Best Places for Engagement Photos: Outdoor Location Ideas
The best places for engagement photos in Northern Ireland in 2024. If you are researching the best engagement locations this is worth checking out. If you live within Northern Ireland you don’t have to travel too far and if you live outside the country here are some ideas that might just interest you. Most of my packages include free engagement. A short list of the best engagement locations in Northern Ireland that you may find useful if you are interested in an engagement photo shoot, enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What month is best?
The summer months are best due to the weather and being more than likely to be sunny but really if you think about it the time of the year would be great eg if it’s snowing this time of the year would be great in the right location. If it’s raining a little there is no reason why you still can’t take some, if it’s too heavy head to a sheltered spot.
What are the best places to propose?
There are many places you can propose in Northern Ireland. The locations listed on this page might also make good places to propose in too so are worth checking out.
Places for engagement photos are listed on this page under Belfast might make great places to propose and pop the question in. Just a few are Belfast Castle, Stormont Park and a bit outside of the city Ballymenoch Park in Holywood. All great places.
What should you not do?
Too many changes of clothes - forget it, stick with one
Stick with one max photo location
Come with a bad-tempered mood, it won’t work as you’ll not get those nice candid moments
Not picking comfortable clothing
Best Places for Engagement Photos in Northern Ireland
I have divided the locations and places into sections for each city or town to make it much easier for you to find the best places for engagement photos in Northern Ireland.
Parks and Gardens Engagement Photography Locations
There are quite a few park and garden engagement photography locations in the province including Botanical Gardens, Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park, Bangor Walled Garden, Ballymenoch Park, Scrabo Country Park, Ness Country Gardens, Shaftesbury Park, The Ring of Gullion and Dungannon Park. Let’s look at the Botanic Gardens first.
Engagement Photo Location
Botanical Gardens
Engagement photos in Botanical Gardens Belfast with Andrea and Thomas ending in the Palm House where we got a range of shots from fun to cuddly. It was great shooting the couple’s photos. The fab couple are getting married in August and celebrating with loved ones. Great to meet you both.
The couple’s engagement photos were great as they allowed us to quickly go over their up-and-coming plans. I made some notes when we met in the gardens and then this would go into my schedule that I carry with me. The gardens offer some fascinating plants and flowers and you're able to take some great engagement photos here. Most cities have a botanical garden of some description that you should check out. There are plenty of venues in Belfast, way too many to mention here but have a read through venues where you may find some inspiration.
Besides engagement photos, you can even get married in the Botanic Gardens here too but need a permit from the council for this. There are also plenty of spots and areas within the gardens like pavilions and open grass areas for those romantic engagement photos. Botanic Gardens is one of my favourite places along with other best places for engagement photos in NI.
Why Engagement Photos in a Botanical Garden
Most cities have a botanical garden of some description that you should check out. There are plenty of venues in NI, way too many to mention here but have a read through my page where you may find some inspiration. You can even get married in Botanic Gardens Belfast but need a permit from Belfast Council for this. There are also plenty of spots and areas within the gardens like pavilions and open grass areas for those romantic engagement photos. This is one of my favourite places for engagement photos.
Why You Need an Engagement Shoot
Engagement photos are one of those things you might regret later. An engagement shoot is great for a variety of reasons for couples who are planning to get married and want some fun memories before the big day. It is advisable to book for an engagement shoot as soon as possible. It is best to have engagement photos taken about 1 year up to 6 months before the big day.
Where you can have your Engagement shoot
An engagement shoot can be photographed anywhere in the city but outdoors is the best. I’m sure there is a great park or location within driving distance from your house in Belfast that you often overlook. So why not go there? Failing that you can head further out. The summer is usually the best time of year but any season would be great. Belfast has many great parks and it’s a city, even around the city and its outskirts would be great.
What makes Botanic Gardens a great place for engagement photos? It’s a park central to Belfast city, has plenty of points of interest and is within a short driving distance from Queens University.
Address: Botanic Gardens, Botanic Avenue and Stranmillis Road, Queen's Quarter.
Website: https://www.belfastcity.gov.uk/parks
My take
If you want a location for your engagement photos right in Belfast city centre this is the place to go to as it has a wide variety of areas in the park so you could spend quite a bit of time here.
Score: 9 out of 10
Best for: In Belfast city centre
Great Engagement Photo Places
Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park
Claire and Gerard picked one of the best engagement photo places in Belfast called Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park were great fun as they brought their kids. I usually start with active shots with everyone including the four kids just to get everyone used to me taking photos of them, which helps loosen things up a bit at the Park. We separated so the kids were playing by the side and focused on the couple. There are some very interesting trees in the park which makes for a great location. Then we added in the kids and broke things up a bit, finishing off with some close-ups.
Do you include kids in engagement photos?
Heck yes, why not? Bring them too and let’s have some fun. I love shooting families and kids. You want to include all your kids too in your engagement photos or at least some of the engagement shoot. There are many great reasons to have both Engagement Photos in the same photo shoot. You are getting both engagement photos and family photos so no better way to combine the two into an engagement photo shoot. This works out cheaper too by the way so much easier on your pocket.
If it’s a very confined park the kids can stay close while we get some engagement photos but you don’t want them straying away too far, you want to be able to keep an eye on them. If they are too young then they can’t leave you, this is only if you have older kids.
This is really for smaller young kids but some ideas might be to bring some props that the kids can have fun with like for example bubbles, toys or a picnic. If you have older kids bring them too for your parent engagement.
Address: Belfast BT17 9LA
An Enchanting Engagement Pictures Location
Bangor Walled Garden
Joanne and Simon’s engagement photoshoot in Bangor Walled Garden on a great sunny day and we all met up at the entrance for their shoot. I was close by a few times at Bangor Castle but never quite made it to this spot until now. I love engagement photoshoots here as the flowers are out in full bloom in the summer months making the couple’s engagement shoot shine with light and colour. I must say it was a great location to shoot in with plenty of flowers and the central fountain making for some magical photos and moments. Thanks for booking me.
