As engagement and wedding photographers, we absolutely love to capture every chapter of a couple’s love story. From proposals to post-wedding sessions, we’re here for it all. There are so many gorgeous spots for couples to have a Hudson Valley mini-moon. Whether you’re getting married in the city or just staying in the Catskills, there are tons of lovely places. It’s so important to document these memories with a photo shoot after your big day.

Why Have a Hudson Valley Mini-Moon Photo Shoot

First and foremost, that newlywed glow just hits different. After your celebration is over, you can finally unwind and have a relaxing week. Tons of couples who get married in New York City and Brooklyn will end up heading to the Catskills or Hudson Valley for a mini-moon. It’s a great idea to add a photography session into your itinerary to capture these first few days of your married life.

When Should You Take Mini-Moon Photos?

Whenever you book your mini-moon, add a photo session for a fun activity. You should take them a few days into your romantic getaway so you have some time to unwind after the event. Let yourselves enjoy sleep, peace and quiet for a few days before showing up rested. We love to have couples reach out ahead of their trip to book their photo shoot in the Hudson Valley.

What to Wear for Your Post-Wedding Photography Session

It’s totally up to you what to wear when it comes to your post-wedding photos. You might want to consider bringing an outfit from your rehearsal dinner or afterparty. You may also have had a reception outfit change you’ll want to get some more photos in. Alternatively, you could get all comfy and just take some nice hiking photos without the pressure of fancy outfits.

Get Creative with Post-Wedding Photos at Storm King Art Center

Explore an outdoor sculpture park featuring modern art sculptures set against a natural backdrop. Storm King’s expansive grounds offer a variety of artistic and scenic photo opportunities. It’s a great spot for capturing the blend of art and nature during your mini-moon. Be sure to submit a request for a permit ahead of time to get the most out of your experience. Stay at the Beacon Hermitage or the Bird & Bottle Inn for a lovely post-wedding experience in the area.

Meander Around at Walkway Over the Hudson for Your Session

This iconic pedestrian bridge provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Hudson River and the surrounding landscapes. Whether you visit during the day or at sunrise/sunset, you can capture the natural beauty of the region from this unique vantage point. It’s a must-visit location for couples seeking scenic shots. Head to Walkway Over the Hudson if you’re mini-mooning at the Roundhouse, the Journey Inn Bed & Breakfast, or The Wick.

Have Your Hudson Valley Mini-Moon at Mohonk Mountain House

This historic resort, nestled in the Shawangunk Mountains, boasts Victorian-era architecture and stunning lake views. You can capture the charm of the resort’s design and the serenity of its natural surroundings. It’s a location that combines architectural elegance with natural beauty for your mini-moon photos. Mohonk Mountain House has private trails that make for stunning images.

Take a Vineyard Tour for Your Mini-Moon Photo Shoot

Discover the romance of Hudson Valley wineries with a vineyard tour. Lush grapevines and charming settings make for lovely photo backdrops. You can capture the essence of wine country and enjoy a romantic atmosphere during your mini-moon shoot. Some great spots to start are Millbrook Vineyards, City Winery Hudson Valley, Red Maple Vineyards, and Brotherhood Winery.

Hudson Valley Mini-Moon Photo Shoots at Little Stony Point Park

A charming spot with a stunning view, this easy hike makes for incredible Hudson Valley mini-moon photos. Whether you’ve grabbed a bed & breakfast in Cold Spring, or one of Beacon’s boutique hotels, this is a great spot for outdoor activities. On your romantic getaway, be sure to have a mini-moon photo session with one of the best views in the region at Little Stony Point Park. This area is surrounded by quaint towns you’ll be sure to enjoy on your post-wedding weekend.

Bring the Romance at Bear Mountain State Park

Hike up to Perkins Memorial Tower for stunning panoramic views of the Hudson Valley. The tower itself and the surrounding parkland offer a range of photo opportunities, especially when the foliage turns vibrant in the fall. It’s a versatile location for capturing the natural beauty of the region. Bear Mountain has tons of great spots for post-wedding photo shoots in the Hudson Valley. There are also great spots to stay like the Bear Mountain Inn, the Stone Cottages, or head to the Abbey Inn & Spa in Peekskill.

