If you want your engagement photography to shine, Portland is a gem of a location in the Pacific Northwest—earthy yet trendy, quaint yet larger than life. The largest city in Oregon, Portland sits on the picturesque banks of the Columbia and Willamette rivers, tucked in the valley of snow-capped Mount Hood. Needless to say, there’s no shortage of epic natural wonders here to serve as the backdrop of your Portland wedding photography. Portland thrives with its many parks, from the majestic Cathedral Park featuring the gothic archways of St. John’s Bridge, to the Eastbank Esplanade, which extends a panoramic view of the city skyline and riverfront. Going for a more urban vibe? Find your element at Portland’s many microbreweries, coffee houses and cultural hotspots.

 

05. BEACON ROCK STATE PARK
 

Since the two of you are embarking on the adventure of a lifetime, why not channel some of that excitement into a gorgeously intrepid setting, like Beacon Rock State Park near Portland? What makes this place so adventurous for Portland engagement photography? For starters, Beacon Rock itself is the core of an ancient volcano. Climb timber bridges along the mile-long trail up this mammoth rock. With its pristine waterfalls and scenic vantage points overlooking the Columbia River Gorge, Beacon Rock paints a majestic picture for Portland wedding photography, too (it’s worth a detour). Indulge your inner explorer and discover why Beacon Rock State Park is one of our best Portland engagement locations.

 

04. LAURELHURST PARK
 

One look at Laurelhurst Park and you’ll understand why it was once named the most beautiful park on the west coast. Spanning a scenic 26.81 acres, Laurelhurst Park is a beautiful neighborhood location for a Portland engagement photography session. Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood full of historic homes, it feels wonderfully secluded yet vast and free. At the park’s center, you’ll find a sparkling pond that’s home to ducklings in the spring, as well as many fish varieties year round. And why not get playful for your Portland wedding photography? The park is known for its colorful playground, tall trees and lush green scenery. Along the hiking trails, you’ll find an abundance of photo ops for you and your fiancé to explore. See why we think this historic park is one of the best Portland engagement locations.

 

03. RIVERPLACE MARINA
 

If you’re looking for a location that’s equally urban and scenic, Riverplace Marina is the perfect destination for Portland engagement photography. Pristine boats wade up and down on the waves alongside a vibrant dining and shopping scene. Beckoning to city-dwelling couples, this diverse site is situated right downtown, surrounded by an eclectic mix of shops, hotels, and restaurants to explore. Stage some of your Portland wedding photography here for a clear view of the Portland skyline and Willamette River as your striking backdrop. With colorful dragon boats sailing by, in addition to the impeccable landscape, Riverplace Marina is a must on our list of best Portland engagement locations.

 

02. CATHEDRAL PARK
 

It’s no wonder that explorers Lewis and Clark chose this location as one of the landing sites on their great expedition. Steeped in history, Cathedral Park is one awe-inspiring architectural locale for Portland engagement photography. Giving rise to the famed St. Johns bridge above it, the park’s cathedral-like arches frame each shot with a stunning display of gothic structure—an intriguing juxtaposition among unspoiled views of the river and rolling greenery as far as the eye can see. Discover why we think Cathedral Park is one of the best Portland engagement locations. If you ask us, it has all the makings of authentic Portland wedding photography, too.

 

01. EASTBANK ESPLANADE
 

The Eastbank Esplanade, a river-hugging walkway that stretches for 1.5 miles along Portland's eastern waterfront, is a scenic location for Portland engagement photography. The Esplanade showcases a beautiful view of the Hawthorne Bridge and the Portland skyline. Stroll arm in arm along the floating walkway. The longest of its kind in the country, this buoyant stretch brings you intimately close to the water's edge while mimicking the feeling of walking on water. Echoing the pier buildings and Shanghai tunnels of Portland’s past, the Stone arch of Echo's Gateway is made for iconic Portland wedding photography shots. And the public art lining the path unfolds with intrigue every step of the way. Definitely one of the best Portland engagement locations.