The Best Maryland Engagement Session Locations
Terrapin Nature Park — Stevensville, Maryland
Tucked away in Stevensville on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Terrapin Nature Park is one of those engagement session locations that truly has it all. With sweeping waterfront views, sandy beach access, and a golden-hour sunset that never disappoints, it’s an absolute dream for couples who want variety without hopping from place to place. One of the most unique parts of this park is how many beautiful photo opportunities you encounter just by walking toward the beach: wooded paths, open grassy areas, and wide bay views that slowly unfold as the sun sets. It’s perfect for a relaxed, natural-feeling session that feels more like an evening stroll than a photoshoot, all while ending with those iconic Chesapeake Bay sunset moments.
Things to Know:
Access is free and no permit is required, but they do close at sunset and are strict about it
If you’re looking to do an outfit change once ending up at the beach area, there is only a porta potty to change in
Assateague Island — Berlin, Maryland
For couples who feel most at home by the water, Assateague Island in Berlin, Maryland is an unbeatable engagement session location. This stunning stretch of protected coastline offers everything beach lovers dream: wide open shores, rolling dunes, and soft, glowing light at sunset that feels straight out of a movie. One of the best parts of Assateague is the variety. Within the park you can move between beaches, grassy areas, and dune landscapes, all without losing that wild, untouched feel. And if you’re lucky enough to have one of the famous wild horses wander into the frame, it adds an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime element to your photos! The overall vibe here is effortlessly carefree, perfect for couples who want their session to feel relaxed, adventurous, and completely unposed.
Things to Know:
No permit is required, but you do have to pay for entry into the park
Downtown Annapolis — Annapolis, Maryland
We may be slightly bias as locals, but Downtown Annapolis is a perfect engagement session location for couples who love charm, character, and a little bit of everything. The cobblestone and brick streets, paired with historic homes and classic architecture, create a timeless and romantic backdrop around every corner. It has that quintessential small-town feel while being warm and inviting with lots of visual variety. As you stroll through the streets, you’ll discover hidden gems tucked between buildings and unexpected pockets of beauty. And when you make your way down to the docks, the scenery shifts effortlessly into a waterfront setting, with boats and the harbor glowing behind you at sunset. It’s the ideal blend of urban texture and natural beauty, all within a relaxed, walkable setting.
Things to Know:
We recommend parking near Brown Mustache Coffee and making your way down to the docks at sunset
There is plenty of street parking available downtown and you are able to pay and keep track of your remaining time using the Park Mobile App
Cromwell Valley Park — Towson, Maryland
Cromwell Valley Park in Towson, Maryland is a beautiful choice for couples who want their engagement session to feel open, natural, and unhurried. With its expansive property and wide-open landscapes, there’s plenty of room to explore, move, and just be yourselves. The open fields glow at sunset, creating soft, warm light that feels effortless and romantic. In addition to the fields, the park also offers woodsy pockets and tree-lined paths, adding depth and variety to your gallery.
Things to Know:
This location does require a permit. The fee is $25. You can begin the permit process here.
There are two entrances to the park, so make sure you communicate with your photographer/couple and vice versa to end up at the correct location
Mt. Vernon — Baltimore, Maryland
Mount Vernon in Baltimore is a go-to engagement session location and for very good reason. Known for its stunning architecture, this neighborhood offers an elevated, classic feel with grand buildings, columns, and historic details that photograph beautifully from every angle. Right in the center, the park adds a refreshing touch of greenery, creating a perfect balance between city charm and natural elements. One of the best parts of Mount Vernon is how walkable it is: within just a rectangular stroll, you’re met with multiple gorgeous backdrops, making it easy to capture a ton of variety without ever feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Things to Know:
Street parking
Popular location, so you may run into other photographers during your session depending on the time of day and year
Howard County Conservancy — Woodstock, Maryland
Howard County Conservancy is a dreamy engagement session location for couples who love wide-open landscapes and a relaxed, natural feel. The rolling hills create a soft, scenic backdrop that feels timeless and peaceful, while the winding paths and open fields invite movement and connection. It is the perfect spot for a carefree, unposed vibe. This location shines in both the early morning and the evening, with beautiful light that wraps gently around the landscape and adds a warm, romantic glow to every moment.
Things to Know:
A permit is required by the photographer and is quite expensive at $150 for the year
Lone Oak Brewing — Olney, Maryland
Lone Oak Brewing is such a fun and unique engagement session location, especially for couples who want their photos to feel more like a date than a traditional shoot. What makes this spot stand out is how activity-driven it is. You can grab a drink, share a pizza, play games, and actually do something together, which naturally leads to candid, genuine moments. With private tents available, it also offers a more intimate setting while still keeping things relaxed and laid back. The combination of great beer, good food, and an easygoing atmosphere makes Lone Oak perfect for couples who want their session to feel effortless and playful.
Things to Know:
There are multiple tents and fire pits you are able to rent for a more private experience
Kilgore Falls — Pylesville, Maryland
Kilgore Falls is a perfect engagement session location for the adventurous couple who wants to feel fully immersed in nature. The experience starts with a woodsy walk that builds anticipation, eventually opening up to the waterfall, a rewarding and beautiful moment that feels a little magical. Surrounded by trees and natural textures, it’s an especially pretty spot for couples who want their photos to feel earthy and unplugged. As Maryland’s second-highest waterfall, Kilgore Falls is a truly special place within the state and makes for an unforgettable, nature-forward engagement session backdrop.
Things to Know:
No permit required and free parking is available
It is a decent walk to the waterfall so walkable shoes are recommended for the couple prior to getting to the photo-worthy spots
Can be very crowded during the summer
