Planning your Kraft Azalea Gardens engagement photos?
You’re gonna love this spot! It’s in Winter Park, Florida – literally just 15 minutes from Orlando – and it’s one of the most gorgeous places for engagement photos. This guide’s got everything you need to plan your session at Kraft Azalea Garden for your engagement session.
Looking for other engagement spots in the Orlando or Central Florida area? Click here for more locations!
MY TOP TIPS FOR ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS AT KRAFT AZALEA GARDENS
- Bring bug spray! Especially for sunset sessions – mosquitoes love hanging out near the water once the sun goes down.
- Comfortable shoes are your friend. The park is small (like 10 minutes to walk), but if you want heels for some shots, bring both and switch halfway through!
- Best time for your session? Golden hour. That hour before sunset gives you the most gorgeous light.
- Bring water
BEST TIME TO SCHEDULE YOUR ENGAGEMENT SESSION
- Golden hour, hands down The light filtering through those beautiful trees with the Spanish moss creates the dreamiest vibe for your photos at Kraft Azalea Garden.
- Weekdays are your best bet since the park stays pretty slow, but if that doesn’t work, go for Sunday – it’s way less crowded than Saturdays.
- Best months? October through April. The weather’s way more comfortable during those cooler months. You can totally do summer sessions too, but just be ready for that Florida heat and humidity!
COST & Parking TO ENTER KRAFT AZALEA PARK
Kraft Azalea Park is completely free to get in!
…but you do need a permit for photo sessions.
I’m linking the application right here so you can read through the instructions and fill it out. I’m more than happy to help you with this whole process!
Parking at Kraft Azalea Garden has two options. There’s one right at the entrance by the main walkway, or my go-to spot on the (left side) of the park. The left side can be a little tricky to find, but it’s way closer to the bathrooms if you need to change outfits or freshen up!
BEST SPOTS WITHIN KRAFT AZALEA GARDEN
- Right at the entrance, you’ve got an amazing view of the lake with towering cypress trees and those iconic columns in the background.
- The archway (The White Columns) is super popular and romantic – it’s also where ceremonies happen!
- The right side has more of those gorgeous cypress trees, but heads up, it can get crowded on weekends.
- The left side is way less crowded with more pathways to explore, plus it’s perfect for setting up a cute picnic setup with blankets!
WHAT TO WEAR FOR KRAFT AZALEA ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS
- Dress comfortably and be yourself! Physically comfortable AND comfortable in your own skin – if that means jeans and a t-shirt, totally fine! I want you to feel like you, not like you’re wearing a costume.
- For females, A flowy dress works great here. But again, only if that’s your vibe! If you’re a jeans-everywhere person, rock those jeans.
- Bring two pairs of shoes If you want, you can start with heels if you love them, then switch to comfy shoes mid-session – best of both worlds!
- Color-wise? Think earthy tones and pastels. They complement the natural setting perfectly, but also pick colors that complement each other as a couple.
- For guys, Button-ups are popular. And no, you don’t have to wear white! Just coordinate with what your partner’s wearing so you complement each other.
OPTIONAL ADD-ONS OR CREATIVE IDEA
Picnic setup – highly recommend!
Bring a blanket, picnic basket, champagne or wine, some cheese and fruit, and you’ve got yourself a romantic, Notebook-style vibe going on.
Bring a vintage book or a letter to read to each other.
Super romantic and gives you something natural to do with your hands!
Polaroid camera for candid moments.
Take some instant photos of each other during the session – you’ll have fun keepsakes plus cute behind-the-scenes shots.
Champagne pop
Creates a fun, celebratory vibe and makes for dynamic, joyful shots!
Bring something meaningful to you as a couple
Your dog, a vintage car, instruments you play together, coffee from your favorite spot – anything that tells your story!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
- Do you need a permit for photos at Kraft Azalea Garden?
Yes — photo sessions require a permit from the City of Winter Park, but entry to the park is free. Click here to get your permit
2. What’s the best time for engagement photos?
Golden hour, either early morning or an hour before sunset, gives the most flattering, romantic light.
3. When is the park least crowded?
Weekdays or Sunday evenings are usually calm. Saturdays tend to get busy with weddings and other photo sessions.
do you want an unique experience?
If you’ve been dreaming of having your engagement photos in Kraft Azalea Gardens, I’d love to work with you.
I know this location inside and out and can help you feel confident, relaxed, and totally in love with your photos. Fill out the form below.
