One of the first questions I get when couples start planning their engagement session is, “Where should we take our pictures?” And honestly, choosing a location can feel harder than it needs to be. You want somewhere that looks good, but you also want it to feel like you.

Luckily, the Des Moines area has a lot of options. Whether you want something romantic and natural, downtown and modern, or somewhere that feels a little more adventurous, there’s a spot for you.

Here are some of my favorite engagement session locations around Des Moines.

Iowa State Capitol

If you want classic Iowa, this is hard to beat. The Capitol has beautiful architecture, open grounds, greenery, and plenty of different backdrops to work with. It gives your gallery that timeless look without every photo feeling like it was taken in the same spot. I especially love this location for couples who want a mix of elegant and natural photos.

Best for: Classic, timeless, elegant photos

World Food Prize Hall of Laureates

This is such a beautiful option for couples wanting something a little more romantic and polished. The historic architecture and gardens give you a completely different look from a typical park engagement session. There are also some really pretty areas around the riverfront, so you can get a nice variety without having to travel all over the city. This one does require permission for professional photography, so that’s something to keep in mind when planning your session.

Best for: Romantic, elegant, and editorial photos

Water Works Park

Water Works is one of those locations that gives you a lot to work with. You can get greenery, trees, open fields, walking paths, and beautiful light depending on the time of day. It’s a great choice if you want your photos to feel natural and relaxed without going too far outside Des Moines. It’s also a great spot for couples who don’t necessarily want a super posed session.

Best for: Natural, relaxed, and romantic photos

Dale Maffitt Reservoir

If you want your engagement photos to feel a little more outdoorsy, I’d definitely consider Dale Maffitt. There’s plenty of open space, trees, trails, and tall grasses that give the photos a more secluded feel. It doesn’t have the same city backdrop as some of the other locations on this list, which is exactly why I like it. Golden hour here can be especially beautiful.

Best for: Outdoorsy, relaxed, and adventurous couples

Jester Park

Jester Park is another great choice if you want nature to be the main backdrop. There are wooded areas, trails, prairie, and plenty of room to move around during your session. It works really well for couples who want their photos to feel less formal and more like they’re spending an evening together. And because there are so many different areas, we can usually get a good variety of images without making the session feel rushed.

Best for: Nature lovers and couples wanting a relaxed session

Gray’s Lake

If you want water, greenery, and a little bit of the Des Moines skyline, Gray’s Lake is a great option. It’s especially pretty around sunset when the light starts changing and the city starts to glow. You can get a mixture of walking photos, close-up portraits, and wider images that show off the location.

Best for: Couples who want water and a little city mixed in

Downtown Des Moines

Downtown doesn’t have to mean standing in front of a random building and smiling at the camera. There are so many different textures and backdrops throughout downtown, from brick buildings and streets to bridges, architecture, murals, and the riverwalk. This is a great choice if you want your engagement photos to feel a little more modern and editorial.

Best for: Urban, modern, and editorial photos

East Village

East Village is another fun option for couples who want something different from a traditional park. The mix of brick buildings, storefronts, streets, and architecture gives the session a more laid-back city feel. It’s also a good option if you want your engagement photos to feel like you’re actually out on a date together rather than having a formal photo session.

Best for: Modern, fun, and city-loving couples

Clare & Miles Mills Rose Garden

For couples who want something romantic, the Rose Garden is a beautiful option. The gardens, flowers, pathways, and greenery create a softer look, especially when everything is in bloom. It’s definitely more seasonal than some of the other locations, but when the timing is right, it can be gorgeous.

Best for: Romantic and garden-inspired photos

Ledges State Park

If you’re willing to drive a little outside the Des Moines area, Ledges is one I’d put on the list. The landscape feels completely different from the typical Des Moines engagement location. You get wooded trails, rock formations, and the river, which can make your gallery feel like a little adventure. It’s a particularly good choice if you and your partner would rather explore than spend an hour standing in one spot taking pictures.

Best for: Adventurous couples and dramatic scenery

If you’re planning an engagement session in the Des Moines area and aren’t sure where to start, I’d love to help you find a location that fits your style.