10 of the best engagement and pre-wedding shoot locations in London
London engagement photo shoot locations
10 top engagement photo shoot locations in London
Getting engaged in London? Or maybe you are visiting and want to remember your adventure with a beautiful photo shoot, but have no idea where to start? It’s a big city and the choice can be overwhelming, so I’ve put together this guide with some of my favourite places to shoot around town. I’ve lived in London for over 20 years, and I’m still discovering new hidden gems all the time - it’s a wonderful city to explore. A good place to approach it is to think about what sort of vibe and backdrops you’d like in your photos, and I can then give you some specific ideas for suitable neighbourhoods.
Are you looking for historic building, iconic London landmarks, like Big Ben and St Paul’s Cathedral? Or perhaps something more off the beaten track with some cute cobble-stone streets and urban gardens, or maybe a more edgy industrial feel. There are some really beautiful big parks as well. I usually look for locations that offer a bit of variety so we can take in quite a few different backdrops in one shoot.
South Bank
The busy and bustling South Bank is a fabulous location if you are looking for London landmarks and a really great vibe, especially during the summer months. There are views over the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, the Millennium Wheel and we usually walk past lots of well known buildings like the Shakespeare Globe and Tate Modern as well. Plus it’s quite easy to pop down a few quieter side streets with some cool old brick buildings, colourful backdrops and a fun stroll along the river. There’s even a nice beach if we time your shoot to coincide with low tide.
Westminster, Big Ben etc
I have a favourite route we can walk with great views of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament (avoiding the huge tourist crowds ), Westminster Bridge, lots of other beautiful old historic buildings and a few red phone boxes thrown in too. It can get very busy around this area, but I’ve really enjoyed playing with different angles and view points over the last few years to get the most out of these iconic locations.
London Bridge and Borough Market
Borough Market is a wonderful place to explore. It can be a bit messy and busy, so usually we just embrace the chaos and pick our moments for photos when we can - it’s worth it. It’s also great if you’re feeling a little camera shy, as you looking around the stalls will give you something to do while we take photos. Plus, there are always some quirky spots, and great industrial vibe architecture to be found all around the market.
Small London neighbourhoods
If you don’t fancy iconic landmarks and want a bit more of a subtle London vibe, walking around your favourite London neighbourhood can be a great option. If you currently live in London, you might want to pick your local area, so your photos will always remind you of this time in your life. Or if you are visiting, and you are not sure where to go exactly I can make suggestions.
Pergola and Hill Gardens, Hampstead
I absolutely adore this place. If you are looking for romantic secret garden vibes, this is the place for you. This is a truly magical spot, very peaceful and quiet, especially in the evenings.
St Dunstan in the East
The old church ruins of St Dunstan in the East are a beautiful and peaceful hidden gem amongst the hustle and bustle of the city. It doesn’t quite look like England to me with those thick vines growing up ancient walls. It’s a really unique spot and something you won’t find anywhere else.
St Katherine’s Dock / Wapping High Street & Tower Bridge
I discovered this area a couple of years ago and fell in love with it immediately. This route involves a bit of a walk, so good footwear is a must!. but it’s very rewarding if you want some really unique historic industrial architecture and awesome views of Tower Bridge.
Barbican Centre
If you want something really different, and like a bit of a moody, stark architectural look, the Barbican Centre offers some unique architecture, and is perfect for wide shots, playing with reflections and cool compositions.
Richmond Park
A bit of a trek out of town but definitely worth the journey if you are looking for a wilderness feel with long brown grass, woodlands and lakes. it’s one of my favourite spots for a golden hour nature inspired shoot.
Hampstead Heath
With a similar vibe to Richmond Park, but a little more easily accessible, Hampstead Heath makes a beautiful natural backdrop for your photos, especially just before sunset.