What is an Engagement Shoot for?
An engagement shoot is important for several reasons. You get familiar taking photos of you rather than a stranger which may be a bit weird. It’s important to get some casual engagement photos exploring the outdoor area where you're getting the photos shot. I personally always get a couple of photos of the engagement ring under the female’s hand and also some time in the environment too so this could be on a colourful vibrant flower for example. If the couple are interested it’s great to get some romantic-type photos too but this doesn’t always work out for a couple of reasons. If it isn’t best to keep things simple, lol. Enjoy my engagement shoot with the couple.
Address: Castle Walled Garden, Valentine Rd, Bangor BT20 4BT Phone: 028 9127 1200
Website: https://visitbelfast.com/partners/bangor-castle-walled-garden
A Hidden Engagement Location
Shaftesbury Park
Shaftesbury Park is a park in Carrickfergus town centre and is one of the best engagement places for your photos in the area. We were here in the autumn hence the autumn theme to the engagement session with plenty of families out having fun. Another location might be Carrickfergus Mill Ponds also in the town which is a nature reserve which is full of wildlife including but not limited to swans, geese and robins.
October Engagement Photos
Ashleigh and Carson’s October engagement photos in Shaftesbury Park Carrickfergus with their son and his friend on a glorious October day. Ashleigh’s friend booked me for their October engagement photos a while ago. The park was quite near Loughshore Hotel but was a little empty as it was autumn time nevertheless, we got some cracker October engagement photos. As a bit of fun, I got Carson to do a wee mock proposal even getting down on one knee, they brought their son and his friend and they were all laughing as it was great fun. They received all photos and images on a USB for viewing on their smart TV along with a couple of printed photos for their shoot. Contact me with your date and more info. Another place is the castle you can also check out for some inspiration.
What better way to celebrate your engagement than bringing your kid(s) along for some photos too? That way you are getting engagement family photos at the same time. We can take some couple’s photos and then add in the family too to break things up a bit and for more variation. It’s great when couples bring their kids too as it adds more people into the mix. If the children are too young then I can understand but if you have young kids bring them along too, and let’s have some fun.
Address: Shaftesbury Park, Joymount, Carrickfergus BT38 7DN. Phone: 0300 124 5000
Website: https://www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/things-to-do/parks
My take
If you want a place just outside the city this location might be good for you. It is only a park though so has limited areas for engagement photos but if you don’t fancy driving into the city centre have a look at this park.
Score: 5 out of 10
Best for outside Belfast
An Outdoor Engagement Photoshoot Location
Scrabo Country Park
Some great engagement places in Newtownards as I met up with Ashley, Jake and the couple’s dog Max for their engagement photos in the popular spot Scrabo Country Park which is quite well known around the town. It was a bit cold but not too bad as it was still the winter. Ashley is from Scotland and Jake is from Belfast by the way. The woodland has plenty of bluebells and plants which gains a lot of interest from geologists and they are also interested in old quarries where sandstone came from.
The couple were used to the cold as Ashley is Scottish so we got met up to take some autumn engagement photos. We started with a couple of active-type photos before heading into the woodlands in Newtownards. We took some couple’s photos before breaking things up a bit with a couple of variations but didn't quite make it up to Scrabo Tower which I believe you can see views of Strangford Lough and North Down, but maybe next time.
Autumn is the best time of year in Northern Ireland for an engagement photo shoot as they are very distinct and unique due to the coloured leaves on the ground. Granted it is a little bit cold but that’s to be expected. Going by the amount of people in the park it looked like a popular walking spot and good for dog walkers too which is right next to Scrabo Golf Club. We finished off going over their schedule which is in two weeks.
How long does an Engagement Photo Shoot last?
This varies but my engagement photo shoot usually lasts from 45 minutes to 1 hour. It doesn’t need to last longer than that but if you are looking to hike somewhere very remote in the mountains then maybe you need longer than this. It’s completely up to you as a couple.
What makes Scrabo Country Park is, one of the best engagement places? Park is, a good walking spot, within a short driving distance from Newtownards.
Address: Scrabo Country Park, 203A Scrabo Rd, Newtownards BT23 4SL. Open 24 hours, Picnic area, Toilets.
Website: https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/scrabo-country-park-p715621
My take
A place in Newtownards that you could consider for your engagement photos. If you like the outdoors this might be the location for you.
Score: 7 out of 10
Best for: In Newtownards
An Engagement Location in the Country
Ness Country Park
Serena and Ryan's couple engagement pictures in Ness Gardens Derry was a great place as it was a perfect bright sunny day when I met up with the couple. We took a walk around the park stopping off at anything we found interesting. They are getting married in The Belfray Country Inn.
Couples Engagement Pictures
This was a beautiful spot for the couple’s engagement pictures too. The couple has two young daughters who weren't there today but will hopefully be there on their day along with other relatives and friends, hope you like your engagement photo shoot, Serena and Ryan.
Why you should have Couples Engagement pictures
If you are considering it you should defo have a couples engagement picture before your marriage in a place that’s convenient to you. A park is just one suggestion but there are many other outdoor places too. Couples engagement pictures are best after your engagement when you have the ring. Pictures can range from romantic which are sometimes a bit hard to shoot depending on how long you’ve both been together and cute but keeping it real at all times. Let’s celebrate your engagement with some pictures which you can use for various things like sharing on social media and prints.
What makes Ness Country Park one of the best engagement shoot locations? Country park, plenty of country, within a short driving distance from Derry.
Website: https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/ness-country-park-p675621
My take
If you want a park just outside the city this might be a good place for your engagement photos as it’s a very popular park in Derry.
