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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!

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!

Waterfalls make incredible engagement photo backdrops. Here are some of my favorites in Virginia:
Location: Shenandoah National Park
Swim at the base or hike to a natural waterslide
Best for weekday sessions early in the morning
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
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
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
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

Many Virginia state parks offer lakes, rivers, streams, or beach access. Here are my top picks for waterside engagement sessions:
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
Distance: Charlottesville 1 hr 45 min, Richmond 45 min
Freshwater meets saltwater ecosystem
Quiet trails and beaches perfect for intimate sessions
Distance: Charlottesville 2 hr 40 min, Richmond 1 hr 40 min
Over a mile of beaches on Chesapeake Bay
Combines forest and ocean vibes
Distance: Charlottesville 3 hr, Richmond 2 hr
Beach, kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking
WWII concrete ships add unique photo opportunities
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
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
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.
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