Skylands Manor Botanical Gardens Engagement session with Zack & Francesca

When Francesca first reached out about their engagement session, I was so excited to hear that she and Zack had chosen Skylands Manor Botanical Gardens for their photos! Nestled in Ringwood, NJ, this stunning garden and castle estate is one of the most beautiful and versatile photo locations in North Jersey—and the closest upscale option for couples in Sussex County looking for breathtaking backdrops without the long drive.

I’ve had the pleasure of working with this sweet couple before—sort of! A couple of years ago, I photographed Zack’s cousin’s wedding at Mountain Creek, so it was such a joy to reconnect with the family and get to know Zack and Francesca better ahead of their wedding next May at Stonewall Estate in The Catskills.

Skylands Manor Botanical Gardens Spring Engagement Session.

Zack and Francesca chose a spring date for their session, and although we were met with a cold and windy afternoon, they completely embraced the elements. Francesca looked effortlessly beautiful as her dress flowed in the breeze, and Zack kept her laughing and warm the entire time. Their chemistry made the session feel like a breeze – no pun intended- and the love between them brought a warmth to the day that even the chilly wind couldn’t dim.

Skylands Manor is truly magical in every season, but spring might just be my favorite. The gardens are bursting with blooms, daffodils, cherry blossoms, and more which gave us vibrant pops of color and dreamy textures for their portraits. The estate’s European-inspired architecture, winding stone paths, and sprawling lawns all added a timeless elegance to their photos, even as the wind added an element of movement and spontaneity.

Why Skylands Manor Botanical Gardens is a Dream Spring Engagement Pictures Location

Skylands Manor, located within the New Jersey Botanical Gardens, is the premier photo location for North Jersey couples dreaming of something upscale and elegant without a long drive and traffic to contend with. Just over the border from Sussex County, it’s accessible, yet it feels like stepping into a fairy tale. With a castle-like stone mansion, formal gardens, and wooded walking paths, it’s an incredible setting for engagement sessions, maternity shoots, or any milestone worth documenting beautifully.

Something important to note for couples considering this location—a photography permit is required to shoot at Skylands Manor. But don’t worry, I take care of all of that for you! Permit fees and the process of securing your session time are included in my engagement sessions, so you don’t have to stress. You just show up ready to cuddle, laugh, and have a great time.

Skylands is beautiful year-round, but it truly shines in the spring, summer, and fall. In spring, you’ll get flowering trees and bright gardens like we did for Zack and Francesca’s session. In summer, everything is lush and vibrant, with full green foliage and golden evening light. And the colors in fall are just stunning with deep reds, oranges, and yellows surrounding the castle and trails.

A Comfortable, Fun, and True-to-Life Photography Experience

My goal for every session is to create an environment where you feel totally at ease. Whether it’s windy, chilly, or unexpectedly warm, I’ll guide you through the session with gentle direction and tons of encouragement. I want you to look at your photos and see you, natural connection, real emotion, and colors that feel true to life.

My editing style is clean, bright, and timeless, perfect for couples like Zack and Francesca who want a classic look that won’t go out of style. We had so much fun during their session laughing through the wind, exploring the garden paths, and capturing all the little moments between poses that made their love story come to life on camera.

Booking Your Own Engagement Session

If you’re recently engaged (congratulations!) and dreaming about where to take your engagement photos, Skylands Manor Botanical Gardens is a location I highly recommend. It’s close to Sussex County and Northern NJ, and it offers that wow-factor you want in your photos, whether you’re planning a wedding at a modern venue or a rustic estate like Stonewall.

I’m currently booking weddings for 2026 for couples across New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, with a specialty in natural, emotional, and joy-filled photography that captures real connection in a beautiful way.

Whether you’re planning a garden engagement, a cozy in-home session, or a mountain-top elopement, I’d love to hear your story and help you plan a session that feels uniquely you.

Let’s make something beautiful together. Reach out to book your engagement session or secure your wedding date today with Ashley of Renee Ash Photography.

Planning a wedding at Skylands Manor Botanical Gardens or The Castle at Skylands Manor? Check out these tips!