If you’re thinking about taking Green Spring Gardens photos for your engagement session, let me just say – you won’t regret it. This place is truly one of my favorite garden venues in Northern Virginia. I’ve shot there so many times and it somehow still surprises me with how beautiful it is. Hannah and Peter felt the same way, especially when they realized it would be peony season! The park was in bloom and it made for the dreamiest setting for their session.

Looking for more about Green Spring Gardens? We have a location spotlight all about it here!

A Blind Date That Actually Worked

Hannah and Peter’s love story started with a blind date – yes, really! A coworker set them up, and clearly they were on to something because these two are such a perfect fit. I’ve been seeing more and more couples who met through mutual friends or blind dates lately. And honestly, I love it! There’s something really sweet about trusting the people who know you best to help you find your person.

From the moment I met them, I could tell Hannah and Peter were going to be easy to photograph. They’re relaxed, full of joy, and just really fun to be around. They knew they wanted a golden hour session for that soft, glowy light. And Green Spring Gardens totally delivered! The sun reflecting off the pond at the beginning of our session was so vibrant yet flattering. And later on, the way the light filtered through the trees by the historic house made everything feel extra romantic and golden.

Green Spring Gardens Photos

Out of all the garden venues in Northern Virginia, Green Spring Gardens has a special place in my heart. It’s beautiful without being overly manicured, and peaceful yet still full of color. Plus, there’s such a variety of spots to use. You’ve got open fields, shaded paths, blooming flowers, and that sweet little historic house that adds so much charm. It’s a great place for couples who want something pretty and natural that still feels elevated.

Hannah and Peter totally leaned into the fun of it all – laughing through prompts, dancing on stone walkways, and just enjoying each other. When couples are up for a little movement and a lot of connection, that’s when the magic happens in photos.

Looking Ahead

These two are tying the knot this summer at St. Peter and Paul Antiochian Orthodox Church in Potomac, Maryland. I already know it’s going to be such a meaningful, joyful day. Their engagement session gave me such a clear glimpse into their love and their personalities. I feel so honored to be part of this season of their lives.

If you’re looking for a Northern Virginia engagement photographer and you’re drawn to garden spaces, I’d love to help you plan something beautiful. Green Spring Gardens photos are always a favorite! And I’m more than happy to share all my best tips for timing that golden hour glow just right.

For more spring engagement photos at Green Spring Gardens, check out Sarah and Max’s session here! For more beautiful garden venues in Northern Virginia, take a look at Sydney and Nick’s engagement photos at Oatlands Historic House and Gardens, as well as Sarah and Nick’s engagement photos at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens.

P.S. – you’ll find a few film photos hidden within the gallery below! I’ve been playing with my film camera recently and brought some Kodak Gold 200 film to this session just for fun. While these photos are not part of my regular offering and this film stock isn’t perfectly in line with my usual style, it’s been fun to experiment as a surprise for my clients and learn more about the world of film. See if you can guess which ones are film below!