A Philadelphia inspired Engagement Shoot

I went to college in Philadelphia, so anytime I get a chance to photograph there, it feels like it is a bit of a homecoming. I love checking out some of my olds stomping grounds, and seeing all of the new businesses, that didn’t exist when I lived there. When Anna and Danny said they wanted to do a Philadelphia inspired engagement shoot, I couldn’t say yes quickly enough.

A couple sitting and drinking coffee during their Philadelphia sunrise session. They are both wearing winter trench coats, and smiling

Philadelphia sunrise Engagement Session

We started our sunrise session(my favorite!) at the Rail Park. The Rail Park is a greenway on a historic elevated Viaduct in Philadelphia, and it is such an amazing green space right in the middle of the city. We spent time exploring the fun architectural features, the view of the Philly skyline, and lounging on some swings while sipping coffee. I am not sure there is a better way to start off a shoot.

A couple sitting on a wooden swing at a city green space during their philadelphia inspired engagement shoot. the couple is smiling, and drinking their coffee

A couple facing each other smiling. It is golden hour, so their is a warm glow. They are both wearing winter pea coats.

Elfreth’s Alley engagement Session

From there we moved onto Elfreth’s Alley, The nation’s oldest continuously inhabited residential street. Most of the buildings were built over 300 years ago. Full of different textures and vibrant colors, this alley is a perfect background for an engagement session. This alley is popular with tourists, but because we started at sunrise, we basically had the alley to ourselves.

A smiling couple in Elfreth's Alley during their Philadelphia inspired engagement shoot. The woman is snuggling behind the man, and they are both smiling.

Wissahickon Valley Park Engagement Photos

The couple loves to hike, so we did an outfit change, and headed to some of their favorite sections of the Wissahickon. This park, within the city of Philadelphia, always amazes me, because it is a “for real” wilderness park. It is full of trails, streams, and rocks, and never disappoints. Another fun part about this location, is that we got to add Anna and Danny’s newly adopted dog into the photos. I am going to be honest and say I am always pro-pet, but I especially love having pets involved in at least part of a photo shoot.

A couple walking in the woods while holding hands during their philadelphia inspired engagement shoot. They are surrounded by trees, a creek, and an old stone wall

Planning Your Own Philadelphia Engagement Session?

I hope this session inspired you to think beyond the “must-see” landmarks. Some of my favorite engagement sessions happen in places that already mean something to my couples, whether that’s the neighborhood where they met, a favorite coffee shop, or the park where they spend Sunday mornings together. Those personal touches are what make your photos feel uniquely yours.

If you’re looking for someone to help you choose meaningful locations and create a relaxed, fun experience, learn more about my approach to documenting couples and adventure weddings or reach out to start planning your engagement session.