Best Places for Engagement Photos in Oregon – Stunning & Unique Locations
The Most Breathtaking Engagement Photo Locations in Oregon
Oregon is filled with diverse landscapes, making it the perfect place for engagement photos—whether you want rugged cliffs, misty waterfalls, dreamy forests, or golden desert landscapes. This guide will help you choose the best Oregon engagement photo locations that fit your love story. From the dramatic Oregon Coast to the stunning Columbia River Gorge, alpine lakes near Mt. Hood, and the unique Painted Hills, these are some of the best spots for engagement photography in the Pacific Northwest! Pro Tip: Want engagement photos that feel like a true adventure? Pick a location that means something special to you both, and I’ll help you craft an unforgettable experience!
— These locations also work for Elopement ideas —
The Best Oregon Engagement Photo Locations by Region
THE COAST // CENTRAL OREGON + DESERT // GORGE + MOUNTAINS
I. Oregon Coast Engagement Photo Locations
Oregon’s coastline is one of the most stunning places for engagement photos, offering a mix of rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, towering sea stacks, and hidden coves. Whether you’re looking for moody coastal vibes, dramatic backdrops, or soft golden dunes, here are some of the best engagement photo locations along the Oregon Coast.
Why it’s perfect for engagement photos: A stunning mix of golden sand dunes, rugged cliffs, and sea stacks makes this one of the most versatile coastal locations for engagement sessions
Best time of year: Spring & Fall for fewer crowds, Summer for dreamy golden light
See an engagement session here
From Portland: about 2 hours
CANNON BEACH - Haystack Rock and Surrounding Area
Why it’s perfect for engagement photos: One of Oregon’s most iconic coastal spots, with the famous Haystack Rock as the backdrop. I also know a few less crowded locations in the surrounding area!
Best time of year: Year-round (best in Spring & Summer).
See an engagement session here
From Portland: 1.5 hours
Why it’s perfect: Hug Point has a small waterfall that cascades onto the beach, warm-toned rock formations, and stunning coastal cliffs. It’s a hidden gem with intimate and secluded spots perfect for a more private engagement session.
Best time of year: Spring, Summer & Fall (must time it with low tide to access the Hug Point waterfall).
See an engagement session here
See an elopement here
From Portland: 1 h 45 mins
Why it’s perfect: This spot offers multiple locations for engagement photos, including blufftop views, Indian Beach’s rocky shoreline, and secluded forested trails. The mix of trees, ocean views, and open beaches makes this a versatile location for any couple.
Best time of year: Year-round (best in Spring & Fall for soft lighting and fewer visitors).
See an engagement session here
From Portland: around 1.5 hours
Note: You’ll need a State Park Pass for entry.
Why it’s perfect: The Oregon Dunes offer a vast, open landscape of rolling sand hills, coastal grasses, and golden light. This location is ideal for dramatic, minimalist, and ethereal engagement photos.
Best time of year: Spring, Summer & Fall (avoid very windy days).
see an engagement session here
From Portland: 3+ hours
SAMUEL H. BOARDMAN STATE SCENIC CORRIDOR
Why it’s perfect: This stretch of the Southern Oregon Coast is known for its rugged cliffs, craggy sea stacks, and secret beaches. Boardman State Park is one of the most dramatic coastal locations in the Pacific Northwest—perfect for adventurous couples who want epic engagement photos.
Best time of year: Spring & Fall for ideal weather and fewer tourists.
See an engagement session here
See an elopement here
From Portland: 5+ hours
Why it’s perfect: This hidden gem features steep cliffs, secluded coves, and dramatic ocean views. The cliffs make for a stunning, cinematic backdrop with golden light at sunrise or sunset.
Best time of year: Year-round (best at sunrise or sunset).
Vibe: Adventurous, bold, and dramatic.
Note: There’s a minimum 5-minute walk-in to reach the best views.
From Portland: about 2 hours
Why it’s perfect: Lots of hidden gems along the Oregon Coast, one in particular offers secluded rocky outcroppings, panoramic ocean views, and rugged cliffs. Unlike busier coastal spots, it’s much quieter, making it perfect for an intimate and peaceful engagement session.
Best time of year: Spring & Fall for moody skies; Summer for golden-hour glow.
Vibe: Secluded, dramatic, and peaceful.
