The Best Engagement Photo Locations in Upstate South Carolina (Photographer-Approved!)
If you’re newly engaged (!!!) and starting to dream about your engagement photos, you’re in the right place. As a wedding and engagement photographer who has spent years running around Upstate South Carolina with the sweetest couples, I’ve collected a list of my go-to locations that never disappoint.
Whether you want dreamy greenery, waterfalls, editorial city vibes, or a quiet, romantic nook—these are the places I recommend over and over again.
Here are my favorite engagement session locations in Upstate South Carolina, and why I love each of them:
1. Milliken Arboretum (Spartanburg, SC)
If you want wide-open fields, clean green space, and that magical “any direction looks pretty” feeling, Milliken Arboretum is perfect. It’s one of the easiest and most versatile spots I shoot at.
Tons of room to move and run around
A beautiful pond for softer, romantic photos
Great year-round color
This is my go-to for couples who want simple, timeless photos with a natural backdrop.
2. Clemson Botanical Gardens (Clemson, SC)
This location has witnessed so many of my proposals and engagement sessions—it almost feels like home at this point.
Why I love it:
Gorgeous in every single season
Endless paths, bridges, and floral areas
Romantic, quiet spots for intimate moments
It’s perfect for couples who want nature, but also want variety within one location.
3. Issaqueena Falls (Walhalla, SC)
If you’re looking for something that feels grand and a little adventurous, this is your place. I haven’t shot here yet, but I have hiked here multiple times, and I can’t wait for the opportunity to shoot here too!
A stunning, layered waterfall
A short, easy hike (nothing crazy!)
Forested areas that add depth to your gallery
It’s the kind of location that gives you dramatic, scenic shots without requiring a full-day hiking commitment.
4. Downtown Greenville (Greenville, SC)
Sometimes you need a little city energy—and Greenville does not miss.
You can mix:
Falls Park for greenery and the iconic suspension bridge
Downtown streets for editorial, urban shots
The Westin Poinsett or Grand Bohemian Hotel for classy, indoor luxury vibes
This location works for any couple wanting a modern, stylish engagement session with tons of variety.
5. Rock Quarry Garden (Greenville, SC)
This garden feels tucked away, romantic, and intentionally designed for photos.
Water features
Stone bridges
Beautiful landscaping
It’s especially perfect for spring and fall engagements.
6. Hotel Hartness (Greenville, SC)
If you want luxury + nature + clean architecture, Hotel Hartness is such a hidden gem.
A lovely pond
Gorgeous hotel exterior for more formal shots
Quiet, elegant grounds
It’s great for couples wanting an elevated, editorial feel without going downtown.
7. Dolly Cooper Park (Easley, SC)
This one is underrated but SO good.
A river (amazing for playful engagement photos!)
Plenty of green space
Easy access and parking
It gives a cozy, outdoorsy vibe—perfect for couples who want something laid back and sweet.
8. Nettles Park (Clemson, SC)
Simple, open, clean, and always pretty.
Big fields
Trees that photograph beautifully
Easy to walk around
This is such a solid option if you want natural backgrounds without the crowds or complexity of a larger location.
9. Bridgeway Station (Mauldin, SC)
Another one I have been dying to shoot at.
European vibes
Beautiful brick buildings
Feels like it could be right out of a city in a fantasy novel
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Location for Your Engagement Photos
The truth is: the best engagement session locations are the ones that reflect you. Your relationship, your personality, your comfort level, your vibe.
And while I’ll always help guide you to the perfect spot, here’s my biggest tip:
Pick a place where you can relax and be yourselves.
That’s what turns good photos into meaningful ones.
If you’re planning your engagement session in Upstate South Carolina and want help choosing the perfect location, I’d love to create something beautiful with you.