Score: 8 out of 10
Best for outside Derry
Ballymenoch Park
Aswell in the centre of Belfast the city has some great places within a short drive too. An engagement shoot location just outside of Belfast is a small place. The bluebells were in full bloom at Andrea and Dean’s engagement in Holywood, Belfast. The park is a bit of a hidden gem in Holywood and was quite beautiful. The park has 20 acres of land to walk around and take your engagement photos in. Located on the northeastern edge of Holywood and it’s said the best time of year to visit is autumn but I reckon you could come here any time of the year. In places like this, you always find an area that you’ve not explored before or something different than last time. If you are recently engaged and are looking for a spot in Belfast for engagement-style photos then the park is a great location. The park is about a 10-minute drive away from Belfast and is a hidden gem of a spot as I’d never even heard of it. Another great park is Seapark Holywood as you can also go there for an engagement.
What engagement style do you want?
I can shoot your engagement photos in a style that best represents you as a couple so if you can give me as much information as possible this will help a great deal when shooting your engagement. The style can be light and airy, fun, romantic, less posed more natural it’s completely up to you. You are free to take a look through my previous engagement-styled photos on my website.
What makes the park park one of the best engagement shoot locations? Park, Plenty of flowers, within a short driving distance from Belfast.
Address: Belfast, Antrim. BT18 0LP
My take
If you want a park within driving distance of the city this is a great place for your engagement shoot as it’s out of the hustle and bustle of Belfast where parking is quite difficult. If you go here at the right time of the year the bluebells may be out in full bloom.
Score: 5 out of 10
Best for: Outside Belfast
Couples Photoshoot Location
Dungannon Park
Alison and Mike’s (who's Australian) waterfall engagement photos in Dungannon Park on a sunny day as the couple both work for Mid Ulster Council. Even though I have driven past the park plenty of times this was my first time taking an engagement shoot and I must say it’s a great wee spot and up there with my best places for engagement photos in Northern Ireland. We took a walk around the park beginning at the small pavilion with some active type shots, which I usually start with.
Waterfall Engagement Photos
The park is quite big and is ideal for people as it also boasts a small but nice waterfall around the back which makes for great waterfall engagement photos. Most people who come here don’t even know there is a small waterfall but it’s still worth checking out. We ended with a couple of variations at the jetty beside the water. I hope you and Mike have a happy future. As stated earlier Mike is Australian and Alison is Northern Ireland hence the great Australian engagement photoshoot that we captured on the day.
Why a Waterfall Engagement?
A waterfall can give your engagement photos a bit of sparkle as the water falls into the river or ocean behind you. You can take a couple of variations in front of a waterfall, then move on to another area possibly beside the waterfall and then onto another area where you are. There are lots of other waterfalls in NI including
Ness Country Park in Derry
Glenroe in Larne
Glenariff in Antrim
Marble Arch Caves within Belmore Forest in Fermanagh
Tollymore Forest in Newcastle
Review
Went for an engagement photoshoot today. From our arrival he made us feel at ease and his attention to detail to get the best shot was impressive. He took lots of pictures listened to our ideas and took time to work with us. Can't wait to see pics. Alison
What makes Dungannon Park a good engagement photoshoot location? Waterfall, park, within a short driving distance from Dungannon town centre and the motorway.
Address: Moy Rd, Tyrone, Dungannon BT71 6DY Phone 028 8772 8690
My take
If you want a park within a short driving distance from the town this is a great place for your engagement photos as it also features a lake too.
Score: 8 out of 10
Best for: Outside Dungannon town
Nice Places to take Engagement Photos
Tannaghmore Gardens
Rebecca and Tyler’s engagement was in the location called Tannaghmore Gardens as it was one of the nicest places to take engagement photos in as the weather was a bit windy before we proceeded into Tannaghmore Gardens. One of the best locations for engagement photos is the gardens located in Lurgan and Craigavon so is ideal for both the town and the location. We started with some active type shots as I usually do when starting off engagement photo shoots. There were some nice interesting areas in Tannaghmore and it’d be very hard not to get some great engagement pics here.
What is the meaning of Engagement Photography?
Engagement photography is a way to embrace your engagement with just the two of you as a couple enjoying some quality time together. You can get creative and experiment a little with it as opposed to something traditional and perhaps a little boring. Any time of the year is great but especially the summer is best. Sunset offers some great photography opportunities for your engagement with the vibrant oranges, yellows and purples of the sky lighting up behind you.
Review
Had a great time doing our engagement photo shoot. He puts a lot of work and effort into getting the perfect photos. Highly recommended! Rebecca
What makes Tannaghmore Gardens one of the best engagement photo locations?
Picturesque setting, with lots of areas to explore, a kid’s play area, a maze, sculptures, animal farm within walking distance.
Website: https://getactiveabc.com/parks/tannaghmore-gardens
Engagement Shoot Location
Engagement shoot in Tannaghmore Gardens Lurgan with great couple Sarah and Connor which ranged from fun to romantic. They have a young son and you wouldn't think it a wee' baby on the way too! Looking forward to capturing your day in Portadown and hope you’re happy with your engagement photos.
We took a walk around the gardens taking pics as we explored the area a little. Active type pictures are first just to get the couple used to me taking pictures as it can be a bit stiff at the beginning as they are a stranger to the couple so might take a while to get used to. You want a casual type engagement photoshoot before any romantic and if they are up for it kissing-type photos. You don’t want to start with these first, best to leave for a bit. To break things up a bit I tried some variations like the couple sitting down with a few where the female is in front of the male with some hugging. Anything really to break things up a bit. A photo of the engagement ring on the female’s hand but also within the environment is good too but perhaps not essential.
Do you need Engagement Photos?
