As the winter in the PNW comes to a close, it’s time to start planning your Seattle engagement photo shoot! And if you want to incorporate the outdoors (which I think you should!), be prepared for a little rain. Or even better…EMBRACE it!

As an engagement photographer in Seattle, I’ve discovered that there is an abundance of places to do your engagement photoshoot. Whether you are looking for some old world charm, a luscious park, or both, there is really something for everyone.

When deciding what location to choose, we ultimately felt pulled to Pioneer Square. With all of its history, old world charm and brick facades, what more could you ask for when creating a moody and romantic vibe? In this blog, I have a list of a few of my favorite places in Pioneer Square to visit for your Seattle engagement photo shoot.

Union Station

First, we started off indoors at Union Station to utilize their large and ornate space.

Union Station is over 100 years old and has so much charm and character. With decorative barrel vaulted ceilings and chandeliers, Union Station transports you to another time, eliciting feelings of nostalgia.

If you can time it right with train arrivals and departures on a slow day, you can have the whole place to yourself (almost) and not worry about crowds of people in the way of your photos.

Arundel Books

Next, we moseyed over to Arundel Books, a classic book store in Pioneer Square.

Located in one of Seattles historic landmark buildings, this book store definitely doesn’t lack in character. With beautiful groin vaulted ceilings and ornate carvings throughout the architecture, the backdrop gives romantic elegant city vibes.

Side note: anytime I enter one of these establishments, I ALWAYS ask the people working for permission to take photos. I’ve never been told no, but it’s simply common courtesy and will always get you on the good side of your community members. Bonus points if you make a purchase there too, no matter how small. And hey, who doesn’t love a new book?

Once we headed out of the bookstore, it started to rain. As a native to Seattle, I’m quite used to being prepared for this kind of situation so it doesn’t bother me in the slightest. BUT I do have a few tips for couples to keep you cute and dry without sacrificing the vibe and quality of the photos:

• Get yourself a clear umbrella!
• A chic raincoat will always be cute in photos.
• Have cafes or other places mapped out on your excursion to escape the rain if we need.

Waterfall Garden Park

Last on our rainy engagement shoot stop was the Waterfall Garden Park.

Did you know that this secluded park marks the site of the original 1907 office of American Messenger Service, the forerunner of United Parcel Service aka UPS? While seemingly a random fact, it just goes to show how interesting and historic certain parts of Seattle are. Which make your photos that much more special.

This little gated garden is a hidden oasis and is not only perfect for a moment of zen within a busy city, but it’s the perfect place to capture your engagement. Tucked away from the brick and concrete and surrounded by waterfalls and greenery, if you can manage to make your way over to this little sanctuary, you won’t be disappointed.

Thinking of booking an engagement photoshoot? All of my wedding packages include an engagement session! Contact me for more info!