Engagement Photos at Forsyth Park, Wormsloe Historic Site, & Tybee Island Lighthouse

Savannah is one of the most romantic cities in the U.S.—and not just for weddings. It’s the perfect destination to knock out your engagement photos while exploring somewhere new. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, scouting for wedding venues, or just want photos that feel timeless and meaningful, Savannah delivers. From oak-lined streets to misty coastal sunrises, this city gives you variety, charm, and atmosphere in every direction. Plus, it’s walkable, warm most of the year, and packed with spots to turn your session into a whole experience.

Savannah is soaked in golden light, draped in Spanish moss, and full of timeless architecture and coastal charm. Whether you’re local or visiting for your engagement getaway, this city offers truly iconic backdrops—and a few hidden gems—for your photo session.

Here are three of my favorite engagement photo locations in the Savannah area that balance beauty, meaning, and a touch of the unexpected.

Engagement Photos at Forsyth Park

Romantic, walkable, and instantly recognizable

If you’ve seen photos of Savannah, you’ve seen Forsyth Park. The iron fountain framed by moss-draped oaks is pure southern charm—but the park offers much more: lush gardens, historic homes along its perimeter, and wide open space for movement and natural moments.

Why I Love It:

• Dreamy morning light under the trees
• Easy parking and public access
• Pairs well with historic downtown streets for variety

Photographer Pro Tips:

• Shoot early—sunrise to 8 AM is ideal for privacy and golden light
• Consider bringing a picnic blanket, parasol, or champagne toast setup for storytelling shots
• Wear soft, neutral tones that complement the green-and-gold backdrop

Engagement Photos at Wormsloe Historic Site

Iconic live-oak tunnel—but with layered history

Wormsloe Historic Site has a stunning 1.5-mile oak-lined avenue is one of Georgia’s most photographed landmarks—and for good reason. The trees arch overhead like a cathedral of moss and dappled light. That said, this location also carries a complex past. Wormsloe was once a colonial plantation, built and operated with enslaved labor. While the scenery is breathtaking, it’s important to acknowledge the pain woven into this land’s history.

Why I Love It:

• One of the most visually striking spots in the region
• Forest paths and old tabby ruins add texture and mood beyond the tunnel
• Feels cinematic in every season

Know Before You Go:

• Admission: $10 per adult (required for photo access)
• Hours: 9 AM–4:45 PM, closed Mondays
• Arrive as soon as they open!—it will be crowded within the first 2 hours of opening, especially on a weekend

Photographer Pro Tips:

• Bring bug spray and water (especially in warmer months)
• Be mindful of signage and respectful of boundaries—some areas are restricted, privately owned, or fragile
• Have a conversation with your photographer (me!) about honoring the space and sharing its story thoughtfully

Sunrise Engagement Photos at Tybee Island & Lighthouse

Soft sunrise light and windswept coastal romance

Tybee Island offers a breezy shift from downtown Savannah’s historic density. The North Beach area near the Tybee Island Light Station & Museum is especially lovely for sunrise sessions—imagine the sun breaking over the Atlantic as you walk the shore or cuddle in the dunes.

Why I Love It:

• Coastal textures: dunes, driftwood, sea oats, and open skies
• Lighthouse provides strong architectural framing
• Often quieter than mid-island beaches

Know Before You Go:

• The beach itself is free and accessible 24/7, but the lighthouse grounds open at 9 AM and require admission if you want to shoot inside
• Check Tybee tide charts for low tide and soft lighting
• Sunrise sessions here = fewer crowds, more parking, and cool sand

Photographer Pro Tips:

• Bring a light blanket or wrap—it’s breezy and sometimes chilly pre-dawn
• Avoid holidays or festival weekends; it can get packed
• Pair with a post-session beach breakfast at The Breakfast Club or Sunrise Restaurant

Slow It Down: Make It a Full-Day Experience

These locations each deserve their own moment—and so do you. If you want to visit all three in one day, plan for a sunrise-to-dinner with intentional breaks in between. Not only does that allow for multiple outfit changes and relaxed transitions, but it also gives each space the breathing room it deserves.

Between drive time, walking distances, and lighting windows, this is best treated as a full-day storytelling session (and trust me, it’s worth it). Sunrise at Tybee, golden hour at Wormsloe, and pre-dinner golden hour glow in Forsyth Park? Now that’s cinematic.

Where to Stay: The Bellwether House

If you’re looking for a place to stay that blends modern luxury with Savannah’s iconic southern charm, I can’t recommend The Bellwether House enough.

Set in the heart of the Historic District, this boutique hotel feels like a restful retreat wrapped in history. Each stay includes daily high tea and evening cocktail hour, making it the perfect home base whether you’re prepping for a photo session, winding down after a beach morning, or simply soaking in Savannah’s slower pace.

Must-Stop Savannah Dining & Experiences (When You’re Not in Front of the Camera)

Make a weekend of it! A few of my favorite local spots:

Brunch at The Collins Quarter – Genuinely one of the best brunches in town. Think perfect lattes, shrimp & grits, and breezy outdoor seating.

