Last year, I had the pleasure of shooting Justin and Masey’s proposal. It was a magical moment that was made even more special by the stunning backdrop of St. Augustine! Now, they’ve booked me for their wedding this October. Masey, being a fan of this historic town, wanted their engagement session to be held here. As photographers, we often have to navigate through various challenges to get that perfect shot. And St. Augustine, despite its beauty, is no exception. So, I thought it’d be great to share some tips to help my fellow photographers navigate these challenges. In this blog, I share 3 tips on how to shoot in St. Augustine.

Tips on How to Shoot in St. Augustine

#1 How to Shoot in St. Augustine – Avoid the Weekends

Weekends in St. Augustine, especially during summer, are a magnet for people! The streets are crowded with tourists and locals, all eager to explore what this beautiful town has to offer. If you must shoot during these peak times, I’d recommend heading out early. There’s a certain calmness in the early morning that not only allows for stress-free shooting but also adds a unique touch to your photos. Sure, you might encounter a few hungover people from the previous night’s festivities, but trust me, it’s better than fighting with hundreds of others for that perfect shot!

#2 Opt for Less Congested Locations

The main historic walkway in St. Augustine is usually the busiest. It’s a great place to capture the vibrancy of the town, but not so great if you’re looking for a less stressful shooting experience. So, what’s the solution? Choose locations like the front of the Lightner Museum, Flagler College, or Castillo de San Marco. These places are equally stunning, they provide a variety of backdrops for your photos, and most importantly, they’re less crowded. Look into these locations when planning your session so you know if they are what you are looking for!

#3 Head to Vilano Beach

If you still have some sunlight left after shooting in the town, why not change the scenery a bit? A quick 10-minute drive from downtown St. Augustine will take you to Vilano Beach – the best place for beach photos, hands down! It’s my personal favorite, I have had the pleasure of capturing many couples in this stunning location and it never disappoints, trust me! And now you can even drive straight onto the beach. The golden sand, the serene waves, and the beautiful sky create the perfect setting for some amazing photos.

Taylor Made | North Florida Engagement Photographer

Shooting in St. Augustine doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning and some flexibility, you can navigate through the crowds, find less congested locations, and make the most of what this beautiful town has to offer! And remember, at the end of the day, it’s not just about the photos, but also the experience. Planning your engagement session? Perfect! Head to my contact page so we can chat about the ideas you have and where you want the session to be shot. Can’t wait to hear from you!