They say, “When you know, you know,” and Kelli and Adam knew that their relationship was special from the start. Their close friendship quickly turned into something more, and the rest was history! I had a blast hitting the town with these two for their Charlotte engagement session, and it was an honor to be able to capture this sweet chapter of their love story. These two are sweet, playful, and already have that good-humored banter going on. It wasn’t hard to get great candids of these happy love birds.




We decided Uptown Charlotte would be our best bet for their winter engagement session since the parks lack their vibrant color in the colder months. Uptown Charlotte provides a gorgeous cityscape backdrop and boasts unique architectural features. This was just the look they were going for (and we even found a pretty teal door with green ivy for the pop of color we wanted).




After getting some great shots of the cityscape from Romare Bearden Park, we headed to a breezy parking deck for more views. Kelli looked absolutely stunning in her flowy dress. She rocked it despite the freezing wind up there! Hope you enjoy checking out their photos as much as I loved taking them. Congratulations on your engagement, Kelli and Adam!




Wondering where to go for your own Charlotte, NC engagement photos? Here are a few of my favorite spots!
Best Locations for Engagement Photos in Charlotte, NC
1. Romare Bearden Park
This beloved park spans across five acres of manicured lawns and garden areas. The uptown park has several paths and walkways plus seating alcoves beneath the lattice for privacy and shade. Romare Bearden Park is a romantic spot for an outdoor engagement session, and you’re in a prime location to walk to get a variety of photos like Kelli and Adam.
2. Annie Springs Close Greenway
Just outside of Charlotte, in Ft Mill, NC is The Annie Springs Close Greenway. There are different areas to explore, with a white dairy barn (which is now an beautiful wedding venue), rolling hills, horse pastures, a lake, and just beauty everywhere you look. Its the perfect park setting for an engagement session.
3. Camp North End
Camp North End is super cool spot! It old renovated factories are becoming a hub for creativity, new shops and restaurants and just a fun place to walk around! The Camp North End vibe is very urban, being that its an old factory site but there is street art and bistro lights, cute airstreams turned bars, and little nooks to dip into for some shots!
4. Outside the Mint Museum Uptown
For a more urban vibe, take your photos outside the iconic Mint Museum of Art! The museum sits in a centralized location and features modern architecture and mature trees to soften harsh sunlight. The shimmering statue and greenery out front add extra dimension, color, and interesting balance to photos. Plus, we can use neighboring storefronts and uptown backdrop for more photos.
5. Jetton Park
Are you wanting to be by some water at your session but still keep it close to Charlotte? Lake Norman has some great options, and Jetton Park is one! There are evergreen tree lines paths, that stay green even in the winter, grassy areas, and a little beach area. The sun sets behind you in the evening and it can make for some sweet beachy feel photos right in the Charlotte area.
6. Mecklenberg County Nature Preserves
Keep it natural and take your photoshoot to one of Mecklenberg County’s beautiful nature preserves. The Piedmont region of North Carolina displays some beautiful greenery and foliage. The trails are a great place to discover Charlotte’s natural beauty, and you’ll have a bit more privacy for a more intimate shoot (or if you feel nervous about taking your photos in front of passersby in the city).
7. Soutside Charlotte
The South side of Charlotte is being completely updated and renovated, and there are options like South End, cute breezeways and mural walls. Or Southside Rd., which is home to awesome Breweries like Sugar Creek Brewing Company and Old Mecklenburg Brewery. The whole area has a releaxed vibe, with different areas that make for great photos, plus, lets grab a beer!
8. Historic Latta Plantation
Experience the city’s rich history underneath the shade trees at Latta Plantation, home of the big tree museum in the middle of the city! Take a tour of the estate or simply enjoy this quiet green space and sunny gardens during your photo session. Then, make a date night in Charlotte afterward!
9. The Andrews Farm
The Andrews Farm will always be one of my favorite places to photograph. This wedding venue is also home to The Andrews family and they have an amazing white, french cottage feel home with beautiful garden spaces and amazing architecture. Its definitely a space to look into for your shoot, because no matter the season its so pretty!
Ready to Book Your Charlotte, NC Engagement Photos?
We have limited spots left for 2021, and we’re currently booking for 2022. Reserve your spot with Dawn Marie Photography here. Plus, check out some recent sessions for inspiration here.




