Capturing Your Love at Longwood Gardens' Stunning Backdrops

Capturing Your Love at Longwood Gardens

As an engaged couple, you want to celebrate this special time in your lives by taking photos that capture your love and excitement. What better place for stunning engagement photos than the lush gardens of Longwood in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania? With over 1,100 acres of gardens, woodlands, meadows, fountains and more, Longwood provides a gorgeous backdrop for your photos.

The History of Longwood Gardens

Longwood Gardens has a long and storied history, originally part of a land grant given to William Penn in the late 17th century. In the mid-1800s, the property was purchased by Quaker industrialist Pierre S. DuPont. He began planting extensive gardens and building greenhouses and conservatories. DuPont later opened the grounds to the public for enjoyment and education. Today Longwood continues this tradition through its ever-changing display of flowers, trees, fountains and special exhibits.

Beautiful Backdrops for Photos

With seventeen outdoor gardens spread over 400 acres, Longwood offers countless breathtaking scenes for your engagement photos. The carefully planned gardens create stunning visual interest and allow for creative photos anywhere you look. Some highlights include:

• The Italian Water Garden with its central fountain and symmetrical pool.
• Peony Garden filled with vibrant peonies in spring.
• Topiary Garden featuring sculpted evergreens in whimsical shapes.
• Rose Arbor smothered in blooms during summer.
• Chimes Tower surrounded by daffodils in early spring.

During fall, the changing leaf colors provide a magnificent palette for photos. The Meadow Garden and nearby woods also offer natural backdrops with grasses, wildflowers and woodland plants.

Spectacular Conservatories

In addition to the outdoor gardens, Longwood's immersive conservatories allow you to take romantic engagement photos inside surrounded by exotic plants. The Conservatory, Exhibition Hall and Orchid House contain palm trees, tropical foliage, orchids, fountains and more. For intimate photos, find a quiet corner in the Children's Garden or Tropical Terrace. The Victorian Greenhouse with its soaring architecture is ideal for dramatic photos.

Fountains and Flowers Galore

Few things say "romance" better than photos with fountains or flowers! Fortunately, Longwood has an abundance of both. The Italian Water Garden's fountains range from simple sprays to the grand Oasis Fountain. For impressive shots, pose by the Sea Fountain with water jetting high into the air. The outdoor Waterlily Court features fountains, pools and waterlilies for a soothing scene.

You'll also find flowers in every shape, size and color at Longwood. Some spots not to miss include the expansive Rose Garden, Peony Garden, Flower Garden Walk and Idea Garden. Take portraits among vibrant blooms or steal a kiss in an enchanting floral setting.

Photographic Permits

To take professional photos at Longwood Gardens, you'll need a Photographic Permit. Permits are limited, so reserve yours well in advance of your engagement photo session. The permit provides access anytime during public garden hours. There are several permit levels based on the size of your group and time length. Visit the Longwood Gardens website for details on reserving your photo permit.

Plan Ahead for Your Shoot

To make the most of your special time at Longwood, carefully plan your engagement photo session:

• Reserve your Photographic Permit early.
• Schedule your session during peak bloom seasons for flowers.
• Arrive early in the day when crowds are smaller.
• Scout locations in advance and make a shot list.
• Wear attire and makeup suitable for photos.
• Allow plenty of time to utilize multiple garden areas.

With 1,077 acres to explore, Longwood Gardens is a dream location for memorable engagement photos. Let your passion bloom by taking romantic, one-of-a-kind pictures together in these stunning gardens.

Tips for Great Photos at Longwood Gardens

You have your Longwood Gardens photo permit, date secured, and are ready for your engagement shoot. To make the most of this gorgeous setting, keep these photography tips in mind:

Focus on Flattering Light

Outdoor light is often best in the early morning or late afternoon when sunlight is soft and diffused. Midday light can be harsh and create deep shadows on faces. If possible, schedule your session during the ideal "golden hours" of morning and evening light.

Maximize Flower Blooms

Certain gardens and flowers look their best during specific seasons. The Rose Garden, Peony Garden and waterlily fountains shine in early summer. For fall color, photograph in the Arboretum or Meadow Garden. Visit Longwood's website to see bloom schedules and plan accordingly.

Shoot Wide and Tight

Capture both expansive shots showcasing the gardens along with close-up portraits. Wide shots of flower beds or fountain gardens will show context, while tight shots of you as a couple will pull the viewer's eye. Shoot a variety to tell the full story.

