Charlotte is the best of both worlds—a big city with a small-town feel, thanks in large part to its southern charm. And that’s exactly why it’s such a lovely location for engagement photography. Urban interest abounds in Uptown, the heart of Charlotte’s modern city center. Stroll among the historic Queen Anne architecture in the Fourth Ward for a striking backdrop. We also love the wide open spaces of Anne Springs Close Greenway, a majestic nature preserve. Or, show your romantic side at one of the best Charlotte engagement locations—Duke Mansion, pristine in its white colonial Southern splendor. This also happens to be an elegant spot for Charlotte wedding photography, so scope it out at your engagement shoot.

 

04. NODA - CHARLOTTE HISTORIC ARTS DISTRICT
 

For a couple who loves the arts, Charlotte and city life, NoDa is a fantastic place for an engagement shoot. Also called the Charlotte Historic Arts District, this neighborhood was originally established in the early 1900s as a mill community. Now, however, it’s a destination where locals come to play, see, and taste the latest in city culture. No wonder it’s a hot spot for Charlotte engagement photography, too. Here, eclectic street art radiates urban energy that will bring your photos to life. Take in the textural landscape of posters, stickers and industrial surfaces. Pose in front of one of the many bold murals or sit outside at an adorable coffee shop. You’ll see why NoDa is one of the best Charlotte engagement locations.

 

03. THE DUKE MANSION
 

If you want to feel Gatsby-level fancy in your Charlotte engagement photography, the Duke Mansion is the place. Dating back to 1915, the luxe setting of this grand estate makes it one of the best Charlotte engagement locations. The historic landmark, turned boutique bed and breakfast, is Southern charm in its Sunday best. Explore the elaborate gardens surrounding the mansion and the lavishly styled interior for a variety of shots with your Charlotte engagement photographer. Perhaps you’ll picture yourself on your big day, too, captured in a cinematic first kiss on the steps that lead to the colonial splendor of this modern-day palace.

02. GLENCAIRN GARDEN
 

It’s hard to believe that this majestic garden was once merely the backyard of a local family. Glencairn Garden has now grown into an 11-acre paradise of flowers, bridges, fountains and manicured lawns—and one of the best Charlotte engagement locations. The garden flourishes with a variety of colorful blooms, year round, so lead your Charlotte engagement photographer through the labyrinth of azaleas, dogwoods, wisteria and camellias. Think spring if you want to return here for your big day. Flowers are at peak bloom from March through April, making it the perfect time for photos.

 

01. ANNE SPRINGS CLOSE GREENWAY
 

Aptly named, Anne Springs Close Gateway promises to bring you closer to nature. And that it does, with glimmering lakes, forests and pastures as far as the eye can see. There are plenty of places to roam in this 2,100 acre nature preserve, which means infinite freedom to just be yourselves. That’s why it’s one of the best Charlotte engagement locations. Venture into the lush greenway with your Charlotte engagement photographer and just be. Prop-wise, we love the idea of staging an impromptu picnic here, sitting atop a cozy blanket nestled in the tall grasses. Or, hop on horseback for a playful shoot.