Big Meadows Engagement Photos in Shenandoah National Park

Big Meadows in Shenandoah National Park is one of the best spots in Virginia for meadow engagement photos with soft mountain backdrops. Its wide-open fields, natural flora, and rolling hills make it a dreamy location for couples who want sunrise or sunset portraits in a peaceful setting. The only comparable public spot is Sky Meadows State Park, though Big Meadows has a unique charm in the heart of the Central District of Shenandoah National Park.

I’m Kara, a Virginia wedding and engagement photographer with nearly a decade of experience capturing couples in Shenandoah, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and beyond. I know how to find private spots in popular parks, work with natural light, and guide couples into authentic, effortless poses. When you work with me, you’re not just hiring a photographer—you’re gaining someone who knows the best time of day, the best angles, and how to make your session feel natural and fun. If Big Meadows is on your list, I want to help you create a session you’ll remember forever. Reach out today to book your engagement session!

How to Access Big Meadows

Big Meadows is located in the central part of Shenandoah National Park. You can enter the park via:

• Thornton Gap Entrance Station
• Swift Run Entrance Station

Because the meadows are so large, you can easily find spots away from other visitors, unlike overlooks or summit hikes.

Best Time for Engagement Photos

• Sunrise: Soft light, quiet, and peaceful. Great if privacy is your top priority.
• Sunset: Perfect for glowing light behind the mountains. Ideal for romantic portraits.

Tips for Your Meadow Session

• Stay on the walking paths to protect natural flora and fauna.
• Big Meadows provides beautiful meadow views, but it doesn’t offer the epic mountain vistas you might imagine from Shenandoah.
• For meadows with dramatic mountain backdrops, check out Cole Mountain near Lexington.

Big Meadows is perfect for couples who want open, serene landscapes and natural light portraits.

All of the photos in this blog are from a real engagement session at Big Meadows. They showcase authentic moments, natural light, and the beautiful meadow and mountain scenery that make this location so special. These images are a true example of what you can expect when you work with me for your own engagement session—carefully planned, fun, and full of memories you’ll treasure forever.

Ready to capture your love in Virginia’s iconic meadows? Reach out now and let’s plan your engagement session!