See an elopement here
From Portland: ~2 hours
SHORT SANDS BEACH - OSWALD WEST STATE PARK
Why it’s perfect: Nestled in a lush, mossy forest, Short Sands Beach offers a stunning mix of towering trees, dramatic cliffs, and a wide, open sandy shoreline. The short hike to the beach adds an adventurous feel and keeps it slightly more secluded than other nearby beaches. This location is ideal for couples who love both the ocean and forest vibes.
Best time of year: Spring, Summer & Fall (can be foggy in winter).
Vibe: Romantic, wild, and adventurous.
See an engagement session here
From Portland: ~1.5 hours
II. Central Oregon + Desert Engagement Photo Locations
Oregon’s high desert is breathtaking, dramatic, and full of diverse landscapes. From towering cliffs to painted hills and vast deserts, these locations provide stunning and unique backdrops for adventurous engagement sessions.
Why it’s perfect: One of Oregon’s most famous landscapes, featuring towering rock formations, deep canyons, and lush riverbanks. It’s perfect for both engagement sessions and elopements.
Best time of year: Spring & Fall (Summer can be extremely hot).
Vibe: Dramatic, adventurous, and iconic.
From Portland: ~3 hours
SCENIC SPOTS ALONG HIGHWAY 22/20
Why it’s perfect: This entire stretch from Portland to Sisters, OR is filled with diverse backdrops—snow-capped mountains, dense forests, reflective lakes, and open meadows.
Best time of year: Year-round (varies by elevation).
Vibe: Adventurous, diverse, and ever-changing.
From Portland: 1-3 hours, depending on the stop.
Why it’s perfect: A groomed yet natural space with walking paths, dry forests, wild meadows, and stunning lake views.
Best time of year: Spring through Fall.
Vibe: Rustic, charming, and private.
From Portland: ~2.5 hours
Why it’s perfect: This otherworldly landscape features rolling hills of vibrant red, orange, and yellow hues. The colors glow at sunset, making this a truly magical engagement session location.
Best time of year: Spring & Fall (Summer can be very hot).
Vibe: Surreal, vibrant, and cinematic.
From Portland: ~4+ hours
Why it’s perfect: This area is tucked away with rugged, blue-toned rock formations, creating a moody, intimate, and striking backdrop.
Best time of year: Spring & Fall.
Vibe: Mysterious, remote, and wild.
From Portland: ~4+ hours
Why it’s perfect: A vast lava field with jagged volcanic rocks, creating a raw and rugged setting. Sunset adds an epic glow against the dark landscape.
Best time of year: Spring, Summer, & Fall.
Vibe: Dramatic, edgy, and adventurous.
From Portland: ~3.5 hours
Why it’s perfect: A massive lake surrounded by warm-toned rock cliffs. While it’s not super private, it offers stunning views and unique landscapes.
Best time of year: Late Spring through Fall.
Vibe: Expansive, bold, and scenic.
From Portland: ~3 hours
Why it’s perfect: A flat, white salt-like desert with the stunning Steen Mountains in the distance. It’s perfect for creative and wide-open engagement shots.
Best time of year: Fall & Spring (Summer gets extremely hot).
Vibe: Minimalist, dreamlike, and surreal.
From Portland: ~7+ hours
Why it’s perfect: Deep canyons, dry rugged terrain, and warm desert tones make this an epic and secluded engagement session spot.
Best time of year: Spring & Fall.
Vibe: Remote, dramatic, and adventurous.
From Portland: ~6+ hours
Why it’s perfect: A breathtaking desert location featuring jagged cliffs and warm rock formations for a bold and cinematic engagement session.
Best time of year: Spring & Fall.
Vibe: Rugged, intimate, and striking.
From Portland: ~1 hour 45 minutes
Why it’s perfect: A hidden gem in Eastern Oregon featuring towering honeycomb rock formations, deep canyons, and dramatic desert landscapes. The warm, golden cliffs make it a stunning spot for an engagement session.
Best time of year: Spring & Fall (Summer can be extremely hot, and winter can bring unpredictable road conditions).
Vibe: Wild, remote, and jaw-droppingly beautiful.
From Portland: ~6 hours
III. Best Mountain & Gorge Engagement Photo Locations
Oregon’s mountain ranges and the Columbia River Gorge offer jaw-dropping scenery for engagement sessions. Whether you want majestic peaks, cascading waterfalls, or golden cliffs, these locations provide epic backdrops for your photos.
Why it’s perfect: A glass-like lake reflecting Mt. Hood—one of Oregon’s most iconic views.
Best time of year: Summer for calm water reflections, Fall for stunning golden colors.
