One of the questions I hear most often is, “Where should we take our photos?”
The answer depends less on what’s popular and more on what feels like you.
Philadelphia offers an incredible variety of portrait locations. Within just a few miles, you can find grand marble architecture, quiet historic gardens, elegant museums, tree-lined parks, and some of the most recognizable city streets in the country. Each location creates a different atmosphere, and choosing the right one can completely shape the feel of your photographs.
After photographing weddings and engagement sessions throughout Philadelphia, these are the places I return to again and again—not simply because they’re beautiful, but because each offers something unique.
Merchants’ Exchange
Located in the heart of Old City, Merchants’ Exchange is one of Philadelphia’s most elegant architectural landmarks.
The sweeping marble staircase, curved façade, and towering Corinthian columns create portraits that feel timeless and refined. The neutral stone allows the focus to remain on the couple while adding just enough grandeur to make every photograph feel editorial.
One of the things I love most about this location is how versatile it is. Within a few minutes, you can move from the marble architecture to cobblestone streets, historic brick buildings, and quieter corners of Old City, creating an entire gallery without ever feeling repetitive.
Photographer’s Perspective
If a couple tells me they want their photographs to feel classically Philadelphia with a bright, elegant, and editorial aesthetic, Merchants’ Exchange is almost always one of the first places I recommend.
It’s also one of my favorite locations when couples want a space that works beautifully for every part of the portrait experience. The grand staircase creates an elegant setting for romantic portraits, while the front of the building provides plenty of space for bridal party photographs and family formals. It’s one of the few locations in Philadelphia where couples can capture timeless portraits and comfortably photograph larger groups without needing to move to another location.
Merchants’ Exchange Photography Permit
If your group includes eight or more people—including your photography and videography teams—you’ll need to obtain a photography permit. You can learn more about the permit requirements and submit your application here.
18th Century Garden
Hidden behind Philadelphia’s historic streets, the 18th Century Garden feels like a small escape from the city.
Seasonal flowers, brick pathways, lush greenery, and a beautiful wooden pergola create a softer atmosphere than many of Philadelphia’s architectural landmarks. The garden is especially beautiful during spring and early summer when everything is in bloom.
The beautiful wooden pergola also offers a practical advantage on wedding days. If there’s a light drizzle, it provides a charming spot to continue photographing while staying partially sheltered. For couples who love nature but also want the charm of Old City nearby, the 18th Century Garden offers the best of both worlds.
Photographer’s Perspective
I especially love recommending the 18th Century Garden for couples planning a first look. Because the garden is fully enclosed, it feels much more private and intimate than many of Philadelphia’s popular portrait locations, allowing couples to share that moment without the distractions of busy city streets.
It’s also a wonderful choice for couples who are drawn to lush greenery, seasonal flowers, and a romantic garden setting while still being just steps away from the historic charm of Old City.
18th Century Garden Photography Permit
If your group includes eight or more people—including your photography and videography teams—a photography permit is required. For additional information about permit requirements or to submit an application, click here.
Philadelphia City Hall
Philadelphia City Hall is one of the most requested portrait locations among our couples, and for good reason. Its grand architecture, dramatic archways, intricate stonework, and timeless character create photographs that feel unmistakably Philadelphia. It’s an especially popular choice for couples getting married at nearby venues like the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Crystal Tea Room, The Grand Belle, The Lucy, and The Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia, thanks to its close proximity and incredible variety of backdrops.
Photographer’s Perspective
If you’re drawn to images with a more dramatic, editorial feel, Philadelphia City Hall is one of my favorite places to photograph. The contrast between the natural light streaming through the archways and the rich stone and marble architecture creates beautiful depth, resulting in portraits that feel timeless, elegant, and full of character.
For couple portraits and smaller wedding parties, I almost always recommend the East Market Street side of City Hall. This area features a beautiful staircase, quieter surroundings, and some of the best light around the building, making it perfect for romantic portraits and intimate group photos.
For larger bridal parties and family portraits, the South Broad Street side offers more open space while still showcasing the iconic architecture of City Hall. It’s also one of my favorite spots for classic editorial portraits that highlight both the couple and the grandeur of Philadelphia’s most recognizable landmark.
City Hall Photography Permit
No photography permit is required for wedding and engagement photos at Philadelphia City Hall.
