Planning a wedding or elopement in Forsyth Park?
Whether you're exchanging vows beneath Savannah's famous live oaks or simply dreaming of romantic wedding portraits by the historic fountain, Forsyth Park is one of the most beautiful places to celebrate your love.
As a Savannah wedding photographer, I've had the privilege of photographing couples throughout this iconic park and its surrounding historic streets. This guide brings together everything I've learned—from the best photo locations and ideal lighting to practical planning tips that will help you make the most of your wedding day.
Whether you're just beginning to plan or your wedding is right around the corner, I hope this guide answers your questions and inspires you to create a day that's uniquely yours.
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Why Couples Love Forsyth Park
Forsyth Park is one of the most iconic places for wedding and elopement photography in Savannah, Georgia—and for good reason. Whether you're planning an intimate ceremony, exchanging vows with just the two of you, or simply celebrating with wedding portraits afterward, the park offers an incredible variety of backdrops. One of my favorite things about Forsyth Park is the incredible variety it offers. Within just a short walk, your gallery can include iconic fountain portraits, romantic oak-lined paths, colorful gardens, and elegant historic streets. Every location has its own character, giving your wedding gallery a timeless, diverse feel without ever feeling repetitive.
The Historic Fountain
The famous Forsyth Park Fountain is one of Savannah's most recognizable landmarks. Its cascading water and intricate design create a timeless backdrop for wedding portraits—even if it was originally ordered from a catalog. 😉 Now beautifully restored, it's even more stunning in person. Because the fountain is so large, it's often possible to compose beautiful portraits without other visitors appearing in your photos.
The Oaks & Spanish Moss
If you're dreaming of classic Savannah charm, the oak-lined walkways and draping Spanish moss are hard to beat. They create a naturally romantic setting that's beautiful year-round and instantly gives your photographs that unmistakable Southern feel.
Beautiful Color in Every Season
Forsyth Park offers something special throughout the year. In March and April, the azaleas burst into vibrant shades of pink, white, and purple. Southern magnolias bloom from late spring into mid-summer with their iconic white flowers, while camellias bring beautiful color from fall through early February. No matter the season, there's almost always something in bloom to add texture and color to your portraits.
Easy to Access
Whether you're driving, biking, walking, or using public transportation, Forsyth Park is one of the most accessible locations in Savannah. Parking is available nearby, making it convenient for couples and guests alike.
Historic Savannah All Around You
The beauty doesn't stop at the edge of the park. Just steps away, Savannah's historic streets offer an entirely different backdrop for your wedding portraits. From brick sidewalks and wrought-iron railings to stately historic homes, we can move seamlessly from the park's lush greenery to the timeless elegance of the Historic District—all within a short walk. The result is a wedding gallery filled with incredible variety that truly captures the beauty and character of Savannah.
Best Places for Wedding Photos in Forsyth Park
One of the things that makes Forsyth Park so special is the incredible variety of backdrops within just a few minutes' walk. You don't have to travel across Savannah to create a diverse wedding gallery—it's all right here.
The Forsyth Park Fountain
No visit to Forsyth Park is complete without stopping at Savannah's most iconic landmark. The historic fountain creates timeless, elegant portraits that immediately say "Savannah." Whether you're sharing a quiet moment together, celebrating just after your ceremony, or capturing a dramatic sunset portrait, the fountain offers countless opportunities for beautiful photographs. Because of its size, it's often possible to compose stunning images while minimizing other visitors in the background.
The Oak Canopy & Spanish Moss
The majestic live oaks surrounding the park create one of Savannah's most recognizable landscapes. Their sweeping branches and delicate Spanish moss provide soft, romantic light and an unmistakable Southern atmosphere. This area is perfect for candid moments, walking portraits, and intimate photographs that feel relaxed and natural.
Garden Paths & Seasonal Blooms
The winding walkways and landscaped gardens add texture, color, and variety to your gallery. Throughout the year, blooming flowers, lush greenery, and carefully maintained gardens provide beautiful accents without distracting from the couple. Every season offers something unique, making this one of my favorite areas to create timeless portraits.
Jones Street & Historic Savannah
Just a few blocks beyond the park you'll find one of the most beautiful streets in America. Jones Street's historic brick homes, wrought-iron railings, ivy-covered walls, and towering oak trees create an entirely different look from the park itself. Within just a few blocks, we can transition from lush gardens to elegant historic architecture, giving you a wedding gallery that captures the true charm and character of Savannah.