Engagement photos are a great way to get familiar with someone taking your photos before your day. It’s very laid back and casual compared to your actual day which can be quite busy and rushed. In my opinion, it’s essential. Most include engagements which are similar to engagement pics with your package as I do. Engagement photos can be traditional or can be something a bit different and more creative reflecting both your personalities, it depends on the couple. We’ll try some poses as well as some natural and less posed.
What colours to wear?
If you are having an engagement shoot in a park or garden-type environment where there are lots of greens then you shouldn’t wear greens, you should wear colours contrasting to this such as blues, purples and white, light colours are great, anything except greens would be ideal. This is because you will blend in too much to the background. You want your engagement shoot to pop. You don’t need any more outfits other than the outfit you're wearing. This is a bit overkill. If you want bring some props but again you don’t need to.
Review
"Made us feel so comfortable and we had a great laugh! We LOVE every single one of our pics and can’t wait to see how our pics turn out. Highly recommend!" Sarah.
Nice places to take Engagement Photos for a Surprise
Amanda and Ian wanted a few suggestions for nice places to take engagement photos for their surprise engagement and we chose Tannaghmore Lurgan which is located close to the M1 motorway was a big surprise for Ian. I don’t think he quite knew what hit him, in a good way though, lol.
Amanda booked me as their surprise engagement photo which is located close to the M1 motorway making it very handy. We captured a varied range of photos, mixing things up a bit too. I’d been here a few times previously as it’s fairly local to me but there is always the odd wee place you pick up on each time you visit the park. A USB was ordered then Amanda and Ian picked a photo that would be printed onto a large canvas. Thanks for asking me to shoot your engagement, Amanda and Ian.
Why a surprise engagement?
These were surprise engagement photos for the couple as Amanda had arranged with me. Ian must have thought he was heading to the park for a look around as he looked gobsmacked! Surprise engagement photos can be set up anywhere but it just so happened this was not too far away from the couple. Great engagement photo shoot today. Highly recommend him to everyone. He took lots of time getting proper shots and beautiful settings. Can’t wait to see our pictures now. Thanks. Amanda
How do you plan a surprise engagement?
The planning of your surprise engagement photos needs to be thought out a little and pre-planned, although not too much and it will spoil the excitement. A good planner, like myself, will help you plan things out so if you have any enquiries or this is something you're thinking about get in touch with me as I’d love to hear from you. Don’t your partner know about this as it’ll ruin the surprise. Just tell them you’re going out for a drive to a nice location or park.
LOCATIONS FOR ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS
Places to take Engagement Pictures
Lurgan Park
Brooke and Scott asked me to photograph theirs in one of a list of places to take engagement pictures in Lurgan Park and the day started with a hint of sunshine before ending in the rain as we sheltered under some trees. Brooke, Scott and I started with some quick active type shots before making our way to the rear of Lurgan Park where there was a bridge. We briefly discussed their up-and-coming day. I also brought my prism to obscure some of the images a little, not to be overused though.
Engagement Photos
I tried to mix up a bit and anything interesting we saw we grabbed a photo or two of including some more funny engagement pics. The weather was fairly good when we arrived but unfortunately, the rain got the better of us so we headed to shelter (underneath some trees as there were enough of them!) and briefly discussed their big day. We ended with a few more around this area. Looking forward to documenting your day and hope you like your engagement pics thanks for booking me.
Hopefully, you’ll get some fun engagement picture ideas from this blog. You can try a variety of couple poses incorporating some fun poses too. In my engagement shoots I always try to incorporate fun into the photos. Your engagement photography should have a range of varied photos not just fun.
What makes this a great place for an engagement session?
Park setting (I understand one of the biggest and best), plenty of different areas, trees, shelter (in case it rains), lake with swans, kids play area.
Address: Lurgan Park, Windsor Ave, Lurgan, Craigavon BT67 9BG 07766 740427
Website: https://walkni.com/walks/lurgan-park
Engagement Photo Location Ideas
Edenvilla Park
Tracey and Wayne wanted some engagement photo location ideas and we chose the super super fun Edenvilla Park in Portadown which is close to us all and gave us time to go over their schedule. Edenvilla Park is just off Bachelors Walk and is easily found as Edenvilla Secret Garden is quite well known in the town. We started at Edenvilla Park with some active type photos along the path with the couple chatting to each other before walking around the side of the park past the sculptures and carvings which were located throughout the park. The park is within walking distance of the Edenderry and Seagoe areas of the town. The great couple booked me for their engagement photos.
A great photo location idea
The couple’s fun engagement shoot in Portadown was interesting as it’s quite a big park, although there are bigger parks about it, and has some interesting areas to shoot in. County Armagh is known as Orchard County so plenty of trees and apple trees about. The area is nice and clean for the family and kids to play in including wonderland and bird trails. Hope you're happy with your engagement pictures and looking forward to your in the Tullylagan Hotel thanks for booking me
I shoot engagement photos in Portadown, County Armagh and all over the province. If you live in the area and want to have some engagement photos here that’s great as there are lots of parks but if you want to get away and head somewhere else that sounds good to me, just let me know. Your engagement shoot doesn’t need to be confined to the town that you live in, it can be shot anywhere. Do you have anywhere special to both of you as a couple? We’ll make our way there for an engagement photo shoot.
What makes fun engagement photos?
Engagement photos should not be all serious type photos there should be a few relaxed fun engagement photos thrown in too to loosen things up a bit and for good measure. There are some funny couples so why shouldn’t this be in your engagement photos too along with possibly some romantic-type pics? Let’s make it fun!
