Engagement Portraits at Rutgers Gardens: A Romantic Escape into Nature

Tucked away in the heart of New Brunswick, New Jersey, Rutgers Gardens is a hidden gem for couples looking to capture their engagement portraits in a setting filled with natural beauty, rustic charm, and serene backdrops. As one of the most enchanting botanical gardens in the region, it offers a peaceful, romantic escape that feels worlds away from the hustle of everyday life — making it the perfect location to celebrate your love story.

Rutgers Gardens is not your typical park. It's a carefully curated oasis of blooming gardens, quiet woodland paths, open meadows, and unique structures that all come together to create a magical, ever-changing backdrop. Each area of the gardens has its own personality, giving couples a variety of stunning settings in one location.

Some favorite spots for portraits include:

The Bamboo Grove – a tranquil, cinematic space that feels both wild and intimate
The Roy H. DeBoer Evergreen Garden – filled with texture, shade, and beautiful symmetry
The Log Cabin and Pond – rustic charm paired with water reflections and open skies
The Flowering Perennial Garden – vibrant blooms that change with the seasons

Whether you're drawn to nature trails or whimsical garden paths, Rutgers Gardens offers versatility and natural elegance — perfect for every couple's style.

Photographing love stories in nature requires both creativity and intuition, and Iryna Shostak brings both in abundance. With years of experience in luxury engagement and wedding photography, Iryna knows how to find the perfect light, guide couples effortlessly, and highlight the authentic connection between two people.

Her calm, artistic approach makes sessions feel easy and natural, allowing her to capture those fleeting, in-between moments that often become the most cherished. With Rutgers Gardens as her canvas, Iryna creates soft, romantic, and timeless images that reflect both your love and the surrounding beauty.

Tips for Your Engagement Session at Rutgers Gardens

To make the most of your portrait experience, consider the following tips:

Timing is Everything: The best light is during golden hour — just after sunrise or just before sunset. Not only is the light soft and flattering, but the gardens are quieter too.
Dress the Part: Neutral tones, soft fabrics, and flowy silhouettes work beautifully in natural settings. Consider a romantic dress for her and a classic, comfortable look for him to keep the mood cohesive.
Make It a Date: Bring a picnic blanket, a bottle of wine, or your favorite book to create a lifestyle vibe for part of the shoot. It adds a personal, candid feel to the gallery.
Embrace the Elements: Weather and nature are part of the charm. Don’t worry about a little breeze or the crunch of leaves underfoot — it all adds to the storytelling.

Engagement portraits are more than just a photo session — they’re a celebration of your journey together. Rutgers Gardens provides a dreamy, earthy, and romantic environment where love feels at home and your story can unfold naturally.

With Iryna Shostak’s creative vision and the gardens’ breathtaking scenery, you’ll walk away with more than just photos. You’ll have a timeless visual legacy that captures the essence of your relationship in one of New Jersey’s most picturesque locations.