Best Time of Day for Wedding Photos in Forsyth Park
One of the questions I get asked most often is, "What time should we schedule our photos?" While beautiful photographs can be created throughout the day, the lighting—and the atmosphere of the park—changes dramatically depending on the time.
Sunrise
If you're looking for the most peaceful experience, sunrise is hard to beat. The park is quiet and you'll often have many of the most popular locations almost entirely to yourselves. The soft morning light is flattering and creates a calm, romantic feel that's perfect for intimate elopements and portraits. Keep in mind that Savannah mornings—especially during the warmer months—can also be the most humid. If you're planning a summer sunrise session, it's worth considering how the weather may affect hair, makeup, and comfort.
Golden Hour
The hour before sunset is a favorite for a reason. Warm, golden light filters through the live oaks and Spanish moss, creating soft, glowing portraits with beautiful depth and color. If your schedule allows, golden hour is one of the most flattering times of day for wedding photography.
Midday Sessions
Midday light is brighter and more direct, but don't let that discourage you if that's when your ceremony is scheduled. Throughout Forsyth Park there are beautiful pockets of open shade beneath the oak trees, allowing us to create timeless portraits while avoiding the harshest light. With a little planning, midday can still produce a stunning gallery.
Crowds & Tourist Traffic
Forsyth Park is one of Savannah's most popular destinations, especially on weekends, holidays, and during festivals. Early mornings generally offer the fewest crowds, while late afternoons tend to be busier. Fortunately, the park is large enough that we can often find quieter areas and compose photographs that feel intimate, even on a busy day!
Planning a Forsyth Park Elopement
One of the reasons couples love choosing Forsyth Park for their elopement is how simple and relaxed the experience can be. A little planning goes a long way toward creating a stress-free day and beautiful photographs.
Guest Considerations
Forsyth Park is perfect for intimate ceremonies with just the two of you or a small group of family and friends. If you're inviting guests, consider choosing a location within the park that offers enough space while still allowing other visitors to enjoy the area. Keep in mind that the park remains open to the public, so you may have curious onlookers during busier times.
Parking & Getting Around
Parking is available on the streets surrounding Forsyth Park, though spaces can fill quickly on weekends and during special events. Arriving a little early gives everyone time to park, relax, and enjoy the moment before your ceremony begins. One of the best things about the park is that most of the iconic photo locations are within an easy walking distance of one another.
Celebrate Afterward
One of the perks of getting married in Forsyth Park is that you're only minutes away from many of Savannah's incredible restaurants. Whether you're planning an intimate dinner for two or celebrating with family and friends, you'll find everything from elegant fine dining to cozy local favorites just a short walk or drive away in the Historic District.
Savannah Weather
Savannah's weather is part of its charm—but it's also something to plan for. Summers can be warm and humid, while afternoon showers are always a possibility, especially during the warmer months. Spring and fall are popular seasons thanks to their comfortable temperatures and beautiful blooms. No matter the forecast, having a flexible attitude (and perhaps a clear umbrella tucked away just in case!) helps keep the day relaxed and enjoyable.
A Few Final Tips
Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore several locations around the park, and consider bringing a small bag with water, blotting papers, or a towel during the warmer months. Most importantly, don't worry about creating a perfect timeline. Your wedding day should feel relaxed and joyful, and I'll help guide you through the experience so you can focus on celebrating each other.
Feeling Comfortable in Front of the Camera
If you're worried about feeling awkward in front of the camera, you're in good company. In fact, it's probably the number one thing couples tell me before their session.
Here's the good news—you don't need to know how to pose.
Rather than placing you in stiff, uncomfortable positions, I'll guide you through natural movement and simple prompts that help you focus on each other instead of the camera. We'll walk, laugh, talk, and enjoy the moment together. Before long, you'll forget the camera is even there.
Some of my favorite photographs happen in between the "poses"—the genuine smiles, quiet glances, and spontaneous laughter that can't be staged. My goal is to create images that feel authentic to your relationship, so years from now you'll remember how your wedding day felt, not just how it looked.
One recommendation I always have for my couples is to schedule an engagement session before the wedding, if possible. It gives us the chance to get to know each other, explore what feels most natural for you, and build confidence in front of the camera. By your wedding day, posing won't even be on your mind—you'll simply be enjoying each other, and I'll take care of the rest.
