Where to Take Engagement Photos in Washington: Why Bloedel Reserve Is Worth It

If you’ve been around here for a while, you know I care about making your engagement shoot feel like more than a box to check. It should be personal and intentional, and honestly, these sessions end up being some of my favorite memories with couples. There’s something about the slower pace and the realness of it all. It’s not about posing for perfect photos; instead, it’s about creating space to just be, together.

So if you’re looking for the best engagement photo locations in Washington, especially one that gives you privacy, peace, and pure Pacific Northwest beauty, let me show you why Bloedel Reserve might be the hidden gem you’ve been looking for (it’s definitely worth it!)

What Makes Bloedel Reserve So Special?

Tucked away on Bainbridge Island, just a short ferry ride from Seattle, Bloedel Reserve is one of the dreamiest spots for couples who want something more private and serene.

It’s a 150-acre nature preserve filled with gardens, beautiful paths, open meadows, and even a Japanese garden. You get so much variety without ever leaving the property! Most importantly, though? It’s quiet.

There’s no dodging crowds or waiting for people to pass, no loud street noise or distractions. Just you, your person, and an environment that invites you to slow down and really soak it all in (and me with a camera, of course!) I love all the popular spots in Washington, like the national parks, etc., but I love it when my couples want to go to spots that are a little less used so that it’s more peaceful and it feels super unique!

A Peek Into E and D’s Session at Bloedel Reserve

To bring these ideas to life, I couldn’t think of a better example than E & D’s engagement session. From the moment they reached out, they made it clear that they wanted their photos to feel like them while feeling natural.

Bloedel offered the perfect backdrop for that. The walking paths gave us space to wander and chat back and forth, and the moments that unfolded felt completely unforced and so natural to them!

 

They weren’t posing for the camera, which I love, because they were simply being with each other, and that’s what made the photos feel so effortless! I love it when there are locations that are so beautiful because then the couple can feel less stressed about all the little details, and instead, just let them and the location shine!

Why I Recommend Bloedel Reserve for Engagement Photos

If you’re deciding where to take engagement photos in Washington, here’s why I always bring up Bloedel Reserve for the right couple:

1. It’s Peaceful and Private

This isn’t your typical packed state park. It’s a very unique reserve that encourages slowness and solitude, which is perfect for couples who want to feel grounded, not rushed! It’s a little off the beaten path, which is honestly part of the charm! For the couples that are willing to go the extra mile, they really get to enjoy a more unique spot without worrying about it being too trendy.

2. Insane Variety in Just One Location

In under an hour, you can move from the forest to gardens to golden meadows and back again, without ever getting in the car. This is so important when we’re working with limited light or when we want to keep the experience simple.

3. Great for Couples Who Want Nature, But Not the Hike

Some Washington photo spots are stunning, but they require a hike or some serious dirt-under-your-nails adventuring, but not Bloedel.

You’ll still get that wild and lush PNW vibe, but without scrambling up rocks or changing clothes in your car. Everything is walkable, making it perfect for more dressed-up looks or couples who want an elevated feel.

What to Know Before You Book

Bloedel is technically private property, which means there are a few steps to take before we can shoot there.

• Photography sessions require a permit (which I can help you apply for!)
• They have specific hours and capacity limits, so we’ll want to plan ahead
• There is an entrance fee for all guests, including your photographer

But honestly, it’s 100% worth it because what you get in return is a quiet, intimate space that feels like a real experience, not just a popular backdrop.

How to Choose Your Washington Engagement Photo Location

Not every couple will feel drawn to Bloedel Reserve, and that’s okay. I always say the best engagement photo locations are the ones that mean something to you. If you’re still figuring out where to shoot, here are a few questions I ask my couples to help narrow it down:

• What kind of feeling do you want these photos to have? More trees or water? More open spaces or quiet and intimate spots?
• Are you drawn to nature, or are you a city person at heart?
• What do you want to remember about this season of life?

These answers help us choose a location that fits you, not just a place that looks good on Instagram or Pinterest. If you are looking for more inspiration, here are a few galleries that show the range of what’s possible:

• How to Nail Your Engagement Shoot: Location, Timing, Wardrobe & More
• The Best Engagement Photo Locations by Season in Washington

Each of these couples chose their location intentionally, and you can feel it throughout every gallery!

What to Wear to Your Bloedel Reserve Engagement Session

E & D’s outfits are such a great example of how to style for a place like this. They wore neutral, earthy tones that matched the softness of the surroundings, and everything had movement. She wore a floral dress and a sweater, he wore a quarter zip sweater and jeans, and they had outfit changes… all of it worked with the breeze and the landscape instead of against it, and there were no crazy colors or textures that took away from them or the views.

A few things I always recommend:

• Avoid neon or super bright colors
• Choose soft textures that feel like you
• Think about how your outfit moves when you walk or twirl
• Bring one elevated outfit and one casual outfit, and we can shoot both.

If you need help styling your session, I offer outfit assistance and inspiration for every couple I work with. So when you book, feel free to ask all the questions and let me know your ideas!

Real Talk: It’s Not Just About the Location

You could take your photos in a field, a downtown alley, or your own backyard, and if you’re present with each other, they’ll still be beautiful. That’s what matters most!

That’s also why I guide every session in a way that’s inspired by connection first, which gives you space to feel like yourselves, together, so the photos reflect that.

Whether it’s Bloedel or somewhere else that feels more like you, my goal’s the same: to help you slow down, be present, and walk away with photos that remind you how much you love each other.

Ready to Plan Your Engagement Photos in Washington?

If Bloedel Reserve sounds like your dream spot (or you just want help deciding), let’s start planning your engagement shoot! I’d love to help you create photos that feel like you. Reach out here, and let’s make it happen.

Need more inspiration? Check out my favorite Arizona engagement session locations or browse more sessions on the blog.