As a New Jersey based wedding photographer, I’m confident your ideal engagement spot is easily in the beautiful garden state! New Jersey offers such an array of picturesque locations that can perfectly capture the unique love story of you and your partner. Whether you’re drawn to the serene beaches of the Jersey Shore, the lush greenery of Northern New Jersey, or the charming urban vibes of its cities, there’s a spot for every couple’s style. In this guide, you’ll get a break down the best engagement session locations across different areas of New Jersey straight from a professional New Jersey wedding photographer.
This blog is sectioned into Northern New Jersey, Central New Jersey, and South New Jersey. Furthermore, I’ll categorize spots into nature, garden, or urban to find your vibe fast.
Bonus tip: Click on links to see more photos from that location!
NORTH JERSEY ENGAGEMENT SESSION LOCATIONS
Northern New Jersey offers a diverse landscape, featuring breathtaking mountain tops, serene lakes, and lush gardens perfect for your engagement session. For those who love a mix of nature and city vibes, the region also boasts urban settings that add a modern edge to your photos.
NORTH NEW JERSEY – NATURE BASED ENGAGEMENT LOCATIONS
Ramapo Valley County Reservation | Mahwah, New Jersey
Round Valley Recreation Area | Clifton Township, NJ
Norvin Green State Forest | Ringwood, NJ
High Point State Park | Sussex, NJ
Stokes State Forest | Sandyston, NJ
Lake Mohawk | Sparta, NJ
Wawayanda State Park | Hewitt, NJ
NORTH NEW JERSEY – GARDEN BASED ENGAGEMENT LOCATIONS
The Frelinghuysen Arboretum | Morristown, NJ
New Jersey Botanical Garden | Ringwood, NJ
Cross Estate Gardens | Bernardsville, NJ
Van Vleck House & Gardens | Montclair, NJ
Laurelwood Arboretum | Wayne, NJ
Leonard J Buck Garden | Far Hills, NJ
*Gardens typically require permits for professional photography. Always check their websites or reach out.
NORTH NEW JERSEY – URBAN BASED ENGAGEMENT LOCATIONS
Liberty State Park | Jersey City, New Jersey
Montclair Public Library
Cowan’s Public | Nutley, New Jersey
Liberty State Park | Jersey City, New Jersey
Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen | Morristown, NJ
Thirty3 | Towaco, New Jersey
CENTRAL JERSEY ENGAGEMENT SESSION LOCATIONS
Yes, Central New Jersey does exist although the beaches seem surreal! Central New Jersey offers charming engagement spots like the historic architecture of Princeton University. For a eclectic urban vibe, Downtown Red Bank or the colorful murals in Asbury Park make stunning backdrops. You’ll find a mix of classic and modern settings perfect for capturing timeless moments.
CENTRAL NEW JERSEY – NATURE BASED LOCATIONS
Long Branch Beach | Long Branch, New Jersey
Asbury Park Beach | Asbury Park, New Jersey
Sandy Hook Beach | Highlands, New Jersey
Island State Park | Lanoka Harbor, New Jersey
Sourland Mountain Preserve | Hillsborough Township, New Jersey
Spruce Run Recreation Area | Clinton, New Jersey
Cheesequake State Park | Matawan, New Jersey
Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park | Hamilton Township, New Jersey
CENTRAL NEW JERSEY – GARDEN BASED LOCATIONS
Deep Cut Gardens | Middletown Township, New Jersey
Sayen House and Gardens | Hamilton Square, New Jersey
Rutgers Gardens | North Brunswick Township, New Jersey
CENTRAL NEW JERSEY – URBAN BASED LOCATIONS
Princeton University | Princeton, New Jersey
The Asbury Hotel | Asbury, New Jersey
Downtown Red Bank | Red Bank, New Jersey
SOUTH JERSEY ENGAGEMENT SESSION LOCATIONS
South New Jersey boasts great engagement spots, including the historic streets of Cape May, with its Victorian homes and beachy charm.
SOUTH NEW JERSEY – NATURE BASED LOCATIONS
Wharton State Forest | Hammonton, New Jersey
Cape May Point State Park | Cape May, New Jersey
SOUTH NEW JERSEY – GARDEN BASED LOCATIONS
Willow Creek Winery | Cape May, New Jersey
Beach Plum Farm | Cape May, New Jersey
SOUTH NEW JERSEY – URBAN BASED LOCATIONS
Historic Smithville | Smithville, New Jersey
Cape May Rotary Park | Cape May, New Jersey
Ocean City New Jersey
Atlantic City New Jersey
With so many wonderful locations, New Jersey has the best spot to highlight you and your partner’s personalities and journey!
Want even more spots? Inquire today to book your dream engagement session!