Gryphon Tea Room – A must-stop if you love high tea, elegant vibes, and feeling like you’ve stepped into a southern novel. White tablecloths, antique books, and a tea selection worth lingering over.

The Grey – For date night or celebration dinners. Incredible food in a restored Greyhound station with James Beard cred.

Back in the Day Bakery – Come for the biscuits, stay for the old-school treats.

E. Shaver Booksellers – Cozy, book-scented heaven with a tea shop and shop cats.

Leopold’s Ice Cream – Go for the classic vanilla; stay for the movie history.

End the Night with a Ghost Tour

Savannah is known as America’s most haunted city—and whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, a walking ghost tour is a must.

Choose a lantern-lit storytelling tour that winds through the Historic District’s oldest alleys and cemeteries. It’s fun, a little eerie, and makes for a great wind-down after a day of photos and food.

What to Bring for Your Engagement Session

• Neutral-toned outfits with natural movement (linen, cotton, soft florals)
• Bug spray, bottled water, and maybe a cooling towel
• Flat shoes or sandals for walking between spots
• A sense of humor—yes, you’ll sweat a little, but it’ll be fun, I promise

When to Take Engagement Photos in Savannah: A Seasonal Breakdown

Savannah is beautiful year-round—but the experience of your photo session can vary a lot depending on the season. Here’s what to expect (and how to prepare) for each time of year:

Spring (March–May)

Best for: Flower lovers, crisp light, downtown strolls

• Azaleas explode in March, especially around Forsyth Park and Bonaventure Cemetery.
• Mornings are cool and golden, and the city feels lush but not too muggy yet.
• It’s also high tourist season—so sunrise is your friend if you want quiet corners.
• What to bring: A light layer, allergy meds if pollen gets to you, and water for midday shoots.

Summer (June–August)

Best for: Beach lovers, tropical greenery, slower vibes

• It’s hot. It’s humid. And it’s gorgeous if you’re prepared.
• Sunrise and sunset shoots are a must—Wormsloe and Tybee absolutely glow.
• Fewer crowds at early hours, and the long days give you more flexibility.
• What to bring: Bug spray, blotting cloths, water, and breathable outfits (linen, cotton).

Fall (September–November)

Best for: Soft golden light, lower humidity, quiet trails

• Arguably the best time of year—Savannah’s heat eases, and everything still feels lush.
• Light gets warm and cinematic, especially in late afternoon under Spanish moss.
• Ideal for full-day sessions if you want to explore more than one location.
• What to bring: Layers for the evening, rich earth-toned outfits, maybe a cozy blanket for photos.

Winter (December–February)

Best for: Minimalism, architectural shots, cozy vibes

• The live oaks and moss stay green year-round, and the city takes on a quiet calm.
• Days are cooler but rarely freezing. Expect moody skies and soft, diffused light.
• Fewer visitors = more room to explore, especially downtown and at Wormsloe.
• What to bring: A dressy coat or shawl for warmth, neutral outfits, and a backup umbrella just in case.

Pro Tip: Plan for Light + Mood

Regardless of season, sunrise and golden hour are your best friends—especially in high-traffic spots like Forsyth or Wormsloe. We’ll work together to choose the right time based on your vision, comfort level, and what feels most like you.

Engagement Photos for Military Couples Near Fort Gordon, Fort Jackson, & Charleston

Savannah is an ideal spot for military couples stationed at nearby bases like Fort Gordon, Fort Jackson, or Naval Weapons Station Charleston. With its blend of coastal charm, Spanish moss, and historic architecture, it makes for a romantic weekend escape—perfect for engagement photos, pre-deployment sessions, or simply documenting this season of life together. Make a weekend trip out of it and soak up everything from Tybee’s beaches to Savannah’s iconic squares.

All four couples featured in this post are military or veterans—three were stationed at Fort Gordon, and one is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran. Whether you’re currently serving or transitioning out, Savannah offers a timeless and meaningful backdrop to celebrate your love.

As a U.S. Army Reservist myself, I understand the unpredictable schedules, last-minute plans, and tight windows that come with military life. I’ve worked with countless military couples to plan engagement sessions around deployments, field training, and PCS moves—and I’m always happy to flex when duty calls. If you’re navigating a chaotic schedule but still want photos that feel intentional and meaningful, I’ve got you.

Check out my blog post, “Why You Should Hire a Veteran Photographer,” (coming soon) for more on how my background shapes the way I serve my clients.

Let’s Craft Your Savannah Story

Whether you’re planning an engagement session, a proposal, or just want to preserve your trip to the South’s most romantic city, I’d love to help you create a session that’s personal, soulful, and rooted in place.

As a traveling engagement photographer who thrives on early mornings, quiet corners, and emotional storytelling, I’d love to capture your Savannah chapter. From the first light on Tybee to the last whisper of Spanish moss in Forsyth, we’ll take our time—and make it unforgettable.

Reach out here to start planning your Savannah photo session.