If you’ve ever dreamed of European-inspired engagement photos—think columns, manicured gardens, fountains, and that timeless old-world romance—but you don’t exactly want to hop on a plane… Hills & Dales Estate in LaGrange, Georgia, is the spot.
When Catalina and Carlos started planning their engagement session, Catalina sent over their Pinterest board ahead of time, and it was full of lush greenery, grand architecture, and elegant European vibes. The only catch? We were shooting in Georgia—not Italy. So the goal was finding a location that gave them that same elevated, romantic look… without needing a passport.
And Hills & Dales Estate delivered perfectly.
Why Hills & Dales Estate is Perfect for Engagement Photos
Hills & Dales Estate is one of those locations where you truly get so much variety in a single session. It has that rare mix of:
- Grand, formal estate backdrops (hello columns + editorial vibes)
- Manicured gardens that feel timeless and romantic
- Greenery everywhere (even in late fall)
- Fountains, pathways, benches, and hidden little corners
- A dreamy, “you could’ve taken this in Europe” look… but in LaGrange, GA
There are honestly no bad angles here. It’s one of those places where every direction you turn looks like it belongs in a magazine.
The Best Time of Day to Shoot at Hills & Dales
Catalina and Carlos’ session was in November, which means sunset comes earlier and golden hour hits fast. We scheduled their engagement session for 3:00–5:00 PM, and it was the perfect window to get:
- bright, glowy sunlight at the start
- golden hour warmth toward the end
- a little bit of everything without feeling rushed
If you’re planning a fall or winter session here, I highly recommend building your time around sunset so you don’t miss the best light.
How Much Time You Need at Hills & Dales Estate
Hills & Dales Estate is ginormous (like… truly massive). They recommend two hours, and I completely agree—especially if you want your gallery to feel full, varied, and high-end.
Two hours is the sweet spot because you can:
- explore multiple areas of the estate + gardens
- move at a relaxed pace
- have time to relax and have fun
- and even fit in two outfits comfortably
Catalina and Carlos had two looks, but we had time for a full first outfit, a quick change, and then a whole second round of photos in a totally different vibe.
Parking + Tram Info (Important!)
One thing to know before you arrive: the parking lot is NOT right beside the estate.
Here’s what to plan for:
- you’ll park first and check in at the visitor center
- then you’ll hop on a tram for a quick 3-5 minute ride to the estate
- when your session ends, you’ll take the tram back
The biggest tip: give yourself extra time at the end.
The last tram ride back to the parking lot is about 15 minutes before closing, so you don’t want to cut it close.
I always tell my couples: arrive a little early so we can start on time without stress.
What to Wear for Engagement Photos at Hills & Dales Estate
This location naturally gives elegant + romantic + editorial vibes, so outfits that match that energy photograph beautifully.
Catalina and Carlos leaned into a more elevated look:
- Catalina wore dresses for both outfits
- Carlos wore slacks + a top for one look
- and a full suit for the second look
You can do something more casual here, especially if you want your session to feel softer and more relaxed on the grounds—but if you want that full “European estate” effect, dressing up is always the move.
Favorite Photo Spots at Hills & Dales Estate
We truly did SO much during this engagement session:
- the front entrance where the tram drops you off
- walking paths throughout the gardens
- the greenhouse (so fun + playful, with plants growing everywhere)
- the maze-style garden area (perfect for movement + laughter)
- benches tucked throughout the property
- editorial portraits right up near the estate
- the side porch area with the stone railing
- fountains… everywhere
The best part? Even in two hours, you still feel like you’ve only scratched the surface—which is exactly why this location is such a dream if you want variety in your engagement photos.
The Overall Vibe: Romantic, Elegant, Timeless
If you want engagement photos that feel:
- romantic
- elegant
- polished but still joyful
- full of variety
- and straight out of a European garden
Hills & Dales Estate is one of the best engagement session locations in Georgia, and Catalina and Carlos were the perfect couple for it.
Sound like the spot for you? I would love to capture your engagement session at Hills & Dales Estate! Let’s chat!
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