Rodin Museum
If you’re dreaming of wedding portraits with a timeless European feel, the Rodin Museum is one of the most beautiful locations in Philadelphia. Its Beaux-Arts architecture, formal gardens, stunning pool, and tree-lined walkways create an elegant backdrop that feels more like Europe than Center City.
Although it’s located just minutes from downtown Philadelphia, the museum feels surprisingly quiet and tucked away, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s energy. It’s also one of my favorite portrait locations following ceremonies at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul because it’s only a few minutes away, allowing couples to maximize portrait time without adding extra travel to their wedding day.
Photographer’s Perspective
The Rodin Museum is perfect for couples who love a natural, elegant, and editorial aesthetic. The soft natural light, symmetrical pathways, and classic architecture create timeless portraits that feel effortless, refined, and sophisticated. Every season photographs beautifully here—from the blooming gardens of spring and lush greenery in summer to the rich colors of fall and the quiet simplicity of winter. Whether we’re photographing on the front steps, along the formal gardens, or in front of the museum’s grand entrance, every corner offers a stunning backdrop for wedding and engagement portraits.
Photography Permit Information
A photography permit is required for professional wedding and engagement photography at the Rodin Museum. I recommend submitting your permit application well in advance, especially during peak wedding season. You can find more information about permit requirements and submit your application here.
Longwood Gardens
For couples who are willing to travel just outside of Philadelphia, Longwood Gardens is one of the most spectacular locations for wedding and engagement portraits in the region. Located about an hour from Center City, its breathtaking gardens, grand fountains, and beautifully landscaped pathways create a setting unlike anywhere else in the Philadelphia area.
Whether you’re envisioning lush spring blooms, vibrant summer gardens, rich fall colors, or the beauty of the fountain displays, Longwood Gardens offers stunning scenery throughout the year. Every season brings something unique, making it a location couples return to again and again for timeless, one-of-a-kind romantic photographs.
Photographer’s Perspective
Longwood Gardens is one of my favorite locations to recommend for couples who love bright, elegant, and editorial wedding photographs surrounded by nature and beautiful architecture. The Main Fountain Garden is especially stunning, with its European-inspired architecture, grand fountains, formal gardens, and timeless architectural details creating an unforgettable backdrop for portraits.
One of the biggest advantages of Longwood Gardens is the incredible variety it offers. Within a single portrait session, couples can be photographed among formal gardens, fountains, tree-lined walkways, open lawns, and the beautiful glass conservatories. The variety of scenery creates a wedding gallery with a wide range of backdrops while maintaining a cohesive, timeless look—all without ever needing to travel to a second location.
Longwood Gardens Photography Permit
Professional photography at Longwood Gardens requires advance approval and the appropriate photography permit, depending on the type of session. You can check out the latest photography guidelines and apply for an engagement or wedding photography permit here.
Rittenhouse Square & Center City
Rittenhouse Square has a timeless elegance that feels almost European.
Tree-lined walkways, historic brownstones, charming cafés, and beautifully landscaped gardens create an atmosphere that’s romantic in every season. It’s especially wonderful for engagement sessions because couples can simply enjoy walking together while the neighborhood naturally becomes part of the story.
Photographer’s Perspective
Some of my favorite photographs happen just outside the square itself, where quiet side streets and classic architecture create beautiful moments between destinations.
Rittenhouse Square Photography Permit
No permit required.
Fairmount Water Works
Fairmount Water Works combines historic architecture with some of Philadelphia’s most beautiful waterfront views.
Situated along the Schuylkill River, it offers open skies, elegant stone structures, and views of Boathouse Row and the Philadelphia skyline. The location feels peaceful while still being connected to the city.
Photographer’s Perspective
Fairmount Water Works offers an incredible variety of portrait locations, making it one of my favorite Philadelphia wedding venues to photograph.
The iconic round gazebo is one of my favorite spots for a first look. Its elegant columns and beautiful walkway create a romantic, private setting while also providing a stunning backdrop for family formals and bridal party portraits.
The historic Water Works Pavilion is another favorite, especially on warm, sunny wedding days. Its covered space provides beautiful open shade for family photographs while preserving the timeless architecture and character that make Fairmount Water Works so recognizable.
If your timeline allows, I also love walking with couples toward the Philadelphia Museum of Art. From the top of the hill, you’ll find breathtaking views overlooking the Schuylkill River, Boathouse Row, and Fairmount Water Works. With a little extra time, we can also incorporate the iconic steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Philadelphia skyline, adding even more variety to your wedding gallery.
