5 Lush Charlotte Parks for Your Engagement Session
Looking for a place to shoot your engagement session in Charlotte?
Go to the park. Parks are free or low-cost options that offer a variety of backdrops for your engagement photos. We have you covered if you’re seeking a park that can spark your imagination of the perfect pictures. In fact, here are our top five Charlotte parks to consider for your session:
1. Romare Bearden Park
Beautifully set In the center of Uptown, Bearden Park is the backdrop for any engagement session where couples can let their friends and family know they’re representing the “Queen Cit-tay”! The views up skylines that surround a flowery atmosphere offer a photo location for engaged pairs of all types. Located at 300 S. Church Street, Bearden is nestled within walking distance to...everything Uptown! Choose from over five acres of greenery, several fountains, and a mini waterfall that lights up at night. For the art lovers -- or for those looking to add a certain oomph to their photos -- tall, steel sculptures stand proudly to join you in celebrating your “YES!”
Bearden’s number one on the list with good reason: you won’t have to pick between a photo session that captures city life (with restaurants, workplace, and other city chic things) and images filled with nature’s decor, because this spot has it all. Whether you’re new to Charlotte or you’re a native Carolinian, Bearden Park is the one-stop for anything you desire in your engagement shoot.
2. Freedom Park
For engagement sessions, Freedom Park is a highly sought-after spot; If you’ve ever been there, then you’re probably not surprised! There are open spaces for miles, a sizable pond, several bridges, numerous nice walkways, and an antique train. Make sure the kiddos aren’t playing hide-and-seek around the engine unless you want extras in your photoshoot! Freedom is centered on a seven-acre lake that stretches from historic Dilworth to Myers Park. Located at 1900 East Boulevard, Freedom Park is a close escape from Uptown Charlotte. Please note: parking can be a challenge when the park is crowded, so opt for a ride-sharing service.
3. Midtown Park
Midtown Park is a minipark with maximized choices when it comes to engagement shoots. Located at South Kings Drive and Pearl Park Way, Midtown features a sphere that adds shine to an already bright future for engaged duos. If you prefer shade, in a good way that is, there are trees that surround the lawn. This park shares its natural beauty with views of nearby Uptown Charlotte. You’ll be amazed at what the park offers in such a minimal space -- you’ll only need each other.
4. Marshall Park
At 800 East Third Street in Charlotte’s Second Ward, Marshall Park is another Uptown wonder for an engagement shoot. Marshall’s focal point is a 1.24-acre pond with a fountain; the ducks may invite themselves into your session. The green open spaces often welcome lunchtime guests so try to schedule your session in the morning, after work, or on the weekends.
5. Jetton Park
Though Char-Meck appears to be transforming into Little Atlanta -- with its residential and commercial explosion -- there is an escape from the madness that makes for scenic engagement photos. Discovered in the Lake Norman town of Cornelius you’ll find Jetton Park, a 104-acre oasis. Jetton is a quick trip up north on I-77, where you’ll have a choice of backdrops, from the Waterfront Hall indoor shelter to tennis courts, to a formal garden, to a sandy-tan beach. Leave your stilettos at home; slide on some flip-flops or go barefoot. You and your mate can sit on a bench that swings, for k-i-s-s-i-n-g, or be a kid at heart on the playground. Jetton Park is a hidden gem located at 19000 Jetton Road in Cornelius. It’s about twenty minutes from Charlotte, but not too close to the hustle, nor the bustle!
Charlotte’s parks have much to offer for couples looking for the ideal engagement shoot setting. You’ll want to make sure you have what you’ll need to make your picture day a great one. Bring clothing options and secure your spot to change in and out of attire. Pick your level of greenery -- or go green-less with a beach-only session at Jetton. When it comes to a park photo session, the possibilities, and the trees, are plentiful.
About the Author
I’m Robert, a wedding photographer based in Charlotte, NC. I blog to share helpful wedding planning tips, document my couples’ sessions, and share a piece of me with you.
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