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If you’re thinking about doing engagement photos at the Arnold Arboretum, let me just say: do it! It’s one of my favorite places to photograph in Boston. It’s spacious, it’s peaceful, and you get all the nature vibes without leaving the city. There’s plenty of space to wander, and it’s never as packed as the Public Garden or Boston Common. Every time I shoot here, the photos feel different, which is kind of perfect for something as personal as an engagement session.
Meeting Rebecca and Chris (Kind of Again)
When Rebecca and Chris reached out about engagement photos and said they wanted to do them at the Arnold Arboretum, I was pumped. But when we met up that day, I had this weird feeling that I’d met Chris before. I didn’t say anything at first, because I couldn’t place it. Then partway through the session, we were talking about their wedding party and it clicked—Chris was the best man at Beth and Matt’s wedding I photographed a couple years ago at the Lyman Estate. Mystery solved.
I felt a little silly for not realizing it sooner, but it honestly made me even more excited for their wedding. Beth and Matt are going to be in the wedding party again, and I love getting to see past couples at new weddings. Also wild that their two-year anniversary is right around the corner.
Why I Love Arnold Arboretum for Boston Engagement Photos
Back to the session. The Arnold Arboretum is one of those places where everything feels easy. There’s no dodging tourists, no waiting around for people to move out of your shot, and you don’t have to walk far to get a variety of backgrounds. Whether we’re in the open fields, near the lilac bushes, or tucked into a quiet trail, it always works.
Plus, because it’s a big space, couples tend to feel more relaxed right away. No crowds staring at you. Just trees, open sky, and some space to breathe.
They Warmed Up Fast
Like most couples, Rebecca and Chris started out a little unsure in front of the camera. Totally normal. Nobody knows what to do with their hands right away. But after a few test shots, some joking around, and a little walking and talking, they got into the rhythm of it. Once they loosened up, it was fun just watching them be themselves. That’s kind of the sweet spot for engagement sessions. Once the nerves wear off, you stop worrying about the camera and just focus on each other. And that’s when the good stuff happens.
A Session That Felt Like Them
One of my favorite things about this engagement session is how much their personalities came through in the photos. It wasn’t overly posed or perfect. Just real moments between two people who clearly have fun together.
Their wedding is coming up soon, and after this session, I’m even more excited for it. If this was the warm-up, the wedding day is going to be awesome.
If you’re thinking about doing a Boston engagement session, especially at the Arnold Arboretum, I say go for it. It’s one of those spots where there’s always something new, and it never feels crowded or stressful. And if you’re still looking for a wedding photographer, feel free to check out more engagement sessions and weddings or get in touch to see if your date is still open.
Also, check out Rebecca and Chris’ Nashoba Valley Winery wedding in Bolton, MA.