Ideas for an engagement photoshoot
Some ideas for an engagement photo shoot could be to bring some engagement props with you but you need to work that out as a couple as you don’t want the photos to look odd. Photo props can be many different things like a blanket for you to sit on and even a picnic or what about some signs with your names on one or both? Another prop would be some bubbly drink popping the cork and having a drink to celebrate. This can be non-alcoholic for those who don’t drink not forgetting you have to drive home too so probably not wide buying alcohol drink unless you live within walking distance of the park or location you want your engagement photo shoot in. Posing can be a bit awkward for some so maybe if that’s the case a more natural photo shoot is better.
What makes a Park a great location for Engagement Photos?
Plenty of areas to explore the setting, a secret garden, plenty of sculptures located around the park, kids’ play area.
Website: https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/edenvilla-park-p715801
Engagement Photo Place
Portadown People’s Park
A great location and fairly central to Portadown town centre is Portadown Peoples Park which is one of several places to do engagement photos in town. It’s about a five-minute walk down Woodhouse Street, under the tunnel, past the train station and on Park Road. Within the park, there are plenty of walking, and cycling paths and a pond with two bridges around the middle. The park has been spruced up recently and is great for walkers and cyclists.
What makes this place a nice place for Engagement Photos?
Within walking distance to Portadown town centre, pond, plenty of open grass areas.
Website: https://getactiveabc.com/parks/portadown-peoples-park
There are many best places to take Engagement Photos in Armagh and we chose Palace Demesne
After a hunt for the best places to take engagement photos in Armagh, we picked Palace Demesne as you have quite a bit of land with plenty of grass and trees. There is an old derelict building on the grounds as you drive through the entrance which would be great too. A few engagement photos here would make your engagement images that little bit more interesting.
Website: https://visitarmagh.com/places-to-explore/palace-demesne-public-park
Castle Engagement Locations for Photos
There are many castle engagement locations in Northern Ireland. There are Belfast Castle, Castle Coole, Carrickfergus Castle, Antrim Castle, Dunluce Castle, Kinbane Castle, Castlewellan, Monea Castle, Gosford Castle, Tully Castle, Dunseverick Castle and Enniskillen Castle. I’m sure there are many more too. Belfast has, as you’d expect as Belfast is a city, many great planes and locations that can be used for your engagement photos.
Why a Castle Engagement?
A castle engagement is a great way to celebrate your engagement in a unique setting such as a castle. In Northern Ireland, we have plenty of fascinating castles scattered around the province which would make great castle engagement photos. Maybe if you are both Game of Thrones fanatics a castle engagement would be ideal for you and your partner. Antrim Castle Gardens is both modern and still retains an old feel to it. I believe Enniskillen Castle is the same. You can photograph your engagement in any of these castles but some may need a permit and are quite hard to get to.
Modern Castles
If you want a more modern castle in Northern Ireland some of these include Carrickfergus Castle, Belfast Castle, Castlewellan and Gosford Castle. These are usually safe to shoot around as they are more modern so less run down.
Older Castles
An older type of castle looks great and has bags of charm and character as it hasn’t been modernised and fixed up like the above examples. Most likely these are quite old and some examples include Kinbane Castle, Monea Castle, Tully Castle, Dunseverick Castle, Dunluce Castle and Dundrum Castle. Here are just a few more.
Couples Photoshoot Location in the City
Belfast Castle
One of the best engagement locations in Belfast was Victoria and Ryan Belfast Castle engagement photos which overlooks the city. The place has wonderful grounds with a fountain in the middle. It is not that big so a few engagement photos around the location may take up only about 20 minutes of your time. Belfast Castle is one of NI’s most famous landmarks with its distinct architecture located in Cave Hill Country Park with great views of the lough, Belfast and has plenty of natural, archaeological and historical features to see.
Victoria and Ryan’s fun city castle engagement photos in Belfast at one of the best castles in the city on a sunny day as they had the giggles. We photographed a few castle engagement photos of Victoria and Ryan at the fountain (I don’t think you are allowed inside). The location is one of the best engagement places in the city. Looking forward to your big day in both Belfast and Carrickdale, thanks for booking me for your engagement.
Castle Engagement Photos
A castle makes unique engagement photos and Belfast Castle is no exception that’s for sure. Your engagement photoshoot can be shot in a few castles in Northern Ireland and this is only one example. There are a few scattered around the country including Dunseverick Castle, Antrim Castle and Kinbane Castle which are both in ruins. Belfast is more modern as it’s in the city and is also used as a venue and park as well as various other things. A castle has interesting architecture and a more modern castle you are safe to walk around and explore unlike the aforementioned as you can’t get too close to them due to them being ruins. Due to this, they make your engagement photos a bit more romantic, different and rather than a park. Also great if you are into films like Braveheart and Dracula and TV shows like Game of Thrones and The Last Kingdom.
What makes Belfast Castle an ideal location for engagement photos? Architecture, Castle setting, within a short driving distance from Belfast City.
Address: Belfast Castle, Antrim Road, Belfast BT15 5GR. Phone: 028 9077 6925
Website: https://www.belfastcastle.co.uk
Engagement Photos
Carrickfergus Castle
There are many engagement locations in Carrickfergus as I met up with the slightly older couples Liz and Richard for their Carrickfergus Castle engagement pictures beside the shore on a great but not overly sunny day. We didn’t have a lot of time but got a few engagement photos outside the front of the castle. We also went through the schedule for their day. I started with some active-type photos before shooting some hugging and hand-holding which was great fun at Carrick Castle. The Castle is a Norman castle on the northern shore of Belfast lough which played an important military role in the past and is still the best preserved medieval structure in Ireland. The castle now has historical exhibition displays along with canons.
Castle Engagement Photos
We didn’t have a lot of time but got a few castle engagement photos and photos outside Carrickfergus Castle and around that area beside the shore. We also went through the schedule for their big day as they are getting married in the Loughshore Hotel. Castles are interesting places to take engagement photos even though inside the castle is not practical for photos, it’s more outside with their unique look is much more interesting. This castle is no exception. Started with some active-type photos before shooting some hugging and hand-holding which was great fun at Carrick Castle. The area would be great for engagement portraits in the area. All the best and hope you liked your castle engagement photos.
