5 Best Wedding Photo Locations in Upstate New York

Washington Park, located in Albany, Upstate New York, is a stunning 81-acre park that offers an exceptional setting for wedding photography. Designed in the late 19th century by the famous landscape architects Calvert Vaux and Frederick Olmsted, the park boasts over 100 species of trees, from elegant bonsais to majestic oaks, providing a rich and vibrant natural backdrop. A charming 5.2-acre lake sits in the southwestern corner, adding to the park’s scenic beauty. Recognized as one of the nation’s 100 most important parks by the American Association of Architects, Washington Park’s historic charm and diverse landscapes make it an ideal choice for couples seeking to capture timeless wedding photos in Upstate New York.

Address: Albany, NY

Located in Binghamton, Upstate New York, Cutler Botanic Garden provides a picturesque environment for wedding photography. This beautiful garden features 14 themed areas, including a Shade Garden, Native Habitats, and a Hydrangea collection, all designed to highlight the beauty of nature. Recent additions, such as a newly designed water feature, a wildflower meadow, and a hardscape labyrinth, enhance the garden’s charm. As one of only 360 display gardens recognized by All-America Selections in the United States, Cutler Botanic Garden is a testament to horticultural excellence. The gazebo, framed by Simplicity rose bushes and flower-lined walkways, offers a timeless and elegant spot for capturing unforgettable wedding photos in Upstate New York.

Address: 840 Front St, Binghamton, NY 13905

Perched along the Helderberg Escarpment, John Boyd Thatcher State Park in Upstate New York presents a breathtaking canvas for wedding photography. This park boasts dramatic limestone cliffs, rugged rock-strewn slopes, and expansive views of the Hudson-Mohawk Valleys and surrounding mountains. Its diverse landscapes include open fields, woodlands, and the renowned Indian Ladder Trail. Whether capturing serene moments among the trees or sweeping panoramas, the park’s natural beauty provides a stunning backdrop for couples looking to preserve their special day. John Boyd Thatcher State Park is an ideal choice for those seeking to blend their wedding memories with the splendor of Upstate New York’s landscapes.

Address: 830 Thacher Pk Rd, Voorheesville, NY 12186

Rochester’s Highland Park offers a truly magical environment for wedding photography. This meticulously designed arboretum showcases over 500 varieties of flowering shrubs, including 1,200 lilacs, a striking collection of Japanese Maples, and 35 types of magnolias. The park’s centerpiece is its vibrant pansy bed, featuring 10,000 plants arranged in intricate patterns that change each year. Additional attractions like the historic Warner Castle, the Lamberton Conservatory, and the Arches Pavilion add a touch of charm and elegance. Whether couples are drawn to its lush greenery, colorful floral displays, or historic elements, Highland Park provides a picturesque and memorable setting for capturing their special day in Upstate New York.

Address: 180 Reservoir Ave, Rochester, NY 14620

Nestled on the eastern edge of Lake Erie, Woodlawn Beach State Park in Buffalo, Upstate New York, delivers a stunning environment for wedding photography. This park features a mile-long natural sand beach known for its breathtaking panoramic views and spectacular sunsets. Renowned for its freshwater sand dunes and diverse wildlife habitats, it also includes an interpretive nature boardwalk that guides visitors through lush wooded wetlands to the beach. Once a bustling resort, Woodlawn Beach merges historical charm with natural beauty, making it an exceptional choice for couples looking to capture their special day amidst picturesque scenery.

Address: 3580 Lake Shore Rd, Blasdell, NY 14219