Planning your Discovery Park Engagement Photos with cliffside views

Aug 3

Written By Becca Jones- Seattle Wedding Photographer

Dreamy Discovery Park Engagement Photos with Cliffside Views + Golden Fields

If golden fields, dramatic ocean views, and salty breeze vibes are your jam, Discovery Park is basically your engagement session soulmate.

Tucked right into the heart of Seattle, this place gives major romantic energy without having to leave the city. For couples who want natural beauty, sweeping views, and a little adventure, Discovery Park engagement photos always hit that sweet spot.

Today, I’m spilling all the details on my favorite hidden gem inside the park: the open field + cliffside trail that gives you golden-hour MAGIC and windswept, coastal romance. Trust me—it’s the kind of spot that’ll have you saying, “Wait, we’re still in Seattle?!”

Why Discovery Park Is an Engagement Photo Dream

Let me paint the picture for you: soft golden light dancing through tall grasses, the sound of waves crashing in the distance, and that feeling of calm you only get in nature. That’s the vibe at Discovery Park.

The park is a go-to for engagement photos because it’s so versatile. You get:

Wide open meadows that glow at sunset
Coastal cliffside views that give you all the moody, windswept energy
Forested trails, secret little nooks, and space to just breathe

It’s like a bunch of mini locations rolled into one, which means you’ll walk away with a gallery that looks way more “weekend getaway” than “city park.”

The Spot: Open Fields + Cliffside Views (10/10 Would Recommend)

Let’s talk location specifics—because Discovery Park is big. Our favorite route starts from the South Parking Lot. From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the open fields that stretch toward the water. You’ll know you’re there when everything feels golden and glowy and you suddenly want to run through the grass like you’re in a rom-com.

Then we head another 10 minutes through the fields and boom—we’re on the cliffside bluff with panoramic views of the Puget Sound. It’s wide open, breezy, and seriously jaw-dropping. This is where I’ll get those epic wide shots with the two of you wrapped up in each other while the ocean stretches out behind you.

You get two totally different vibes (meadow + cliffside) in one session—and we don’t even have to rush it. It’s peaceful, quiet, and so worth the little walk.

Real Talk: Wind, Hair, and Those Little Worries

what to wear for discovery park photoshoot

One of my brides, Shea, had the most relatable concern before her session:

She was worried the wind would wreck her gorgeous natural curls.

But after seeing her sneak peeks? Here’s what she said:

“Omg!!! These are so stunning!! I am so amazed… We truly love them! 🥲😍 All my worries about the wind and my hair and necklace were put to rest as soon as I saw the first pics. They are GORGEOUS! You worked wonders! I can’t believe it’s only the sneak pics wow!! Yay!!”

Cue happy tears. 💛

So if you’re stressing about your hair, the wind, your outfit, or anything else—I’ve got you. I’ll help you prep, guide you during the shoot, and make sure you feel confident and cared for the whole time.

What to Wear for Discovery Park Engagement Photos

This location is made for outfits that move and flow. Here’s what works beautifully out here:

Neutral or earthy tones: think creams, sage green, terracotta, rust, or denim
Something flowy: dresses that catch the breeze look amazing on the cliffs
Layers: a cozy cardigan or jacket for variety and warmth
Comfy walking shoes: we’ll swap them for the cute shoes when we get to the good spots (bring a tote!)

I also recommend bringing two outfits—one casual and one slightly dressier. That way, your gallery has range, and you get to show off more of your style.

When to Go (AKA When the Light Is Chef’s Kiss)

Golden hour at Discovery Park is everything. The way the light filters through the fields and hits the cliffs? Unreal.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Late afternoon to sunset is prime time
Weekdays are ideal—fewer people, more space
Spring/Summer brings dreamy fields and clear skies
Fall gives you golden tones and cozy, romantic vibes

What to Bring + Expect

You don’t need much, but here’s what I recommend for the best experience:

A water bottle (hydrated = happy)
A tote with outfit pieces + shoes
A cozy blanket if you want to snuggle up for a few shots
Optional: a little champagne pop moment, a meaningful prop, or your pup (yep, dogs are welcome!)

And don’t stress if you’re camera shy—I’ve got you. I’ll guide you every step of the way. You’ll feel natural, look amazing, and probably forget we’re even taking photos. We’ll laugh, explore, and honestly just have a blast.

Ready for Your Discovery Park Moment?

If you’re dreaming of Discovery Park engagement photos that feel like a romantic escape right in the city, let’s make it happen. I know the route, I know the light, and I know how to make you feel like your best self in front of the camera.