Vibe: Romantic, serene, and classic Oregon.
From Portland: ~1.5 hours
Why it’s perfect: Rolling hills, wildflowers (in Spring), and sweeping views of the Columbia River Gorge. One of the most easily accessible stunning overlooks in Oregon.
Best time of year: Spring for wildflowers, Fall for golden hills.
Vibe: Dramatic, golden, and timeless.
From Portland: ~1.5 hours
Why it’s perfect: A massive waterfall surrounded by vibrant green cliffs. The short hike makes it an easy yet dramatic location.
Best time of year: Year-round, but expect mist!
Vibe: Moody, lush, and adventurous.
From Portland: ~50 minutes
Why it’s perfect: A hidden waterfall surrounded by dramatic hexagonal basalt columns. One of Oregon’s most unique and secluded falls.
Best time of year: Spring & Summer for best water flow.
Vibe: Epic, private, and mystical.
From Portland: ~1.5 hours
Why it’s perfect: A quaint mountain town at the base of Mt. Hood, ideal for winter wonderland engagement sessions.
Best time of year: Winter for snow, Summer for alpine scenery.
Vibe: Cozy, adventurous, and magical.
From Portland: ~1.5 hours
Why it’s perfect: A stunning historic building perched on a cliffside overlook of the Columbia River Gorge.
Best time of year: Year-round, best at sunrise or sunset.
Vibe: Elegant, dramatic, and cinematic.
From Portland: ~45 minutes
Why it’s perfect: An iconic ski lodge with sweeping mountain views, great for snowy engagement sessions.
Best time of year: Winter for snow, Summer for high alpine views.
Vibe: Rustic, cozy, and epic.
From Portland: ~1.5 hours
Why it’s perfect: A rugged peninsula near Cascade Locks with dramatic cliffs, wild landscapes, and an intimate, off-the-beaten-path feel.
Best time of year: Spring & Fall for fewer crowds.
Vibe: Adventurous, moody, and private.
From Portland: ~1 hour
See two sessions — Elopement // Engagement Session
Why it’s perfect: A secluded alpine lake surrounded by lush forests. This spot feels wild and untouched.
Best time of year: Late Spring through Fall for best lake conditions.
Vibe: Serene, adventurous, and remote.
From Portland: ~3 hours
Why it’s perfect: A hidden gem with a perfect mirror reflection of Mt. Hood on calm days. Less crowded than Trillium Lake, making it ideal for an intimate engagement session.
Best time of year: Summer for reflections, Fall for crisp air and golden tones.
Vibe: Romantic, peaceful, and classic Pacific Northwest.
From Portland: ~2.5 hours
Why it’s perfect: A stunning waterfall tucked into a mossy canyon, with a dramatic overhanging rock wall that makes for breathtaking engagement photos.
Best time of year: Spring for powerful water flow, Fall for golden foliage.
Vibe: Moody, adventurous, and secluded.
From Portland: ~1.5 hours
Why it’s perfect: A short, easy hike leading to a two-tiered waterfall in a gorgeous fern-filled canyon. The waterfall mist creates a magical, ethereal feel.
Best time of year: Spring & early Summer for the most dramatic water flow.
Vibe: Lush, whimsical, and fairy-tale-like.
From Portland: ~45 minutes
Prefer an Urban Backdrop for Your Engagement Photos?
If the energy of the city speaks to you more than mountains or waterfalls, a downtown Portland engagement session might be the perfect fit! From charming historic streets to modern cityscapes, Portland offers a variety of stunning urban locations. Want recommendations for the best spots? Send me a message, and I’ll help you find the perfect city setting for your engagement photos!
Let’s Plan Your Perfect Engagement Session!
Whether you're drawn to Oregon’s rugged coastline, dramatic mountain peaks, serene forests, or vibrant city streets, your engagement photos should reflect your unique love story. I’m here to help you choose the perfect location, plan the details, and create an experience that feels natural, fun, and unforgettable.
If you're ready to start planning—or need help narrowing down the best spot—reach out below! Let’s make some magic together! Fill out the short form below, and I’ll be in touch soon!
Meet Your Engagement Photographer
Hi, I’m Corrie!
I’m passionate about exploring Oregon’s most breathtaking landscapes and helping couples find the perfect backdrop for their engagement photos. From hidden coastal coves to epic mountain vistas, I’ve spent years discovering the best spots—and I can't wait to share them with you! Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled session or a cozy, intimate setting, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s create something unforgettable together!
