Engagement Photography at Sunken Gardens, Highland Park – Jess & Noah

Every once in a while, a session comes along that feels like it was meant to happen — and Jess and Noah’s engagement shoot at the Sunken Gardens in Highland Park was exactly that kind of magic.

This last-minute session came together quickly, but the story behind it made the entire experience even more special. Noah and I have followed each other on Instagram for a while, though we had never actually met in person. Jess and I also follow each other, but I didn’t realize it was her until she recognized me the moment we arrived at Highland Park. It was one of those funny, small-world Rochester moments that instantly set the tone for a warm, relaxed evening.

What Jess didn’t know was that Noah had planned to surprise her with a proposal during the shoot. Even under the soft, overcast sky, the moment he dropped to one knee lit up the entire Sunken Gardens. Her reaction was pure joy — and from that point on, they couldn’t stop smiling at each other. Capturing their energy, their connection, and the emotion that followed was effortless.

The Sunken Gardens in Highland Park is always a stunning location for engagement photos, with its stone steps, lush greenery, and quiet, romantic corners. But on this day, the gardens felt especially intimate. The overcast light created a soft, even glow that made every frame feel timeless and full of depth.

If you’re searching for Rochester engagement photography inspiration — or considering the Sunken Gardens as your engagement photo location — this gallery is a perfect example of how beautiful, spontaneous, and meaningful a session can be. Whether you’re planning a surprise proposal or simply want authentic, candid engagement portraits, Highland Park continues to be one of the most iconic spots in Rochester, NY.