Hey Lovers!
So I have decided to compile a little list of what I feel are the 10 best 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 in weekends! Check out my wedding and maternity photo galleries to see the photos I got from sessions here! You’ll understand why I consider this to be 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 got 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 in 2021!
Beacon, NY. My family and I have been here several times. I even did some family portraits at this location for the holidays last year. The views by the water and walking trails lined with tall grasses make for some amazing photos.
Ulster County, NY. A definite favorite of ours! I have been dying to take some beautiful couple shots in front of Awosting Falls. There is a lot more besides the falls to see in this park as well.
Montgomery, NY. I had never heard of this place until recently and it is an absolutely stunning hidden gem! Floral gardens in the spring and summer plus tons of beautiful foliage in the fall. A permit is required to shoot here.
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
Hyde Park, NY. We learned about this place on a camping trip with friends several years ago. Now we try to visit it at least once a year! The grounds are free to visit and tours of the mansion are paid, though may not be open currently due to COVID-19 restrictions. Call ahead or check their website for updated information.. There are beautiful views and gardens; so much to see and lots of beautiful backdrops for photos!
Vanderbilt Mansion Historic Site
Hyde Park, NY. I had heard great things about this site & finally got the chance to shoot an engagement photo session here a couple of weeks ago! You can check out the highlights from that session here. Vanderbilt Mansion is incredibly beautiful, elegant and rustic all al the same time. The garden, architecture & views are breathtaking and provide amazing backdrops for photos.
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 checked this place out a few months 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.
Please make sure to check with all of these locations in advance, to see if a permit is required to have a photo session done.
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!
