When I’m recommending an engagement session location to couples, I try to suggest locations that have great light and offer a variety of beautiful backgrounds.

I have to admit, The Grand Basin in Forest Park is one of my favorite places for engagement sessions!

1. It has good variety

The immediate vicinity of the Grand Basin has quite a bit of backdrop variety, so you get a number of different location looks during your session. As an added bonus, all of these things are just a short, flat walk away.

2. The light there is beautiful in both the morning and the evening.

Morning or evening, there’s always beautiful light to be found in the area of the Grand Basin. I wouldn’t recommend shooting there mid-day though… It’s so bright (and like, 5-10 degrees hotter) you’ll burn your retinas. And also probably the soles of your feet. But early in the morning or at sunset? It’s one of the prettiest spots in the city.

3. There’s not just one but THREE cool bridges.

4. There’s a rocky beach area that makes it feel like a completely different place.

You know, like something you’d see on a postcard from Colorado.

5. The St. Louis Art Museum and Art Hill in the background with the fountains and the columns is just impressive.

It definitely gives off some European vibes.