Virginia is known for its stunning vistas in places like Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Mountains. But the state also offers lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and coastal shorelines—perfect for couples who want engagement photos on or near the water.

I’m Kara, a Virginia wedding and engagement photographer with nearly a decade of experience capturing couples in natural, authentic moments. I’ve photographed sessions from mountaintops to waterfalls, lakes, and ocean beaches. When you work with me, you’re not just hiring a photographer—you’re getting a guide who knows the best locations, the perfect light, and how to make your session feel effortless and fun. If you’re dreaming of a waterside engagement session, I want to help you create it. Reach out today to plan your session!

Engagement Session Ideas on the Water

Your session can be simple or adventurous. Some fun ideas for waterside engagement photos include:

• Go fishing together

• Canoe or kayak down a river

• Stroll along a boardwalk or waterside path in elegant outfits

• Go tubing in the summer or stop at a rope swing for some playful moments

• Have a picnic on the beach

• Paddleboarding together

• Rent a pontoon boat and enjoy drinks on the water

• Sail on the Chesapeake Bay

Engagement photos can capture your relationship authentically—whether it’s walking hand-in-hand in a dress and nice slacks, or splashing and playing in the water. There are no rules!

Waterfall Engagement Locations

Waterfalls make incredible engagement photo backdrops. Here are some of my favorites in Virginia:

White Oak

• Location: Shenandoah National Park

• Swim at the base or hike to a natural waterslide

• Best for weekday sessions early in the morning

Dark Hollow

• Shortest hike on this list, about 0.7 miles to the falls

• Very popular, so weekdays are best for privacy

• Option to take a slower fire road route

Cascade Falls

• Near Blacksburg, VA, in Pembroke

• Moderate 2-mile hike (4 miles roundtrip)

• Swimming at the base possible in summer

• Multiple viewing platforms for photos and picnics

St. Mary’s Falls

• 4.3-mile roundtrip hike

• Best for summer due to river crossings and variable water levels

• Less crowded and perfect for a “hidden gem” feel

Crabtree Falls

• Highest vertical drop east of the Mississippi River

• No swimming at the base, but wading in the Tye River nearby is possible

• Popular, best on weekdays early morning

• Summit view provides a dramatic backdrop for photos

State Parks with Water Access

Many Virginia state parks offer lakes, rivers, streams, or beach access. Here are my top picks for waterside engagement sessions:

Smith Mountain Lake State Park

• Distance: Charlottesville 2 hr 20 min, Roanoke 50 min

• Ideal for pontoon boats, jet skis, or beach photos

• Over 550 miles of shoreline for photos and adventure

York River State Park

• Distance: Charlottesville 1 hr 45 min, Richmond 45 min

• Freshwater meets saltwater ecosystem

• Quiet trails and beaches perfect for intimate sessions

First Landing State Park

• Distance: Charlottesville 2 hr 40 min, Richmond 1 hr 40 min

• Over a mile of beaches on Chesapeake Bay

• Combines forest and ocean vibes

Kiptopeke State Park

• Distance: Charlottesville 3 hr, Richmond 2 hr

• Beach, kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking

• WWII concrete ships add unique photo opportunities

Hungry Mother State Park

• Distance: Charlottesville 3 hr 40 min, Roanoke 2 hr

• Iconic bridge, lake, and Molly’s Knob hike

• Perfect for combining mountain and water photos in one session

Alexandria Waterfront

• Easy access for Northern Virginia/DC couples

• Walk, bike, or rent a boat along the Potomac River

• Mount Vernon Trail and parks along the shoreline offer endless photo spots

Planning Your Waterside Engagement Session

This list is just a starting point! Virginia also has Sherando Lake, Pandapas Pond, Hone Quarry, Lake Arrowhead, South River of the Shenandoah, and many more. Even Maryland, DC, and West Virginia have beautiful options.

When you book an engagement session with me, I send a pre-session questionnaire. Based on your answers, I create custom location suggestions tailored to your style, distance, and vibe. Want a waterfall session within a few hours of DC? Or a lake session with a pontoon boat? I make it happen.

Ready to plan your Virginia waterside engagement session? Reach out today and let’s find the perfect location and create photos you’ll treasure forever.