Need some location inspiration for your photo session?
I have compiled this comprehensive list of Cape Cod’s most impressive photo spots after years and years of combing through the region’s beauty. In the 4 years I spent working for the Cape Cod Times, I visited many of these places often and in the past few years of running my own wedding photography business full-time I have discovered that these beaches and scenic areas provide the kind of picturesque backdrop that most couples are seeking when they are planning their engagement session.
1. The Knob, Falmouth
This has become the preferred spot for engagement sessions, so popular, in fact, that it does get a little busy at the most scenic parts. The jewel of a location provides many different ambiances– a woodsy, rustic look, rocky coastlines and a unique narrow walkway to a little island vista. It’s a short trail walk, .9 mile loop, with spectacular views of Quisset Harbor and Buzzards Bay.
2. Sandy Neck, Barnstable
The sweeping views of dunes are sure to make your jaw drop as you traverse on one of the longest Cape Cod Beaches. Couples who have an ORV permit can drive on and escape to the back trails for softer sand and maybe a romantic bonfire.
3. Chatham Light
Stunning soft sand beach with lots of nooks and crannies. Take a walk down the shoreline to the south beach shrine living sculpture also known as “Occupy Chatham South Beach” Make a pitstop at the Fish Pier to take a few photos on the docks with the fishing boats.
4. Rock Harbor, Orleans
Known for its unique “clam tree” channel markers–there’s lots of variety at this location. The fishing charter docks present opportunities for that nautical look as well as the wall of weathered buoys. At low tide the glistening flats stretch out for miles.
6. Sandwich Boardwalk
Named one of the top 10 boardwalks in the U.S. by the National Geographic, the 450-yard footbridge over Mill Creek leading to a staircase to Town Neck Beach. The idyllic views of the marsh and beaches will take your breath away. Unfortunately, the boardwalk is now closed due to storm damage but the near by Town Neck Beach is still a great location with access the part of the boardwalk that is still in tact.
7. Uncle Tim’s Bridge, Wellfleet
This historic footbridge originally built in 1783 crosses over Duck Creek. The lines and depth of the footbridge provides lots of opportunity for creative angles and perspective. After we get a couple photos at the bridge, we can zip over to Wellfleet Harbor for some photos by the fishing boats and some portraits on Mayo Beach.
8. Coast Guard Beach
There’s lots of scenery to choose from at this Cape Cod National Seashore beach. Nauset Marsh is adjacent to the former Coast Guard Station and offers an expansive vista. The red and white historic lifesaving station looks like it jumped right out of a painting. The planked walkways to the beach have that storied Cape Cod appeal and pairs perfectly with an engaged couple in love.
9. Gray’s Beach
Yarmouth port’s boardwalk is a popular sunset watching spot. The planked walkway stretches out over a salt marsh with views of Chapin Beach in Dennis. At low tide, the ripples in the sand made fascinating designs that make for a stunning backdrop.
10. Nauset Light
Looking for the quintessential Cape Cod lighthouse? You may recognize this red and white beacon from the drawing on a bag of irresistibly crunchy Cape Cod potato chips. The lighthouse was originally moved from Chatham to Eastham 200-feet from a cliff. Coastal erosion threatened this historical landmark and in 1996 it was moved a few hundred feet away from the cliff’s edge.
