Lake Tahoe is the ultimate backdrop for engagement photos! Seriously, the combination of crystal-clear water, epic mountains, and towering pines is downright magical. Whether you want an adventurous shoreline session, a quiet forest setting, or a dramatic rocky overlook, there’s a perfect spot for you. Here are my top picks for the best locations for your Lake Tahoe engagement photos!
Secret Cove | East Shore
This is a magical cove that offers a pristine beach where you get the iconic aqua blue water of Tahoe. This is a short but spicy (mostly on the way back up) hike of about a mile roundtrip that takes you through the pines as you make your way down to the beach. This is the only nude beach around Tahoe, so I suggest choosing this location at sunrise. There is so much here, from the beach to the massive granite boulders, the water, and all the fun and unique backgrounds.
Fallen Leaf Lake | South Lake
If you love the idea of lake views without the crowds of Tahoe’s more popular spots, Fallen Leaf Lake is an amazing option. The pebbly shoreline, clear water, and insane views of Mount Tallac make for a seriously dreamy engagement session. There’s a trail that runs along the lake, but the best wide-open views are right near the parking lot. Sunset sessions here are extra moody since the sun dips behind the mountains earlier than other locations.
Nevada Beach | South Lake
This beach has a special spot in my heart because it was my very first Tahoe beach experience when I first visited here. I was blown away by the sand and the size of the pine cones from the Jeffrey Pines. And it really makes for an awesome engagement photo location.
The beach has two access points. My favorite is from the Lam Watah Nature Trail. It’s about 2.7 miles roundtrip and mostly flat. I like this option because it offers grassy meadows, aspen trees, and pine trees, as well as the beach. This is a lovely sunset spot, and the sand here is unique! I also recommend opting for a sunrise time if you want to avoid other people.
Valhalla | South Lake
Valhalla is a beautiful and historic estate operated by the Forest Service. I absolutely love the flat paved path to the beach, which offers towering pines among the sagebrush. The public beach is also pine-lined and has a pier that always makes for fun photos! Mornings here are something special. There’s usually mist rising from the lake, and we may get lucky to spot a bear out and about (from a safe distance, of course!).
Quick Tips for Your Lake Tahoe Engagement Photos
- Always Leave No Trace! We’ll pack everything out and treat this beautiful place with respect.
- Bring layers, snacks, and water! Keeping your energy high makes for better photos. Plus, the layers will allow for variety in your photos when you change your look a little bit!
- If we’re hiking to your spot, wear sturdy shoes (bonus: hiking boots look badass in photos!), and bring dressier shoes in a backpack if you want a different look.
- Wear something you feel confident AND comfortable in! This will allow you to move around and enjoy your session, and when you look back at your photos, they will feel like you! You don’t have to get all new outfits and think you have to look a certain way for your photos to be beautiful—they will be beautiful because it’s both of you—madly in love!
- Your engagement session is about celebrating your love story, so don’t be afraid to get a little adventurous! Whether that means climbing up a rocky overlook, dipping your toes in the lake, or cozying up under the stars, I’m all about capturing the real, raw moments that feel like you.
And if you’re still deciding whether you really need an engagement session, check out this blog!
Ready to Capture Epic Engagement Photos in Lake Tahoe?
Hey, I’m Amanda! When you choose me as your Lake Tahoe engagement photographer, you’re not just getting stunning photos. You’re getting a partner in crime who will meticulously capture every laugh, every stolen glance, and every inside joke that makes your love story uniquely yours.
I’ve got you covered when it comes to location scouting, lighting, and making sure you look and feel amazing. All you need to do is show up, be present with each other, and have fun. You can check out my portfolio here, and when you’re ready, send me a message here! I can’t wait to hear from you!