Address: Carrickfergus Castle, Marine Highway Carrickfergus BT38 7BG. 028 9335 1273. Onsite parking
Website: https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/carrickfergus-castle-p674971
Engagement Photo Location
Castle Coole
Natasha’s surprise Castle Coole proposal in Enniskillen we decided there was one place to take engagement photos in as there was plenty of space and was great fun from start to finish and was a super fun surprise engagement proposal by Andrew before you asked Natasha said “Yes”! I was so impressed with Castle Coole that I’m glad I was booked by Andrew as he had contacted me a couple of weeks beforehand to go over his plans for the surprise proposal outside of the castle. The plan was for him to go earlier in the day and set up a few things and then I hid behind some of the trees using a longer zoom lens. Castle Coole is set in a woodland park on a massive estate.
Engagement Proposal Photos
Natasha and Andrew’s surprise engagement proposal photos in Castle Coole and before you ask Natasha said she said yes, take a look. I was so impressed with Enniskillen and Castle Coole that I’d love to shoot your photos in Enniskillen. If you're getting married here or having yours at Castle Coole or anywhere else in Northern Ireland contact me to see if I’m available.
I’m defo glad I was booked for the couple’s surprise engagement proposal as Andrew had contacted me a couple of weeks beforehand to go over his plans for the surprise proposal outside the castle.
The plan was for him to go earlier in the day and set up a few things and then I hid behind some of the trees using a longer zoom lens. We walked around to the front of the building but it was just too much in the open so decided on the forest area. The weather was good on the day although a bit cloudy and I arrived early (as usual). I had seen Andrew set up and I must say it looked fantastic (he must have spent the whole morning working on it). Later on, Andrew texted me to tell me they were coming so I hid in the trees and tried to pretend I was taking the local forest, just in case I was seen, lol.
Engagement Proposal
Anyway, I saw the couple coming and waited behind a tree I could see the surprise on Nastasha’s face as Andrew got down on one knee and proposed. Thankfully she said yes and the photos worked out amazingly! Everyone was over the moon with them. Then I made my way and shot some more she said yes photos including a few fun pictures too.
What makes Castle Coole the best place to take engagement photos? Large estate, acres of land and grass, plenty to explore.
Address: Castle Coole, Enniskillen BT74 6JY. Phone: 028 6632 2690
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/castle-coole
Outdoor Engagement Pictures
Antrim Castle Gardens
Sarah and Jason’s castle engagement photos in Antrim Castle Gardens with the fab couple as they're getting married soon. We decided to meet in between where I live and where they both live. The castle engagement photos shoot started with a bit of rain so we stayed in a sheltered part under some large trees for a little bit. When the rain stopped we did a bit of sightseeing as I must say walks are the best and I must say it’s quite a spot, perfect in fact. We tried a few different ideas and poses in different areas ending back at the entrance for a few final photos.
What makes Antrim Castle Gardens a great place to take engagement photos? Interesting castle architecture, acres of land and grass, plenty to explore.
Address: 24 Castle St, Antrim BT41 4AU
Forest Engagement Photo Spots
I also know of a couple of well-known forest engagement photo spots and to be honest there are a couple of spots in each city or town I’ve been to so many over the years! Just two are Parkanaur Forest Park and Ely Lodge Forest.
Parkanaur Forest Park
The couple’s fun Parkanaur Forest Park engagement in Dungannon on a great sunny day. We picked Parkanaur right beside Parkanaur Manor Park and I must say even though I’d never heard of the place before I was blown away by the stunning surroundings. It also didn’t hurt us that the weather was fantastic too, a real winner.
The couple’s fun forest engagement photos in Parkanaur Forest Park and Parkanaur Manor Park in Dungannon on a great sunny day. We picked Forest Park right beside Manor Park and I must say even though I’d never heard of the location before I was blown away by the stunning surroundings. Ideal for an engagement shoot where I’ve shot in Tullylagan. It also didn’t hurt us that the weather was fantastic too, a real winner. I believe the engagement ring was supplied by local Jewellers in Dungannon. The location would be great for some photos too never mind an engagement photo shoot! I’ve also photographed a Dungannon Park Engagement too you can have a look at.
Forest Engagement Photos
Below is just a small selection of forest engagement photos we captured on the day. The location is about 4 miles west of Dungannon and leads to the waterfall trail which takes you along the side of the deer park. We explored a little of this but I’m sure there is quite a lot more to explore in the forest.
Why Forest Engagement Photos?
The reason why forest engagement photos are a great idea in Northern Ireland is because we have a lot of varied forests within the country in pretty much every country and forests offer many unique takes on your engagement photos. Even though a forest is essentially a forest that is short-sighted because within a forest there are many varied beautiful forest variations to visit and photograph your engagement in.
What do you wear to engagement photos in the forest?
You need to wear outdoors-type clothes possibly even boots as you're out in the forest and some are easy to get to and some require some walking. It depends on how remote the forest is and how far the actual forest is from the car park too. Dressy is fine but don’t forget you’ll be in the forest!
Update
I was just booked for the fab couple’s engagement photos only and have found out that they are no longer together so I have removed both the couple’s first names from the blog post as a mark of respect. The couple won the engagement through a competition and whoever entered would have been informed and made clear that some photos were allowed to be uploaded on the website. All the best with your future.
What makes Parkanaur Forest Park an ideal location for engagement photos? Architecture, manor setting, within a short driving distance from Dungannon.
