20+ Unique Orlando Engagement Photo Locations

Orlando engagement photo locations are like hidden gems waiting to be uncovered in the heart of “The City Beautiful.” Forget the clichés and dive into unique locations that won’t look like the 900 sessions you see in random fields throughout the year. Keep calm and carry on as I break down 20 unique engagement spots for your photoshoot in Orlando.

In this article I’ll share my expertise in choosing Orlando engagement session locations based on 8+ years of experience and over 180 different engagement sessions I have photographed as an Orlando engagement photographer.

How to choose a location for your engagement photos

Choosing the right engagement photo location hinges on sentimental value and the mood you wish to convey. Consider practical elements like accessibility and lighting, and consult your photographer for expert insights. The perfect spot seamlessly blends personal significance with visual allure.

Where to take engagement photos in Orlando

Parks & Gardens for Engagement Photos

Harry P. Leu Gardens

Harry P Leu Gardens is a botanical oasis spanning nearly 50 acres, located minutes from Downtown Orlando. The garden, deeded to the City of Orlando by Mr. Harry P. Leu and his wife, Mary Jane, is designed to inspire visitors to appreciate and understand plants.

• 1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
• leugardens.org
• Permit or Fees $15.00
• Least Crowded Fridays are currently “a little busy”. 

Bok Tower Gardens

Bok Tower Gardens is a serene garden located in Lake Wales, Florida. It is renowned for its “singing” tower, which features carillon bells played several times a day. They offer a harmonious blend of artistic, cultural, and spiritual enrichment.

• 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853
• boktowergardens.org
• Permit or Fees $17:00 for admission
• Early mornings or weekdays might be less crowded than weekends or holidays

Dickson Azeala

Dickson Azalea Park is a historic oasis in Orlando, originally serving as a watering hole for cattle herders and becoming an official city park in 1924 The park’s uniqueness stems from its rich history, the picturesque azaleas planted throughout, and the iconic Washington Street Bridge.

• 100 Rosearden Drive, Orlando, FL 32803
• https://www.orlando.gov/Parks-the-Environment/Directory/Dickson-Azalea-Park
• Fridays are currently less busy than usual, especially during the early morning hours (around 6 a.m.) and late evening hours (after 6 p.m.).

Lake Mirror

Lake mirror is located in Lakeland, Florida. It’s got a touch of Roman-inspired architecture and multiple gardens around the lake to really round out an engagement session.

• 242818201000016031, Lakeland, FL 33801

Museums and Historic Photo Locations near Orlando

Polk Theatre

The Polk Theatre, located in Lakeland, Florida, is a historic gem with a 1928-era Mediterranean charm. Its unique architecture makes it a really fun place to shoot, combining history and the atmosphere of a theatre.

• 121 South Florida Ave. Lakeland, FL 33801
• polktheatre.org
• Fridays are “Not too busy”during most of the day.

Fantasy of Flight

Fantasy of Flight is a captivating museum in Central Florida that showcases a large collection of vintage aircraft. Its unique setting amidst the backdrop of flight history makes it an enchanting location for engagement photography, capturing the essence of adventure and romance.

• I-4, Polk City, FL 33868
• fantasyofflight.com
• The entrance fee for the general admission is $12 plus tax. Seniors are charged $10 plus tax, children (6-12) are charged $8 plus tax, and children under 5 enter for free. It is SEASONALLY operated right now, but you may be able to book a private session.

Rollins College

Nestled in the heart of Winter Park, Rollins College is the perfect blend of historic architecture, Lake Virginia, and manicured gardens. It’s a space that always feels fresh and I continually find new and interesting things for each visit.

• 1000 Holt Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
• rollins.edu
• No Permit or Fees required

Casa Feliz

Casa Feliz, or “Happy House,” stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of James Gamble Rogers II, located in the heart of Winter Park this Andalusian-style masonry farmhouse, with its rustic details and whitewashed brick face, offers something a little unexpected, making it a sought-after spot for engagement photography.

• 656 N Park Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
• casafeliz.us

Art & History Museums of Maitland

The Art & History Museums of Maitland offers a blend of captivating art and local history displays, making it a unique spot for engagement photography. With its one of a kind architecture and diverse art collections, the venue provides a little something for everyone.

• 231 W Packwood Ave, Maitland, FL 32751
• artandhistory.org

Urban or Downtown Orlando engagement photo Locations

Orlando Public Library

The Orlando Public Library offers a vast collection and diverse resources, but its also one of the most interesting modern pieces of architecture in Orlando. Personally, I believe the staircase is so jaw-droppingly beautiful it could be a location all on its own. It’s one of the most unique engagement locations I work at as an Orlando engagement photographer.

• 101 E Central Blvd, Orlando, FL 32801
• ocls.info

Winter Park Events Center

The Winter Park Events Center is a modern and elegant venue located in the vibrant city of Winter Park. Its central location and sophisticated design make it an ideal choice for engagement photos near Orlando.

