We get it. Sometimes you’re looking for *the* picture. Whether that’s for engagement photos, family shoots, or something to make your Instagram feed pop.

IMPORTANT: Many of these properties have guidelines surrounding photography, professional or otherwise. Before heading over, please consult with the properties beforehand.

Hidden Spring Lavender Farm (Skillman)

Peak bloom is mid-June through mid-July. Gorgeous lavender fields against their red barn make for an absolutely beautiful, picturesque photo. Don’t miss their alpacas while you’re on-site! For an extra fee, you can do a halter-training class with the alpacas.

*Professional photography is by reservation only.

AC Hotel and The Bradford (Bridgewater)

There is not one inch of this property that doesn’t make an amazing Instagram photo. Whether it’s the flowered walls in both the restaurant and hotel patio or the polished front desk, or the sleek hotel rooms to the intricate details of the cocktails, the flowered archway, and the hanging roses at The Bradford, you will absolutely find something aesthetically pleasing about this property. Once you go, we promise, you will come back for something else.

Rudolf van der Goot Rose Garden – Colonial Park (Somerset)

The Rose Garden is in PEAK BLOOM right now! It’s positively gorgeous with pops of color springing up thanks to over 3,000 roses from more than 325 varieties of roses. Visitors can enjoy the light scent of the roses throughout the garden and take a break from the summer heat in one of a handful of gazebos and shaded benches.

*Professional photographers must obtain a permit from Somerset County Park Commission before taking media at Colonial Park (and all Somerset County parks).

Downtown Somerville (Somerville)

There are a handful of murals in Downtown Somerville, all with their own unique story, whether that’s promoting love and positive vibes, murals created in dedication of individuals, or installations celebrating the locality of Somerville.

Bridgewater Commons (Bridgewater)

This ‘Let the Love Flow’ mural is oozing not only with love and positivity, but it makes for some great snaps too. We hope that when you’re out and about shopping, you will take a moment to check this one out! It’s located on the main level right near the Apple store.

Cross Estate Gardens (Bernardsville)

Part of the historic Jockey Hollow, this gorgeous garden is sure to delight visitors. In early May, you can check out the wisteria covered pergolas that pop through. A couple of weeks later in late May, you will see a fully bloomed rhododendron entrance. Beyond the entrance and pergola, you’ll find short trails and varieties of flowers. The scenery makes for positively gorgeous flowers – and photos!

Please refer to their photography policy before taking any engagement, wedding, maternity, or other photoshoots.

Peony’s Envy (Liberty Corner & Bernardsville)

It’s easy to see how the cover of our Destination Guide is so beautiful. Peony’s Envy has two locations, both just as beautiful as the other. Each year, the Cut Flower Fields are open until late May/early June in Liberty Corner, and the Display Gardens are open until early June. This is when the gardens are in full bloom. While the 2021 season has passed, this is definitely a location to keep on your radar  in the coming seasons!

The gardens at Peony’s Envy are open for professional photography during limited hours that must be reserved ahead of time. Please refer to their photography policy.