There are so many great places in Sioux Falls to take engagement photos. From open fields to gorgeous nature areas, the possibilities are seriously endless in this town.

Once you find a photographer for your wedding day (more info on how to make that decision here), the next thing you’ll get to planning is your engagement session. This is such a great time to get to know your photographer, and for your photographer to get to know you and your fiancé. The last thing you want to deal with on your wedding day is awkwardness because you’ve never met or have barely said hello to your ‘tog. These sessions make everyone feel a lot more comfortable for the upcoming big day.

Here are a couple amazing locations to consider when planning your engagement sessions.

Arrowhead Park

Arrowhead Park is located on the east side of Sioux Falls, past Willow Run golf course. The pond makes it a gorgeous spot for photos, and it’s a stunning location especially at sunset. I love shooting near the big willow tree, and the tall grass makes for great images too.

Sertoma Park

I’m probably guilty of using Sertoma Park too often, but it’s such an easy west side location and it’s so incredibly versatile! I can shoot here a dozen times and use a different area of the park each time. Plus, it looks so different as the seasons change, so it’s a great spot no matter if it’s spring, summer, fall, or winter.

Japanese Gardens

All of Downtown Sioux Falls is great for photos, but if you venture a little farther you’ll find the Japanese Gardens and Terrace Park and these are a true gem! It’s gorgeous a lot of the year, but in the spring for about a week (sometimes less!) the trees bloom gorgeous pink blossoms and it’s seriously jaw-dropping.

Lake Alvin

This is a little bit of a drive from town, but so worth it. It can be difficult to find picturesque areas when the temps drop, but Lake Alvin is gorgeous no matter what the time of year. The big pine trees and beautiful lake views are perfect for photos, and sunset at this spot is beautiful.

Trails at Tomar

I’m a sucker for the matchstick-looking trees at the trails at Tomar Park. They’re so unique and different from other spots in Sioux Falls. There are also a few pretty, open fields with long grass, so you can get a variety of different settings for your engagement photos.

Palisades

Palisades is technically in Garrettson, but I can’t talk about great Sioux Falls spots without at least mentioning it. If you’re up for a little bit of a drive (about 20-30 minutes from downtown), there is really nothing else like Palisades. The rock formations and cliffs are breathtaking, and when the sun sets on the lake you’ll have the perfect backdrop for your photos. This is another spot that can be really nice even if the weather isn’t that great, because it’s not a super green location – it’s mostly about the cool rocks!

Do you have any favorite spots in Sioux Falls that you would add to this list? Let me know in the comments!