Pointers from a Pro
PICTURE THIS! A photographer’s favorite engagement photo venues.
Professional wedding photographers have an extraordinary eye when it comes to backdrops and angles for memorable photographs. Kelly Canova of Orlando (kellycanovaphotography.com) says creative portrait locations range from casual to formal, but they’re always fun and personalized. “Brides can set the scene for a picture-perfect engagement photo shoot with a creative, out-of-the-box location or a classic place that is special to them.” Here are some of Canova’s favorite spots for engagement photos:
1. Casa Feliz, Winter Park
“The century-old bricks, massive timbers and bell tower of this Spanish farmhouse add texture and Old-World beauty. The well-manicured grounds, towering oaks and potted native plants provide shade and a rich color palette.”
2. Maxine's on Shine, Thornton Park
“The interior of the historic Thornton Park hotspot set the perfect stage for a themed engagement shot of a ballerina showing off her fiancé as her leading man. The ambiance and décor gave it a classic look.”
3. Reunion Resort, Reunion
“Reunion Resort has multiple backdrops for great engagement photographs. With everything from amazing views, beautiful fountains and gardens to lots of brick and columns, the opportunities are endless.”
4. Park Avenue, Winter Park
“With columned trellises and rose gardens, elegant store fronts and tucked-away shops, you end up with a myriad of unique photo spots. It’s also an excellent location to include beloved pets in the sessions.”
5. Kraft Azalea Garden, Winter Park
“It’s like a secret garden, with a picturesque lake front and amazing Cypress trees, grasses and stone exedra, that’s breathtaking at sunset.”
6. Cranes Roost Park, Altamonte Springs
“The lake-centric park in Uptown Altamonte has a quaint European feel with cobblestone walkways, gardens, and dancing fountains that add texture and personality to images.”
7. Celebration Town Center, Celebration
“With cool shops and restaurants, it’s perfect for a small-town, village backdrop. The lake is filled with colorful ducks, and the beautiful Bohemian Hotel Celebration is reminiscent of seaside inns of the early 1900s.”
8. Lake Jessup, Sanford
“There are so many beautiful lakes in Central Florida that make for amazing sunset shots, but this one has character, with gators, airboats and an outside bar.”
9. Mead Botanical Garden, Winter Park
“It’s spot-on for nature-themed photos, but it’s also a great place to get out some old-time props and classic clothing for a vintage-themed engagement session.”
10. Disney’s BoardWalk, Walt Disney World
“Encompassing Crescent Lake, the village surrounding the water has brightly colored buildings with striped facades, archways and the look and feel of early 1900’s Atlantic City.”
