As a wedding photographer, I have the pleasure of traveling all over the state for my couples and scouting new locations for my clients. While I love finding new spots and visiting new cities, Gainesville is home and has some gorgeous locations I don’t always see in other parts of Florida. Don’t feel like if you live in a small(er) town that you have to travel to a bigger city for a beautiful location. Whether you’re looking for an engagement session, celebrating your anniversary, or taking photos just because, here are some of the best (my favorite) locations in Gainesville and North Florida for photos with your honey.

1. The Hippodrome

Let’s start with an elevated look. The Hippodrome offers beautiful, muted architecture with its incredibly tall pillars, nestled right in Downtown Gainesville. Couples love to dress up and wear date night attire, then head to one of the many upscale restaurants within walking distance for date night, like Mark’s Prime or Dragonfly.

2. Downtown Rooftop

I know this one might sound odd but hear me out. Driving to the top floor of a rooftop for your engagement shoot gives intimate, romantic vibes plus it’s really private. There are numerous parking garage rooftops in Gainesville, and I can help you find the perfect one for you. The sunset this high up is stunning and creates lots of sun rays in your photos for a dreamy effect.

3. Lake Alice at The Baughman Center

Before moving to Gainesville, I had never seen a building like the Baughman Center in real life. The unique shape and tall windows make it a popular wedding venue. Every time I shoot a wedding there, it takes my breath away. Once you walk outside, you are on the shore of Lake Alice. This location is a great spot for some elevated photos in front of the Baughman Center’s unique entrance, intimate moments on the bridge, and then you can get cozy on a picnic blanket near the lake as the sun sets.

4. Payne’s Prairie

Payne’s Prairie, which overlooks Lake Wauberg, is another gorgeous location for photos with a mix of greenery and water. Just a short walk from the parking lot you can start the trail, where you’re met with overarching trees, tall grasses and the sun peeking through the treetops at sunset. The entrance to Payne’s Prairie is in Micanopy, just a short drive down 441, south of Gainesville.

5. Ravine Gardens State Park (Palatka, Florida)

Ravine Gardens State Park is a hidden gem that I didn’t find out about until a few years into my photography career. It’s about 1 hour East of Gainesville in the city of Palatka. Ravine Gardens has some really cool features like a winding cement staircase leading to the trails, a circular garden and my favorite, a wooden suspension bridge.

6. Sweetwater Wetlands Park

Sweetwater Wetlands Park has stunning wide open views and lush grasses. The sunset here is so dreamy and the background is really simple, so the focus is always on you. This location is perfect for a more laidback vibe. If you’re dressing up, bring an extra pair of flats if you plan on wearing heels so you can stay comfortable.

7. The Historic Thomas center

The Historic Thomas Center offers the best of both worlds if you’re into greenery and architecture. There are numerous trees on the property with well-kept gardens, and one Oak Tree in particular is known for its low hanging branches that touch the floor and flowy Spanish moss. The Mediterranean Revival-style buildings offer the perfect contrast to the gardens, which makes this a popular location for engagement photos and weddings.

8. Local Wildflower Field

One of my favorite spots that blooms in the Spring/early Summer is a private wildlfower field in Alachua. The blooms usually end in late May/early June and make for the dreamiest photos at sunset.

9. St. Augustine Beach

We can’t be in Florida without mentioning the beach. I absolutely LOVE St. Augustine for my couples. Not only do we have the beach (duh), but St. Augustine in general is the oldest town in Florida and has so much rich history and stunning architecture. Plan a session for the beach and if architecture is your thing, you can get dressed up for some shots at one of the Forts or other historic sites.