Website: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/parkanaur-forest-park
Places for Engagement Photos
Ely Lodge Forest
The best place for engagement photos in Enniskillen was Ely Lodge Forest at Lower Lough Erne for the couple so we decided to meet here beside the town centre and ranged from fun to romantic. The weather app in the morning forecasted a bit of rain throughout the day with a few gaps and right enough when I was driving to Ely Lodge Forest car park and Forest Walk beside there was a bit of rain but we met up in the afternoon and it wasn’t too bad at this point weather-wise.
Abigail and Darren’s engagement photo shoot in Ely Lodge Forest at Lower Lough Erne in the town ranged from fun to romantic. Certainly one of my favourite locations for an engagement photo shoot right up there with my other best places for engagement photos. The weather app in the morning forecasted a bit of rain throughout the day with a few gaps and right enough when I was driving to the car park and Forest Walk close to Lough Erne Resort there was a bit of rain but we met up in the afternoon and it wasn’t too bad at this point weather-wise.
We took a walk further along the path for the couple’s engagement photo shoot which had Lower Lough Erne on one side and lots of trees on the other side. The paths were quite curved and there were a couple of gaps reaching out to the water. We started with some activity before mixing things up a bit with a few different combinations just to break things a bit and make them more interesting. We shot some wide shots taking in the environment and the forest, medium-type shots and also close-ups ending in me experimenting with reflections with my prism.
Outdoor Engagement Photo Shoot Locations
The outdoor engagement photo shoot location was ideal in more ways than one as the couple with myself explored a little of the local forest as well as got to know the couple. The outdoor setting was superb but even though we photographed a range of engagement photos we didn’t get too many romantic-type photos, plenty of traditional engagement photos though. Thanks for booking me and looking forward to your big day.
What makes Ely Forest one of the best engagement photo shoot locations in Enniskillen? At a lake, peaceful setting, people are out walking, and fishing in quite a small area.
Address: Lough Shore Road, Blaney, Fermanagh BT93 7FH
Website: https://cuilcaghlakelands.org/geosite/ely-lodge-forest
ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS LOCATIONS
Lake Engagement Photo Locations
There are lots of lakes in NI that would be great for your engagement photos in Northern Ireland. The Galgorm Hotel and Resort has a small lake beside it.
Engagement Shoot Location
Camlough Lake
There’s no two ways about it the best engagement shoot locations in Newry were at Marian and Tony’s Camlough Lake shoot with their wee’ pet dog as we headed to the area, which by the way I’ve never heard of. I called in with Marian and Tony, who are both mature and an older couple, and we all decided the lake might make a great engagement spot in Newry. As I'm not from the area I'd never heard of the location until they had mentioned it. I must say it is a great spot. Camlough is a disused reservoir which is well stocked with plenty of fish including pike, bream, roach and perch. Fishing from a boat is allowed which requires a permit from the council.
Engagement Pictures
The lake is a large reservoir not used anymore in Newry. The lake is well-stocked with various fish so is a well-known spot for fishermen. It’s also a great wee spot for taking your dog for a walk too and made the ideal spot in Northern Ireland for an engagement photoshoot with this great older mature couple. We continued our outdoor engagement pictures with a trip to Derrymore House which is an 18th-century thatched house overlooking the Mourne mountains in Newry. We weren’t here that long but merely 10 minutes or so but Derrymore House is a beautiful location.
What makes Camlough Lake one of my favourite engagement shoot locations in Newry? At a lake, peaceful setting, people are out walking and fishing.
Address: Newtown Road, Camlough BT35 7JJ.
Website: https://www.visitmournemountains.co.uk/things-to-do/camlough-lake-p697411
Best Place for Engagement Photos
The Galgorm
Charley and Gary's engagement photoshoot in The Galgorm located beside the hotel and spa as we shot some great engagement photos at the great hall.
They are getting married in the House of Worship HOW. The couple’s location was picked by Charley for us to meet and have a few engagement photos. The location was about halfway where I live and they live in Ballymena. Defo is one of my favourite locations it’s up there with my best places for engagement photos. It was a bit early to go through the schedule but Charley (short for Charlotte) is from Ballymena and Gary is from Newtownabbey so I wasn’t 100% sure it was a good spot for an engagement but how wrong was I as the Galgorm was an ideal location! They have a nice lake beside the swing, the building itself is called The Great Hall. There are plenty of areas outside with lots of space for photos and pictures. The location also has large grounds with ample car parking space.
We took a walk around the area and then on over to Galgorm Hotel and Spa for the engagement photoshoot beside the river before heading back. The fab couple wanted a few of their proposal so Gary got down on his knee and proposed. Looking forward to meeting you again later on in the year and thanks for booking me. All in all a great time was had by all.
Do you need an Engagement Photoshoot?
Yes, You defo need an engagement photoshoot
Address: 136 Fenaghy Rd, Ballymena BT42 1EA
Website: https://www.galgorm.com
Places for Engagement Photos
Clare Glen
Also, have a look at Clare Glen in Tandragee which is close to Banbridge as you have large paths along the River Cusher so you have plenty of space for your engagement photos. There is a wooden bridge you can walk over to get to even more beautiful areas within the glen.
Address: Markethill Rd, Tandragee, Craigavon BT62 2ET
Estate Engagement Place
Let’s look at a public estate for some ideas and inspiration. That is a large estate open to the public for free. This may be closed at certain times of the year so check out their website for more info.
Outdoor Engagement Pictures
Stormont Estate
Stormont Estate and Park (also called Mo Mowlam Play Park) is a location in the city that has great gardens, plenty of paths for walking and dog walking, and fitness and adventure trails so is a very popular spot to bring the kids. The grounds themselves would be ideal places as we walked around taking photos with the couple and their kids too ending in a couple of photos with the famous parliament buildings in the background. As you can see these were taken in autumn time with the lovely brown leaves on the ground. This engagement location is great if you have kids as there are plenty of things for the kids to do.
