10 Best Photography Locations
Crystal Torres
July 17, 2023
Hello my Friends!
So I have decided to compile a list of some of my favorite photography locations in the Hudson Valley Area, so you can have a directory of places to have your photo sessions with me! I am fairly new to the Hudson Valley area, so I’m still discovering different places and hidden gems. I will be updating this list as time goes on and I discover more amazing photo locations. Can’t wait to have an engagement or elopement session with you.
Hudson Valley Parks
New Windsor, NY. My family and I come here often. This spot is becoming a regular location for me. The views here do not get old! The walking trail is amazing and easy. The little beach area offers incredible views of the Hudson. The best time to have photos done here is a weekday morning; it can get really busy here on weekends! Check out my wedding and maternity photo galleries to see the photos I’ve gotten from sessions here! You’ll understand why I consider this to be one of the 10 best photography locations in the Hudson Valley area.
Newburgh, NY. A beautiful and scenic local park with ruins, trails, lots of trees and tons of colorful foliage in the fall.
Beacon, NY. 2020 was the year of Madam Brett Park for me! I’ve gotten to know this park really well, since lots of my clients wanted photos at this beautiful location and easy to walk trail. I am so excited to bring more couples here, soon!
Beacon, NY. The views by the water and walking trails lined with tall grasses make for some amazing photos. Walking level is super easy, so it’s an ideal location for any type of photography, but especially sessions involving small children or expecting moms.
Ulster County, NY. A definite favorite of ours, but has become increasingly popular over the last couple of years. There is a lot more to see besides the falls; the trails are so beautiful and scenic! Pro tip: always call ahead of your photo session to make sure there aren’t any trail or location closures that might affect your session.
Rhinebeck, NY. This is a stunner of a location, but be prepared to hike up a rather steep hill! The walk is totally worth it, though! The views at the top are incredibly beautiful; you truly have to see it for yourself to understand.
Historic Sites and Gardens
Historic sites, vineyards and gardens generally require a photography permit and/or a small fee to take photos on their grounds. Make sure you call ahead for more details and information. Their websites are linked in each heading.
Hyde Park, NY. We discovered this beautiful gem some years ago while vacationing with friends. Now we try to visit it at least once a year! The grounds are free to visit and tours of the mansion itself are a paid attraction. There are beautiful views and gardens; so much to see and lots of beautiful backdrops for photos!
Vanderbilt Mansion Historic Site
Hyde Park, NY. You can check out some photos from an engagement session that I shot, here. Vanderbilt Mansion is incredibly beautiful, elegant and rustic all at the same time. The garden, architecture & views are breathtaking and provide amazing backdrops for photos.
Poughkeepsie, NY. Floral gardens in the spring and summer plus tons of beautiful foliage in the fall. The views by the overlook are also stunning. A permit is required for photography at this location, so make sure you visit their website or call ahead before your session.
Cragsmoor, New York. This beautiful little chapel is perched right at an incredible location called Sam’s Point. You’ll be able to see an incredible view of the Shawangunk Ridge. My family and I explored around this location some time ago and were blown away. We were unable to see inside of the beautiful little chapel, due to COVID-19 restrictions, but hopefully we will be able to visit again soon.
Honorable mention: Orange County Arboretum,
A beautiful, serene, walkable and scenic garden area. It’s an amazing location for weddings as well!
**Please make sure to check with all of these locations in advance, to see if a permit or fee is required to have a photo session done. Their websites are linked in each heading.**
In Conclusion..
I put this list together for you beautiful couples who are interested in a shoot with me, but have no idea where they might want photos taken. I hope this list inspires you as you search for the 10 best photography locations for your engagement session, maternity session or wedding portraits!
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