Longwood Gardens boasts 24 distinct garden styles within the six "districts" that span throughout its nearly 200 acre footprint making it a photographer's dream.  It truly is a space that inspires imagination and creativity while allowing us to capture both the formal and more manicured look of the Main Fountain Gardens as well as the more natural, sweeping views and open fields of the Meadow and Forest districts.

Plantings throughout the gardens are changed seasonally during their five seasons - Spring Blooms, Festival of Fountains, Chrysanthemum Festival, Longwood Christmas and Winter Wonder.  With each thoughtfully planned change of season it makes Longwood a wonderful place to photograph all year long.  There truly is no down season for this space.  

As you explore the grounds, we will capture organic images that will grace your home for years to come.  These are the images that you and your family will treasure.



It's the day of your session and sunlight is streaming through the line of trees as you walk the delicate stone path and hear the sounds of water gently bubbling from the Italian inspired fountains.  You feel transported to another time walking hand in hand with your love.  A breeze gently whispers through the Pennsylvania garden and kisses your cheeks as you enjoy this moment with your loved one and the nature that surrounds you...

LONGWOOD GARDENS ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS - THE PERFECT Portrait Location

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The main fountain garden has been a centerpiece of the Longwood property for over 90 years but really hit its stride after its restoration in 2017.  Since that time it has become a sought after location for couples to capture its romantic splendor in their engagement photography.  The neutral colored stonework, delicate tree line, calming water features and European inspired architecture make it an unforgettable space.

MAIN FOUNTAIN GARDEN

While the fountain district is a focal point of the Longwood property, the Meadow & Forest cannot go overlooked.  This area of the property is a perfect contrast to the more architectural fountains.  It provides a stunning landscape of the Pennsylvania woods and gives a natural feel to the images.

THE MEADOW & FOREST

Longwood Gardens is the engagement session location that is continually changing, giving variety and beauty in every season.  Seasonal highlights include- cherry blossoms in the spring, changing leaves in the fall, fountain shows in the summer and a festival of Christmas lights in the winter.  Each season is more beautiful than the next!

SEASONAL SPLENDOR

longwood gardens HIGHLIGHTS

Do we need a permit?

Longwood Gardens is a space that has beauty all throughout the year.  Their gardens and special events change so frequently throughout the year that there really isn't a bad time to schedule a session.

Is there a time of year that is best for a session?

The short answer is yes.  Longwood Gardens has so much space.  One side of the property boasts unobstructed views of the Pennsylvania woods and has a more natural feel.  While the other side focuses on more manicured growth and architectural elements.  This juxtaposition between the two sides of the property allows for amazing variety within each photography session.

Are there sufficient grounds for portraits?

The gardens do require admission to enter and during their peak festivals they require timed tickets.  Samantha Jay Photography holds a Longwood Membership that will admit clients until the Longwood policy change in October of 2024

Do the gardens require admission?

A FEW OF OUR MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SHOOTING engagement photos at longwood gardens

FAQ

Beginning in October of 2024 the gardens will be enacting a new photography policy.  Longwood will be charging a $250 permit fee for a one hour photography session within the outdoor gardens in addition to your purchased ticket to access the gardens.   A member of Longwood's staff will accompany all photography sessions.

What are some other locations that have a similar feel to Longwood Gardens in our area?

Some other photography locations that are worth exploring if you love the feel of Longwood Gardens are Nemours Mansion and Estate and Gibraltar.  It is tough to match the splendor of the gardens at Longwood but there are some options that will be contendors if you are looking to avoid paying a permit fee for Longwood.

Can we bring a change of clothes to our session?

Longwood Gardens no longer allows their patrons to bring wardrobe changes in to the gardens.  They suggest that patrons come in the attire they wish to wear for their visit.  Due to this, Longwood sessions will only include one outfit.

Can we take photos in the indoor greenhouses?

Longwood Gardens does not allow photography in their indoor greenhouse spaces.  All photography must take place in their outdoor spaces (of which there are tons of options!)

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Hello!  I’m Samantha, and I’m a dedicated Philadelphia wedding photographer who is driven to create heirloom images that will live within your home for years to come. My mission is to tell the story of your life through powerful images that will stand the test of time.
After documenting over 300 couples throughout my 10+ years of photographing weddings, you can trust that I will bring out the best in you and your loved ones through my organic posing style, timeline planning assistance, and a keen eye for romantic, moment-driven photography.


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Whether you’re hoping to plan your engagement session at Longwood Gardens, somewhere in Pennsylvania, Delaware (or beyond!), we would love to be considered for your wedding photography. 

If you’re interested in working with us, the best way to reach us is by filling out the contact form below or sending an e-mail to samanthajayphoto@gmail.com with your wedding date and location. If you’ve filled out the form and haven’t heard from us in a few days, please email us directly.

WE WOULD LOVE TO BE A PART OF YOUR DAY!

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