Zach and Crysta’s egagement session was the perfect blend of love, bliss, photojournalism, and the all the nostalgic film vibes that anyone could want. It all took place in the southern hospitality streets of downtown Baton Rouge, LA.
Throughout the session we were sure to find all the best spots Baton Rouge had to offer. From rooftops with beautiful city scapes, to hotel bars, and a vintage pool hall scene, Zach and Crysta was sure to soak in the beauty of the city while sharing intimate moments with each other.
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The Shaw Center Rooftop
One of the places we photographed Zach and Crysta was on the rooftop and inside of The Shaw Center for the Arts. While it has some of the world’s most beautiful art, The Shaw center also hosts some of the most beautiful views in the city. The Rooftop offers a grand view of the famous Mississippi River and Huey P. Long Bridge, neighboring hotels and buildings. The inside of the Shaw Center has that minimal museum look that we all love as well. Looking to have your session there? You’ll have to schedule with them to set up your session.
The Streets of Downtown Baton Rouge
Downtown Baton Rogue has a very diverse downtown area that’s perfect for all looks. You can dress it up or down. From ally ways to, vintage vibes, and literally just the streets, you’re sure to find the perfect backdrop. One of our favorite parts about downtown Baton Rouge is it’s never too busy or filled with people during golden hour.
Downtown Hotels
Some of the coolest places in Downtown BR are the hotels. They’re filled with charm, cozy vibes, restaurants and other amenities that serve as the perfect place for photos. Zach and Crysta decided that we wanted to use the Hilton Baton Rouge Capital Center’s lobby and bar for some film and direct flash vibes for their engagements. It brought out all the Nostalgia we were looking for.
Parking Garages
Another gem about downtown are the plethora of parking garages. Most parking garages have an excellent view of the city and sky to make for a good photo. Also, the top of the garages are almost always vacant, so there’s not many cars or distractions in the background. It’s a good idea to get permission before using these parking garages.
Louisiana State Capitol
Perhaps one of the most iconic places Downtown is The Louisiana State Capitol. For Zach and Crysta’s engagement session we used the front steps leading into the building. We love the steps because there are so many of them and we can get couples to stand or sit; it’s very versatile. Thinking of using the capitol for photos? Consider calling to plan around crowds and events that art taking place there. Also, it’s a good practice to use the capitol outside of operating hours when there’s less traffic.
Clicks Billiards
We concluded Zach and Crysta’s engagement session at one of Baton Rouge’s coolest pool halls: Clicks Billiards. Zach and Crysta’s first date was at a pool hall so it was fitting for them to relive that moment for their session. Clicks is about 15 minutes away from downtown and is the perfect place for a good time. It’s probably uncommon for photo sessions but served as a good location for ours. The pool area has classic tables with iconic and vintage posters on the wall, all what we wanted for the session.
Planning Your Session
So when planning your session, don’t overlook Baton Rouge. Louisiana’s capital city is a hidden-in-plain-site gem for a couple or engagement session. The diverse culture, monuments, and downtown scene gives you options for different looks that’ll make your session stand out.
Remember that one of the most important aspects of planning your session is to ask for permission to take pictures before assuming it’s free and to the public.
Zach and Crysta’s engagement Baton Rouge, LA session was nothing short of amazing.
Vendors
Spray Tan: Tanne
Ring: Acadian Estates & Custom
Makeup: Beauty By Coco