jos and Tree Address: Alberta Arts District, Portland, OR, USA Official site: https://www.travelportland.com/neighborhoods/alberta-arts-district/

Cathedral Park

If you want to enjoy an outdoor engagement session, then Cathedral Park is definitely worth visiting. This 23-acre greenspace has everything one could hope for. It’s a wonderland of natural beauty with views that seem to go on forever! And don’t forget about its iconic steel suspension bridge – as it offers undisputed stunning scenes from miles around. Also, an impressive amphitheater is located right at the base of St. John’s Bridge, whose cathedral-like arches have inspired it its name. The arches are as tall and wide as trees, with an even shadow that falls over guests walking underneath it.  

  The Cathedral Park is an unparalleled venue that is sure to impress. In fact, the stunning natural beauty of this area has made it one of the most sought after wedding destinations in the country, too. Your search for that diverse and quintessential Portland engagement spot will find a worthy option with this breathtaking location! Photo by: Jos and Tree Address: Cathedral Park, Portland, OR, USA Official site: https://www.portland.gov/parks/cathedral-park

Forest Park

As the largest urban forest in America, Portland’s Forest Park is a 5,200 acre sanctuary for both residents and visitors. It stretches along Tualatin Mountains east of Portland and offers plenty of spaces to explore. There’s a whole world of adventure waiting for your engagement photography session in these woods. You’ll find trails winding through deciduous trees, as well as fire lanes and roads that will lead to your destination. You can even strike a yoga pose if you want, or maybe a romantic one instead – all depending on the theme of your engagement photo shoot.  

  A Northwest forest is a photographer’s dream! If you have never been to one before, Forest Park should be at the top of your list. You can explore every area while taking in everything from trees to flowers all around it. The relaxing atmosphere of this forest is what makes it so great. You can appreciate all that you see with just one walk through. If you enjoy a good stroll, then this is one place that will not disappoint! Photo by: Jos and Tree Address: 833 SW 11th Ave, Portland, OR 97205, USA Official site: https://forestparkconservancy.org/forest-park/

Lost Lake Resort and Campground

From every angle, nature’s beauty is on full display at Lost Lake Resort and Campground. With a spectacular view of Mt. Hood and the surrounding wilderness, this engagement photography location will give you an experience not soon forgotten.  

  One of the best things about Lost Lake are the trails that run through a stretch of Oregon’s impressive old growth redwoods. The path meanders through this peaceful location with gentle curves and turns, making it a great place for walking, biking, or posing for engagement photos. The peaceful solitude of this country setting lends itself perfectly to romantic vacations or family time. Visitors can choose between campsites, hotels, and everything in-between, with plenty of options either way! Photo by: Jos and Tree Address: Lost Lake Resort, 9000 Lost Lake Rd, Hood River, OR 97031, USA Official site: https://lostlakeresort.org/

Timberline Lodge

Timberline Lodge is a picturesque landmark in Oregon, sitting high atop the majestic mountain slopes of Mt. Hood National Forest. This stunning location offers guests an unmatched view for miles. Also, it serves as one of America’s most historic resorts due to its dedication from President Franklin D. Roosevelt several years ago. The lodge provides a picturesque backdrop as both a wedding venue and one of the best engagement photography locations in Oregon!  

  In addition, the Timberline Lodge is a serene, rustic location that will surely make your wedding day unforgettable. The inviting atmosphere and plethora of amenities are sure to create an event for guests to remember for a long time. The Lodge is the perfect place to host various festivities as well, they cater birthdays, bridal showers, family gatherings, and more. Not only does it have an indoor venue where you can get married, but also many outdoor areas for photos and celebrations! Photo by: Jos and Tree Address: 27500 Timberline Hwy, Government Camp, OR 97028, USA Official site: https://www.timberlinelodge.com/

Keys Lounge

Keys Lounge is a popular and stylish bar that will have you feeling like a celebrity! Escape to Keys for exquisite cocktails, or enjoy one of their amazing outdoor patios. For over 50 years, this cocktail lounge has been dishing out class! Plan an intimate engagement session here and let the fiery red lights and romantic atmosphere provide the perfect backdrop for your special occasion.  

  Keys Lounge is more than just bar, it’s an experience! With its “laid-back retro” vibe and friendly staff members, you’ll feel right at home in this historic location. Not only does this establishment have delicious food on their menu, but they also feature exceptional live music. Come and experience for yourself the warmth and funky atmosphere, and understand firsthand why we’ve included this spot on our list of the best engagement photography locations in Oregon! Photo by: Jos and Tree Address: 533 NE Killingsworth St, Portland, OR 97211, USA Official site: https://www.keyspdx.com/

Other Special Locations

If you really want to make an impression on your significant other as you transition towards married life, the day of your engagement session should be perfect! The location you choose should be “special” and represent both of you. The best engagement photography locations in Oregon offer everything from the wild outdoors to sophisticated culture and fine dining. Whatever your interests, you’ll find something here that will suit both of your interests! Here are some additional special locations to consider for capturing engagement photos in Oregon.

Portland International Airport

If you and your fiancé enjoy traveling, what’s better than Portland International Airport for engagement photos? The airport’s modern architecture and focus on traveling makes this location an unusually ideal spot for your shoot. Portland’s International Airport (PDX) gives photographers a chance to experiment and explore while you play the role of travel-bound models. PDX has been voted as America’s best airport for seven years running! While an airport may not seem like the most exciting place at first glance, it is undoubtedly unique.  

Photo by: Jos and Tree

Mary’s Club

Portland is a city full of surprises, and one such surprise might be Portland’s strip clubs! One thing on everyone’s list should be checking out this city’s strip clubs – they have more per capita than anywhere else throughout the country! The perfect place for getting in touch with your wildly fun side, Mary’s Club is an “extremely unconventional” place for an engagement session. Notably, Mary’s Club is the oldest strip club in town and a local favorite, too. No doubt, including this stop on your list of the best engagement photography locations in Oregon will make it a night that will stay with you and your partner for years.  

Photo by: Jos and Tree

Tilikum Crossing Bridge

The Tilikum Crossing Bridge is a beautiful structure in Portland that connects the forward-thinking urban transit system to the city. Being both large and car free, it stands out as an amazing feat for anyone who visits this bridge! Also, Earth’s natural wonders are on full display here as well, as evidenced in everything from the ospreys’ nesting poles to an art installation that amplifies the sounds of its waters. Moreover, the bridge features lights that change color and pattern based on the river’s current speed. You won’t regret including the Tilikum Crossing Bridge in your engagement photos.  

Photo by: Jos and Tree

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If you select one (or more) of the best engagement photography locations in Oregon that we’ve featured above, you and your partner will experience some of nature’s most beautiful landscapes and you’ll have the photos to prove it. While the outdoors may not be for everybody, the Columbia River Gorge is hard to beat in terms of offering epic backdrops for engagement photos. For outdoor enthusiasts, Oregon’s diverse landscapes promise an adventure you’ll remember fondly for the rest of your days.