About the Park of Roses

Tucked inside Whetstone Park in the Clintonville neighborhood, the Columbus Park of Roses is one of the largest public rose gardens in the country.

The 13-acre park is home to roughly 11,000 rose specimens across 350 varieties. It has been a beloved Columbus landmark since it opened in June of 1953.

Admission is free, parking is available on-site, and the park is open from 7 a.m. to dusk year-round.

Why It Works So Well for Engagement Photos

Most engagement locations give you one or two solid backdrops. The Park of Roses gives you a dozen.

Within a single session, we can move from rows of vibrant blooms to shaded garden paths, architectural iron structures, open lawns, and golden light.

That variety means your gallery feels rich and layered, not repetitive.

Best Photography Spots at the Park of Roses

The Central Rose Garden

This is the heart of the park. When the roses are in full bloom, this section is absolutely breathtaking.

The Gazebos and Pergolas

They add architectural framing, natural shade, and a romantic vintage quality.

The Fountain

The central fountain works beautifully near golden hour when the light catches the water.

The Garden Paths and Tree Lines

Some of the most intimate moments happen on the quieter paths that wind through the park.

When to Book Your Session

Late May and June

This is peak bloom season. The roses are at their most vibrant and full.

July and August

The garden stays lush and green, with beautiful golden evening light.

September and October

The park takes on warm fall tones with rich afternoon light.

The Pro Tip

Book an evening session. Golden hour is when this location looks its best.

What to Wear

The natural environment of the Park of Roses pairs beautifully with clothing that feels intentional without being stiff.

Flowing dresses in soft tones work especially well here. Dusty pink, ivory, sage, warm rust, and deep burgundy all photograph beautifully.

What Your Session Will Feel Like

I am not going to have you pose stiffly in front of a rose bush and call it an engagement session.

What I do is create space for the two of you to just exist together. A slow walk. A quiet moment. A laugh that surprises you both.

My job is to pay attention, guide with care, and capture the in-between moments that feel true.

Columbus Couples, This Is Your Location

Whether you are newly engaged or already planning every detail, the Park of Roses continues to be one of the most beautiful engagement photo locations in Columbus.

It is accessible, beautiful, and full of variety, which means your gallery can feel completely your own.

The Person Behind The Camera

Hi, I'm Ahmed, the photographer behind Sassi Photo.

I believe engagement photos should be more than a task to check off before the wedding. They should preserve the connection, excitement, and energy you share during one of the most meaningful seasons of your life.

My approach combines artistic imagery, elegant direction, and genuine moments to create photographs that feel personal and true to who you are. Rather than forcing poses, I focus on helping couples feel comfortable, connected, and fully present with each other.

For couples who don't want basic photos but want art, my goal is simple: create images that feel beautiful today and become even more meaningful for future generations.

Let's Create Something Beautiful

Ready to Book Your Park of Roses Engagement Session?

Let's talk about your vision, your date, and what it looks like to work together.