Hike for Your Post-Wedding Photography at Kaaterskill Falls

Located in the Catskill Mountains, Kaaterskill Falls is one of New York’s most famous waterfalls. Its two-tiered cascade surrounded by dense forest provides a natural and enchanting backdrop for your photos. It’s particularly photogenic during the spring when the waterfall flows at its fullest. For couples who are down for a more challenging hike, this is so worth it to get some gorgeous shots. Some great nearby accommodations include Hotel Mountain Brook, A Tiny House Resort, or experience a true escape at Piaule Catskill.

Walk Around and Take Photos in a Charming Hudson River Town

Explore charming towns along the Hudson River known for their historic architecture, scenic waterfronts, and vibrant communities. Whether you’re in Hudson, Cold Spring, or Beacon, you’ll find diverse backdrops for your mini-moon photos, showcasing the region’s small-town charm. There are so many gorgeous places on the main streets of this region to take great couples portraits.

Take in the Gorgeous Sunset at Lake Minnewaska

A short hike to Lake Minnewaska in the Shawangunk Mountains leads you to a stunning mountain lake surrounded by rocky cliffs and forests. The golden hour at sunset creates a warm and tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal time to capture the serene beauty of this alpine setting in your photos. Stay at the Minnewaska Lodge for a cozy experience, or the Buttermilk Falls Inn & Spa for some relaxation.

Experience Culinary Bliss (and Beautiful Grounds) Blue Hill at Stone Barns

Wander the grounds of this beautiful property for your Hudson Valley mini-moon photo session. This is great for couples who want to indulge in Michelin-starred dining and see the beauty of the region. They do require a photography permit for sessions, so do be sure to secure this ahead of time. Blue Hill at Stone Barns is one of the most exceptional culinary experiences and beautiful photo spots outside of the city.

Head to the Waterfront by the Tarrytown Lighthouse

Located near Sleepy Hollow, this charming lighthouse on the Hudson River offers a maritime-inspired setting. Whether you choose to photograph it against the river backdrop or during sunrise or sunset, you can create timeless and romantic images during your mini-moon. This is great for couples staying at Tarrytown House Estate or the Castle Hotel & Spa.

Have a Peaceful Photo Session at Black Creek Preserve

Located along the Wallkill River, this nature preserve offers a tranquil riverside setting with walking trails. It’s an ideal location to capture the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley, with opportunities to photograph forests and waterways during your mini-moon. Head to Black Creek Preserve for some gorgeous, calm Hudson Valley mini-moon pictures. You’ll want to stay at a serene spot like Hutton Brickyards or the Woodstock Way Hotel when planning your getaway.

Enjoy Harvest Season at Local Farms in the Hudson Valley

During the harvest season, Hudson Valley farms burst with colorful produce. Visiting a local farm at this time allows you to capture vibrant, farm-to-table-inspired photos. It’s an opportunity to showcase the region’s agricultural abundance during your mini-moon shoot. Some sweet spots include Stuart’s Fruit Farm, Jenkins-Lueken Orchard, and Lawrence Farms Orchard. Be sure to check out their permits and restrictions before you book your session.

Choose a Moody Bar or Tavern to Take Some Mini-Moon Photos

There are so many bars, breweries, taverns, dives – you name it – in the Hudson Valley. Be sure to reach out ahead of time to book your post-wedding photo session. These can be great for fun, candid photos. You can even wear your rehearsal dinner or afterparty outfit to continue the party. Some gorgeous spots include Wonderbar Beacon, Hudson Valley Brewery, and Reserva Wine Bar.

Book Your Hudson Valley Mini-Moon Photography Session

As wedding photographers serving everyone from the Catskills to Westchester, we know how important documenting this new chapter is. When you plan your Hudson Valley mini-moon, be sure to include a photo shoot in the itinerary. Document the newlywed glow and capture these priceless moments. This post-wedding moment is one you won’t want to forget. Reach out to book your session today.