The portrait opportunities at Fairmount Water Works are truly endless, making it an incredible venue for couples who want a wedding gallery filled with timeless architecture, waterfront views, and some of Philadelphia’s most iconic scenery.
Fairmount Water Works Permit
A photography permit is required for wedding and engagement sessions at Fairmount Water Works unless your wedding is taking place at the venue. You can find more information and apply for your permit here.
Second Bank of the United States
If you’re drawn to clean architecture and timeless symmetry, the Second Bank is one of Philadelphia’s hidden gems.
Its white marble façade, tall columns, and balanced proportions create portraits that feel sophisticated and understated. The architecture never overwhelms—it simply provides an elegant backdrop.
Combined with nearby Old City streets, it’s a wonderful location for couples looking for a gallery that feels both historic and contemporary.
Photographer’s Perspective
I often pair the Second Bank with the nearby 18th Century Garden because the two locations offer the perfect combination of timeless architecture and lush greenery, all within a short walk of one another.
The Second Bank is also a wonderful choice for first looks, couple portraits, and family formals. Its convenient location in Old City makes it especially easy to incorporate into your wedding day if you’re getting ready at nearby hotels like the Renaissance Philadelphia Downtown Hotel or Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia.
Second National Bank Photography Permit
A photography permit is not required for wedding or engagement sessions with fewer than eight people in total, including the couple, photographer, and videographer. Groups of eight people or more require a special event permit.
You can find more information and apply for a permit here.
South Broad Street
Few locations are more iconic than South Broad Street for wedding portraits in Philadelphia.
With the historic Union League, the Bellevue, and the Avenue of the Arts surrounding you, the view looking north toward Philadelphia City Hall creates one of the city’s most recognizable backdrops. Whether you’re drawn to classic architecture, the energy of the city, or a portrait that instantly feels like Philadelphia, South Broad Street is a timeless choice.
Photographer’s Perspective
If South Broad Street is on your must-have photo list, my favorite place to stop is directly in front of The Union League. From there, you get one of the best unobstructed views of Philadelphia City Hall, creating the classic wedding portrait that has become an icon of the city. It’s a quick stop that delivers some of the most recognizable Philadelphia wedding photographs.
Permit Information
No photography permit is required for portraits on South Broad Street.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
The Philadelphia Museum of Art offers far more than its famous steps.
Its grand architecture, expansive terraces, and sweeping views of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway create portraits with a sense of scale that’s difficult to match elsewhere in the city.
The surrounding grounds also provide quieter corners, allowing couples to enjoy both iconic city views and more intimate moments.
Photographer’s Perspective
Sunset is especially beautiful here, when the warm light softens the stone architecture and gives the entire area a golden glow.
Philadelphia Museum of Art Photography Permit Information
The front steps are open to the public and are not included in the Philadelphia Parks & Recreation photography permit program. While couples commonly take wedding portraits here without a permit, it’s important to keep in mind that this is a popular tourist destination, so larger crowds are common, especially on weekends and during peak travel seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best engagement photo locations in Philadelphia?
Some of my favorites include Merchants’ Exchange, the Rodin Museum, Rittenhouse Square, Fairmount Water Works, and Philadelphia City Hall, each offering a unique atmosphere.
Where should we take wedding portraits after our church ceremony?
That often depends on your ceremony location. For example, the Rodin Museum is a natural choice after a Cathedral Basilica wedding, while Old City landmarks pair beautifully with churches like St. Augustine and Old St. Joseph’s.
Can we visit more than one location?
Absolutely. Many of Philadelphia’s best portrait locations are just minutes apart, making it easy to combine several stops into one portrait session.
Some of my favorite combinations include the Rodin Museum and Philadelphia City Hall, with a quick stop along iconic South Broad Street for the classic City Hall backdrop. In Old City, I often pair the Second Bank of the United States with the 18th Century Garden, or combine the 18th Century Garden with Merchants’ Exchange for couples who want a beautiful mix of lush greenery and timeless architecture.
When is the best time of day for wedding or engagement photos?
For engagement sessions, where we have the flexibility to choose the time, I typically recommend starting about two hours before sunset. The softer light creates beautiful, even tones and is especially flattering for portraits.
For weddings, the portrait timeline is usually built around your ceremony and the rest of your day. Whenever possible, I recommend avoiding the harsh midday summer sun, as it can create strong shadows and bright highlights. If that’s unavoidable, I’ll guide you to locations with open shade or architectural cover to create the most flattering light possible.
