During Javier & Mary’s Bok Tower engagement photos in Lake Wales, FL, we were reminded why we love the location as much as we do. When it comes to choosing the perfect location for an engagement session, we always encourage our couples to think about places that feel peaceful, meaningful, and true to them. Somewhere that doesn’t just look beautiful, but creates space to slow down, connect, and simply be together. That’s exactly why Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, Florida is one of our favorite places to photograph.
Bok Tower Gardens Lake Wales FL
From the moment you walk through the gates at Bok Tower Gardens, you’re surrounded by lush greenery, moss-draped oaks, and colorful blooms that change with the seasons. The iconic Singing Tower rises above the trees and creates a timeless, almost otherworldly experience. Especially when the carillon bells echo, it brings this sense of grandeur to your photos without ever feeling stuffy or overdone.
But what we love most about this location is the variety. Bok Tower Gardens has it all, from intimate garden nooks, sunlit pathways, wide open lawns, and peaceful ponds. Every turn gives you a new backdrop, which allows us to create a gallery that feels rich, warm, and full of texture. No two sessions ever feel or look the same!
A Fairytale Location for Florida Engagement Photos
Javier & Mary’s engagement session was captured at the very end of spring. The gardens were bursting with color! Everywhere we turned, we were met with vibrant blooms, golden light, and layers of soft greenery. Nature really showed off and it gave us so much to work with creatively.
We scheduled the shoot on a weekday just a few hours before the gardens closed. It turned out to be the perfect decision. The space was quiet and peaceful, almost like we had it all to ourselves. Without the usual crowds, we were able to wander freely, linger in our favorite spots, and truly take it all in with our couple. That quiet atmosphere gave us space to slow down and document the session in an intentional, unhurried way.
Relaxed Florida Engagement Photos
One of the things that made Javier & Mary’s session feel so magical is that we didn’t come in with a rigid plan. We let the gardens guide us. We followed the light, the laughter, the breeze and ended up creating some of our favorite images in spots we might have overlooked with a stricter agenda. It was a reminder of how powerful it can be to let go of expectations and just experience the moment. With no rushed timeline, our couple were able to be just two people in love, exploring something beautiful together. This session reminded us why we love what we do—creating honest, emotional images in places that let people breathe and just be.
Tips for Bok Tower Engagement Photos
1. Plan for Weather & Time of Day
Florida weather can be warm and humid, especially in spring and summer. Early morning or late afternoon sessions offer the best light (hello, golden hour!) and cooler temps.
2. Garden Admission & Parking
There is an entrance fee to Bok Tower Gardens (usually $15–$20 per person).
Parking is available onsite, but it’s smart to arrive early to grab a good spot and avoid peak crowds.
3. Permits and Rules
No special photography permits are required—just your regular admission.
Drones aren’t allowed, and it’s important to be respectful of other visitors in the gardens.
4. Scenic Variety
From the Singing Tower to hidden nooks like the rock garden, winding paths, and reflecting pools, there are so many beautiful places for portraits.
Springtime especially delivers with colorful blooms that add depth and texture to your photos.
5. Wardrobe & Props
Soft, neutral, or earthy tones look incredible in this natural setting.
Bring minimal props and let the environment do the work—there’s already so much beauty surrounding you.
6. Plan for Privacy
Even though it’s a public garden, there are many quiet areas for intimate moments. We always aim to find spots away from the crowds so your session feels relaxed and personal.
7. Allow Time to Explore
Plan for 2–3 hours if possible so you can wander and enjoy different spots without feeling rushed. Some locations take time to walk between, but it’s always worth it.
Engagement Photography Florida
We’re Rychelle and Aaron, a husband & wife, photographer and videographer duo serving Central Florida & beyond. We specialize in capturing soulful, candid moments in beautiful places just like Bok Tower Gardens. If you’re dreaming of a romantic, nature-filled session that’s equal parts relaxed and stunning, we’d love to help you plan the perfect engagement experience here. (Or your dream location in Central Florida!) Click here to inquire about our engagement session availability and packages. Let’s tell your love story in a setting that truly feels like a fairytale.
