Downtown Tampa

1. River walk

Tampa’s riverwalk is such a fun and exciting place for your engagement session. Located on the edge of Downtown Tampa, River Walk is right on the river, hence the name, and the perfect spot if you want water without all the sand. Riverwalk is also just a short walk from Franklin St which displays murals and a trendy city vibe.

2. University of Tampa

The minarets & domes of the University of Tampa are truly an iconic image of our city. Located in the heart of downtown, this location features a beautiful park, historic buildings, a view of the city and it’s on the river, just across from Curtis Hixon park and Riverwalk.

3. Curtis Hixon Park

Just across the river from the University of Tampa, Curtis Hixon park is a diverse place for your session. Palm trees, a water fountain feature. modern museums, and the river are just a few things that make this such a great location. Curtis Hixon Park does often have events going on so we’ll have to check their schedule before we choose this spot.

St Pete

4. Fort De Soto Park

Fort De Soto is one of my absolute favorite peaches in the Tampa Bay area. The park has an old Florida feel with lots of Palm trees, and greenery. I love to start engagement sessions in the park first while we wait for the sunset because then you get two different backgrounds. One of the most unique spots within the park is the Spanish-America war era fort complete with real cannons. Another great thing to note is that Fort De Soto has a dedicated dog beach, so pretty please bring your pup!

5. Straub Park

Located in the center of downtown St Pete, Strab Park is a gorgeous place for your engagement session. The large baryon trees, beautiful white pergola with bright pink bougainvillea flowers, & the picturesque harbor provides stunning backdrops to celebrate your story. There’s also ample bars and restaurants just steps away if you want to grab a drink or dinner afterwards and really enjoy this date night together.

Clearwater

6. Philipe park

Philipe park in Safety Harbor is a 122 acre park overlooking Tampa bay with 1 mile of shoreline. Lush oak trees and southern Spanish moss make this location ideal. One of my favorite spots here is The Historic Indian mound. You won’t want to miss the gorgeous stone staircase that leads down
to the water.

7. Sand Key Park

Sand key park is my other favorite location for beach engagement sessions in the Tampa Bay area. Expansive white sand beaches make this the perfect location for those Florida vibes. I love this beach, because like Fort De Soto, there are two distinct areas- the beach and the park There’s also a boardwalk, trails and my favorites a dog park However, dogs are not allowed on the beach at sand key, so bring a friend to watch your pup when we head out to the beach.

The Greater Tampa Bay Area

8. Sydney Dover Trails

This is a lesser known park and therefore less crowded. Oftentimes we have the park entirely to ourselves. That makes this a great location if you or your partner tend to be shy. Located in Valrico, off of highway 60, Sydney Dover park is one of my favorite locations because of the incredible light. The tall, wheat-colored grass is both natural and neutral, meaning you and your love will stand out as the main focus. It’s also an equestrian trail so you could bring your horses if that’s something you’d like to include.

9 Hollis Gardens

Hollis gardens is a beautiful botanical garden located in Lakeland. It features a neoclassical architecture with arches and pillars. The garden is 1.2 acres and faces Lake mirror, another stunning location to explore. The garden does close at 6pm so it is often better suited to session from fall to early spring, before the time change.

10. Bok Tower

Bok tower gardens is an impressive 250 acre garden and bird sanctuary located atop Iron Mountain in Lake Wales, Florida. For most, this will be a bit of a drive, but it is well worth it. There is a 205 ft singing tower which was built in 1925. Other favorite spots for photos are the reflection pool, Pinewood Estate, Pine Ridge trail. There is a $16 admission fee per adults. And you can even bring your furry friend for
an additional $5. Perhaps not the most convenient location on the list, but it will definitely not disappoint.

How to choose a Tampa engagement photographer

Choosing a photographer for your wedding is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. You need an engagement photographer that genuinely cares about you, your story and your wedding. You need someone you feel comfortable with and understands the connection you have with your partner.

I do this by being genuinely interested in getting to know you and what matters to you most. I use prompts at your session and on your wedding day to help you get out of your head and create real memories together. Years from now, you wont look back at these photos and think they’re cheesy
or awkward. You’ll look back and remember the sheer joy and deep connection you built your lives together on.

If you’re looking for emotional, meaningful and authentic photographs, I might be the right photographer for you.