• 1050 W Morse Blvd, Winter Park, FL 32789
• winterparkeventscenter.org
• No Permit or Fees required
• Venues like this are less crowded on weekdays during working hours

Lake Eola

Lake Eola Park, located in the heart of Downtown Orlando, offers an epic location with its iconic fountain, live swans, and a panoramic view of the city’s skyline. The park’s diverse landscapes, from the Walt Disney Amphitheater to its vibrant flower beds, make it a versatile and captivating location for engagement photoshoots.

• 512 East Washington Street, Orlando, FL 32801 
• https://www.orlando.gov/Parks-the-Environment/Directory/Lake-Eola-Park

Lake Nona

Lake Nona is a forward-thinking community in Orlando, Florida, characterized by its innovative collaborations and vibrant culture. As a hub of technology and well-being, it offers a unique location for engagement photography, capturing the essence of modern living amidst natural beauty.

• Lake Nona Region, Orlando, FL
• https://www.lakenona.com

Downtown Winter Garden

Downtown Winter Garden offers a vibrant blend of rich history and modern attractions, making it a captivating backdrop for engagement photography. Its blend of historic charm and contemporary eateries and shops provides a dynamic setting that captures both the essence of old-world Florida and the allure of modern urban life.

• 320 Windford Ct, Winter Garden, FL 34787
• https://www.cwgdn.com

Dr Philips Center

The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is a grand, multilevel performing arts venue in Orlando, known for its Broadway plays, concerts, and dance performances. Its modern architecture and spacious interiors make it a captivating backdrop for engagement photos in Orlando, capturing the essence of art and romance.

• 445 S Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32801
• https://www.drphillipscenter.org/

Unique Engagement photo Locations near Orlando

Bartow Executive Airport

Bartow Executive Airport is a dynamic hub in Bartow, Florida, offering a range of services from flight school training to full-service fueling. Its strategic location and professional staff make it a prime location for engagement photos just outside of Orlando, capturing the essence of aviation and the spirit of the skies.

• 5993 Airport Blvd, Bartow, FL 33830
• http://bartow-airport.com/

JW MARRIOTT BONNET CREEK

The JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa exudes modern luxury with warm and inviting social spaces, providing a captivating backdrop for engagement photos. With views of the Bonnet Creek Preserve and nightly Disney fireworks, the resort offers diverse and enchanting settings for those unforgettable moments.

• 14900 Chelonia Parkway, Orlando, Florida, USA, 32821
• marriott.com

ORLANDO SCIENCE CENTER

The Orlando Science Center offers a blend of educational exhibits and interactive experiences, making it a super interesting place for engagement photos. With settings ranging from planetarium shows to hands-on exhibits, couples can capture unique moments amidst a fusion of science and art.

• 777 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803
• https://www.osc.org/

LOEWS PORTOFINO BAY

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel captures the romance and charm of the Italian seaside village of Portofino, offering a serene harbor backdrop.

With its vibrant piazza, enticing outdoor cafes, and serene harbor views, the hotel provides a captivating setting for engagement photos that radiate love and elegance.

• 5601 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819
• https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/places-to-stay/loews-portofino-bay-hotel
  

Disney Engagement Photos

The Swan Reserve

The Walt Disney World Swan Reserve offers an upscale experience right within the Walt Disney World Resort. Its central location, a mere 16-minute walk from Epcot, combined with exclusive amenities, makes it an ideal backdrop for engagement photography, capturing magical moments against the backdrop of iconic Disney landmarks.

• 1255 Epcot Resorts Blvd, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
• http://www.swandolphin.com/

Disney’s Boardwalk

Disney’s BoardWalk offers a vibrant backdrop with its lively entertainment district, capturing the essence of coastal cities and the romantic allure of waterfront settings. This is probably one of the easiest, and low key disney properties I work at as an Orlando engagement photographer.

• Bay Lake, FL 34747
• https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/destinations/boardwalk

Disney’s Grand Floridian

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa exudes Victorian elegance, offering a lavish backdrop for engagement photos. With the Seven Seas Lagoon in view and the iconic Cinderella Castle illuminating the evening sky, it’s a dreamy setting for capturing romantic moments.

• 4401 Floridian Way, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
• https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/grand-floridian-resort-and-spa/?CMP=OKC-80010384_GM_WDW_resort_disneysgrandfloridianresortspa_NA

Related and Frequently Asked Questions

How much should you spend on engagement photos?

Prices typically range from $100-$500 and all the way up to $5000 or more. It really depends on what you value when it comes to your engagement session. Most couples will get more photographs, enjoyment and locations out of a two-hour engagement session.

How long before the wedding should you take engagement pictures?

Typically 6 to 9 months before the wedding. This allows ample time to use the photos for save-the-date cards, wedding websites, or other pre-wedding materials. 

What should I avoid in engagement photos?

Don’t try to make engagement photos out to be something you are not. Be yourself and pick a location that is meaningful to you as a couple or that checks off a bucket list date for you. Also for the love of all that is holy, exact matching outfits are the worst.

Orlando engagement and proposal photo packages

Orlando Engagement Photos

These are from a few sessions I have shot recently as an Orlando engagement photographer. If you’d like to have me as your photographer, reach out here.