A Forest Park Engagement Session with the Most Beautiful Golden Hour Light

As a St. Louis engagement photographer, I have had the privilege of shooting in some truly stunning locations, but Forest Park never gets old. There is something about that park at golden hour that feels almost cinematic, and Victoria and Sean’s session was no exception. From Art Hill to The World’s Fair Pavilion and ending at the Nathan Frank Bandstand at Pagoda Circle, this evening had everything: warm light, beautiful outfits, two very good dogs, and a couple that was absolutely made for each other.

Meet Victoria and Sean

Victoria and Sean are getting married, and I could not be more excited to be part of their day. From the moment we started chatting about their session, I knew this was going to be a special one. They came in with a great energy, a clear sense of style, and two adorable pups named Bear and Luna who absolutely stole the show at the start of the session. Getting to know couples before their wedding day is one of my favorite parts of this job, and engagement sessions are the perfect way to do that.

Starting at Art Hill with Bear and Luna

We kicked things off at Art Hill, right in front of the Saint Louis Art Museum, with Bear and Luna leading the way. If you have never brought your dogs to an engagement session, I cannot recommend it enough. There is something so natural and joyful about having your pets there. It immediately loosens everyone up and brings out the most genuine smiles and laughs. Victoria and Sean were naturals from the very first frame, and Bear and Luna were basically professional models.

The World’s Fair Pavilion at Golden Hour

After we said goodbye to the pups, we made our way over to the World’s Fair Pavilion. As a St. Louis engagement photographer, this is one of my absolute favorite spots in the entire city. The architecture is stunning, the light at that hour is warm and dreamy, and it gives such a variety of textures and backdrops to work with. Victoria wore the most gorgeous floral midi dress for this part of the session and it was absolutely perfect against the warm tones of the pavilion. These two were so comfortable together. There was so much laughter and so many quiet, tender moments that I just got to capture.

Wrapping Up at the Nathan Frank Bandstand

We closed out the evening at Pagoda Circle, with the Nathan Frank Bandstand glowing in the background across the lake. The light at this point was absolutely magical. That last soft, golden wash before the sun disappeared was the perfect ending to a perfect session.

Forest Park: A Dream Location for St. Louis Engagement Photography

Forest Park truly is one of the best locations in the city for engagement photography. The variety of backdrops, the open space, and the way the light moves through the park in the evening make it a dream to shoot in. If you are looking for a St. Louis engagement photographer who knows this park well and loves it just as much as you do, I would love to connect.

Victoria and Sean, thank you so much for such a beautiful evening. I cannot wait for your wedding day!