Preparing for Your Forsyth Park Wedding Photos
A little preparation goes a long way toward making your wedding day feel relaxed and can make your portrait session more enjoyable as well as help your wedding photos look their very best.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Forsyth Park is easy to explore, with paved walkways connecting many of its most beautiful spots; however, some of the most romantic photo locations are just off the paths beneath the live oaks or on the grassy lawns. If you're wearing dress shoes or five-inch heels, consider bringing a comfortable pair of walking shoes. You can easily change into your wedding shoes when it's time for portraits
Coordinate Your Wedding Party
If family members or a small wedding party will be joining you, choosing complementary colors rather than identical outfits creates a timeless, elegant look. Soft, muted colors tend to photograph beautifully against Savannah's greenery, historic architecture, and the white Forsyth fountain.
An Essentials Bag
Ask a family member or friend to carry a small bag with a few necessities while we're taking photos. A little planning can save a lot of stress! Some helpful items include:
- Your marriage license (if you'll be signing it that day)
- Lipstick or makeup for quick touch-ups
- Hairpins or a small comb
- Blotting papers or a handkerchief, especially during Savannah's warmer months
- A bottle of water
- Small battery-powered fan
- A beautiful ring box for your wedding bands A velvet, leather, or wooden ring box not only keeps your rings safe but also adds an elegant touch to your detail photographs.
Your Bouquet
If you're carrying fresh flowers, try to keep your bouquet in water for as long as possible before the ceremony or portrait session. Especially during Savannah's warmer months, this helps your flowers stay fresh and vibrant for your photographs.
A Coordinating Umbrella
Savannah weather can change quickly, and a little rain doesn't have to put a damper on your wedding day. A high-quality umbrella in a color that complements your wedding palette—such as white, ivory, clear, black, or even one of your wedding colors—can be both practical and surprisingly beautiful in photographs. It also provides welcome shade on sunny days while you're walking between locations. We always hope it doesn’t rain, but even if Mother Nature decides to join the celebration, we can create something beautiful!
Think About the Season
Savannah's seasons each bring their own charm. Lightweight fabrics can make summer weddings much more comfortable, while wraps or jackets are a good idea during the cooler winter months. If you're getting married in spring, you'll often have colorful azaleas as part of your backdrop, while fall and winter can bring beautiful camellia blooms.
Don't Stress About Getting a Little Adventurous
Some of the most beautiful portraits happen when we're willing to step just off the sidewalk or explore a quiet corner of the park. Don't worry—we'll guide you to the best locations while helping you keep your attire looking its best along the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you get married in Forsyth Park?
Yes! Forsyth Park is a beautiful location for intimate weddings and elopements. Whether you're planning a simple ceremony for just the two of you or inviting a small group of family and friends, the park offers a variety of picturesque settings for exchanging vows and celebrating afterward with portraits.
Do you need a permit?
Permit requirements can vary depending on the size of your ceremony, the location within the park, and whether chairs, arches, or other equipment will be used. Generally if your party is under 50 people and does not require setup (chairs, talbes, etc.) no permit is necessary. Before making plans, it's always a good idea to check with the City of Savannah to confirm the current requirements for your specific ceremony. You can check out the City of Savannah website here for detailed information.
How long should wedding or elopement portraits take?
Most couples find that 60 to 90 minutes provides plenty of time to explore several beautiful locations throughout Forsyth Park while still enjoying the rest of their wedding day. If you're planning an engagement session or a larger wedding party, you may want to allow additional time.
What happens if it rains?
A little rain doesn't have to ruin your wedding day! Savannah weather can be unpredictable, but light rain often creates some of the most romantic photographs. Bringing a beautiful umbrella and having a flexible attitude can go a long way. If severe weather is expected, we'll work together to adjust the timing or location whenever possible.
Is sunrise or sunset better?
Both offer something unique. Sunrise provides a quieter park with fewer visitors, while sunset brings warm, golden light that many couples love. The best choice depends on the season, your wedding timeline, and the look you're hoping to achieve. No matter what time you choose, I'll help you make the most of the available light and create beautiful, timeless photographs.
Can we visit more than one location during our portrait session?
Absolutely! One of the biggest advantages of Forsyth Park is its location. Within just a few minutes, we can photograph beneath the live oaks, at the historic fountain, along the garden paths, and even venture onto nearby Jones Street or other charming Historic District locations for a gallery with incredible variety.
Ready to Plan Your Forsyth Park Wedding?
Whether you're planning an intimate elopement or celebrating with family and friends, I'd love to help tell your story.
If you think Forsyth Park might be the perfect backdrop for your wedding day, let's start planning together.
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