Autumn Engagement Photos
Val and Kyle's fun autumn engagement photos in Stormont Park would make an ideal spot for portraits. I was booked for their big day at short notice about a week but that didn't stop us from grabbing some autumn engagement photos of their engagement with their two kids at the estate. The castle is within walking distance of the hotel and would make a great location for portraits. Looking forward to your big day.
Why have Autumn Engagement Photos?
You need autumn engagement photos in Belfast as it’s such a beautiful time of the year with the brown autumn leaves falling off the trees on the ground. The vibrant colours make for great engagement photos that’s for sure. It is still not too cold as autumn is coming out of the summer months so t-shirts and more casual clothes can still be worn as seen in these photos. The couple’s engagement photos only last about 30 minutes but we got some great photos to remind them of the occasion.
What do you wear to an autumn engagement shoot?
Autumn and fall engagement photos are beautiful as you have the shades of yells and browns on the ground and some leaves still hanging on the trees too. You want some of these colours in your clothes but if you wear all yellows and oranges you’ll blend in too much. I wouldn’t personally overdo wearing these colours. Try to look in your wardrobe for some contrasting colours that work with yellows and oranges.
Autumn Engagement Shoot
This is just one park in Belfast that can be used for your autumn engagement shoot but there are many parks in the city that you can shoot your autumn engagement in including Botanic Gardens in Queen's Quarter, Cave Hill Country Park, Black Mountain, Victoria Park, Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park in Upper Malone Road, Ormeau Park, Belvoir Forest Park in Belvoir Drive, Lagan Valley Regional Park in Milltown Road to name just a few. All these parks would be great.
What makes Stormont Estate an ideal place for engagement photos? It’s a park, plenty of points of interest and monuments, a parliament setting and is within a short driving distance from Belfast city.
Address: Stormont Estate, Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast BT4 3SH
Website: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/about-stormont-estate
Country Engagement Location
There are plenty of country and rustic ideas and inspiration.
Best Place for Engagement Photos
The Ring of Gullion
Inga and Andy’s rustic country engagement photos in The Ring of Gullion as I met the couple to discuss their up-and-coming plans. The location wasn’t too far away but there was a bit of a ring of gullion walk involved as you’d expect from a walking trail.
Country Engagement Photos
The area is beautiful and out in the wilderness away from the town making for great country engagement photos and is certainly a bit of a hidden gem for walkers. If I lived close by this is defo one of the first places I’d visit. There is another local spot called Camlough Lake that would also be ideal. Looking forward to shooting your big day and thanks for hiring. Looking for country engagement photos in Northern Ireland and stuck? Have a look at the location.
I love rustic country engagement photos because you are out in the country in the good weather exploring the countryside with like-minded people who also like the country too. You don’t need to be a country-type person (or a cowboy) to love the countryside. If you are stuck for engagement ideas head to the country, you’ll not be disappointed with its charm and you’ll get some great engagement photos too.
Why are engagement photos rustic?
Engagement photos that are rustic, old and rusty usually shot out in the country have more earthy brown and yellows in terms of colours. Trees that are possibly old and some photo ideas might be old things like a tractor lying abandoned for years developing a rustic look and feel to its exterior as you can see the corrosion. These would make great rustic country engagement photos. If you like this look for your engagement shoot contact me to arrange a booking.
What makes The Ring of Gullion a great location for engagement photos? It’s a rustic country environment and within a short driving distance from Newry.
Website: https://ringofgullion.org
Islands Engagement Photo Location
Some great engagement photo locations are beside either an island, river or lake that would make a great location for your engagement photos.
One of the best Engagement Photo locations on Oxford Island
Jasmine and Noel wanted nature so we looked at some of the best engagement photo locations and picked Oxford Island, Craigavon were great fun from start to finish and we got great pics celebrating their love.
Nature
Noels’s mum was also there for the nature engagement photos as she gave them a lift and stayed around waiting. The weather was ideal as it was sunny but also slightly cloudy. There are lots of areas close by so we didn’t stray too far away but started the on the jetty at the discovery centre and walked around to the forest area. There are some fantastic walks here so there’s no area that doesn’t look fantastic! Unfortunately, we didn’t have the time to head down to the marina part.
I try out a few different poses throughout the engagement pictures from active to casual to romantic which sometimes works and sometimes doesn’t. The trick is not to over-pose couples as it just looks a bit awkward, more natural engagement pictures are the best. You want to photograph engagement pictures traditionally with happy couples not awkward. Most of the time, although not always essential, I get a few of engagement rings too. On the female’s hand and maybe on top of something in the environment, we were shooting in.
I strongly recommend having your engagement pictures shot in a nature-inspired environment like a park as nothing beats getting out into nature. Your photos are more natural and vibrant. Nature offers plenty to photograph and then some!
How do you take natural Engagement Pictures?
You can take more natural engagement photos by wearing something comfortable that you like, see below. Maybe natural means less posed and more natural in that the connection between the couple and nature is nature. If you like nature take your engagement photos in nature, not some stuffy city where you're dying to get out!
What should I avoid?
Clothes with too many patterns and colours, just stick to something plain
Clothes that look too much alike
Massive logos look like you are advertising a brand
Review
Such a lovely guy who's very professional at what he does, thanks for taking Noel and Jasmine’s pictures. Noels mum. Thanks for booking me and congratulations on your engagement.
Engagement Photos
Engagement photos are a must-have for so many reasons. I’m sure I’ve already explained above but your engagement could take a while to come to the big day, sometimes 1 to 2 years but you want some engagement photos now don’t you, you don’t want them in 2 years. Am I right? Thought so. These don’t need to be heavily posed but think the opposite more relaxed and fun. As you can see from the above we have plenty of locations within the province to take engagement photos in even in your town or city would be great.