Scout and Plan Shots

Explore the gardens in advance to curate your shot list. Note when gardens are in bloom or where fountains are operating. Plan to visit multiple spots for variety. Longwood is huge, so have a strategy for efficient moves between locations.

Try Creative Compositions

Take both traditional and creative angles for visual interest. Shoot straight-on portraits, but also place subjects along diagonals. Frame subjects behind flowers or in doorways. Utilize symmetry from fountain and garden designs. Play with light and shadows.

Pack Props and Accessories

Small props and accessories can add extra romance and personality. Bring items that represent your interests or story. Florals, picnic blankets, umbrellas, and balloons make great accents. Just verify any props are allowed when you obtain your permit.

At the exquisite Longwood Gardens, you have an opportunity for truly special engagement photos. Follow these tips for maximizing the beauty and romance during your photographic session.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best times of day for photos at Longwood Gardens?

The best lighting is often early in the morning or later afternoon when the sunlight is soft and diffused. Midday sun can be harsh and create unwelcome shadows. Aim for the "golden hours" right after sunrise or right before sunset for ideal illumination.

What times of year are best for engagement photos at Longwood?

Late spring and early summer allow you to capture many blooming flowers and fountains in operation. Late fall has beautiful autumn foliage. Check the Longwood bloom calendar and schedule your session during peak times for your favorite gardens.

How far in advance should I book my photo permit?

Photographic permits can book up months in advance, especially for peak times like spring blooms. Reserve your permit as soon as you have your date confirmed, ideally 3-6 months ahead of time. Permits are released on the 1st of each month for sessions 4 months later.

Are there any restrictions on what we photograph at Longwood Gardens?

Your permit will outline any specific restrictions, but in general you have access to photograph throughout the outdoor gardens and conservatories. Some exceptions are special exhibits which require additional permissions. Avoid picking flowers or damaging plants when posing.

Where are the best spots inside for engagement photos?

The Conservatory, Exhibition Hall and Orchid House provide beautiful indoor settings. Highlights include the Tropical Terrace, Victorian Greenhouse, Silver Garden and Children's Adventure Garden. Scout your locations in advance for photography plans.

What style of attire works best for photos at Longwood Gardens?

For women, consider dresses that highlight the garden surroundings. Avoid overly complicated dresses that will detract from the natural scenery. For men, suits or button-up shirts paired with slacks or khakis make timeless looks. Neutral colors showcase the vibrant flowers and greenery.

What special props or accessories are nice to have during a Longwood Gardens photo shoot?

Small props add interest to your photos. Some ideas are flower crowns, signs, ribbons, rings or boxes, parasols, picnic props, or string lights. Verify which props are allowed when you book your permit. Keep them minimal so the gardens remain the star.

How can we incorporate our interests into the Longwood Gardens photo session?

Think of hobbies, activities and other passions you share as a couple. If you love to read, bring books as props. For travel lovers, suitcases can accentuate shots. Picnic supplies work nicely for foodie couples. Get creative brainstorming ideas that represent your relationship.

How many locations within Longwood Gardens should we plan to photograph at?

Longwood's immense size allows you to capture a wide variety of scenes. Minimally plan to shoot at 3-4 locations to provide diversity during your session. Excellent spots to visit are the Italian Water Garden, Peony Garden, Meadow Garden and Chimes Tower.

FAQs

How can we incorporate pets into our Longwood Gardens engagement photos?

If you have a beloved pet you want to include, verify with Longwood that pet photos are allowed when booking your permit. Consider their temperament and if they will remain calm. Have a friend or assistant on hand to help manage the pet during photos. Choose gardens with grass or shade to keep them comfortable.

What amenities are nearby Longwood Gardens for our engagement photo session?

The town of Kennett Square offers restaurants, cafes and hotels if your shoot takes place over several hours or days. The Inn at Longwood offers upscale dining and accommodations on site. There are also restrooms, a cafeteria and gift shops within Longwood Gardens.

How much walking is required during a Longwood photo session?

Longwood Gardens' immense size means you'll be on your feet for extended periods walking between locations. Wear comfortable shoes and plan time to rest and hydrate. Utilize the tram system if needing to limit walking distances for any guests.

Should we bring a change of clothes for our Longwood engagement shoot?

It's a great idea to pack 1-2 outfit changes to vary your looks. Consider dresses, jacket additions, accessories etc. This avoids shooting in the same outfit the entire session and provides more variety.

Can we schedule our session in the evening at sunset?

Longwood's general hours are 10am to 5pm, so later sessions at sunset are not available. You can still capture beautiful light during the golden hours in the mornings and later afternoons. Extending your permit provides more time to shoot during ideal lighting.