The Best Places to Take Wedding Photos Around Stonegate Glass Chapel
One of my favorite things about photographing weddings at Stonegate is that you don't have to leave the property to get an incredibly diverse gallery.
Within just a few minutes' walk, you can capture elegant indoor portraits, romantic wooded images, wide scenic views, and everything in between. If you're planning your wedding at Stonegate, here are a few of my favorite portrait locations around the property.
Inside the Chapel
Let's start with the obvious one.
The chapel itself is stunning, and it's the reason so many couples fall in love with Stonegate in the first place. The natural light that fills the space throughout the day is beautiful for portraits.
Most couples immediately think of the stage, and for good reason. It's a classic spot for portraits and family photos.
But if you ask me, two of the most underrated locations inside the chapel are the ledges and the benches.
The lighting in these areas is incredibly soft, and they create a more intimate feel than some of the wider chapel shots. They're perfect for quiet bride and groom portraits or those in-between moments that end up being favorites.
In Front of the Chapel
Another obvious choice... but one we definitely can't skip.
The front of the chapel is one of the most iconic views on the property. Whether we're photographing the full wedding party or just the two of you, it's a must-have image in every Stonegate gallery.
It's timeless, elegant, and instantly recognizable.
The Courtyard
Just outside the chapel is one of the sweetest little portrait locations on the property.
The courtyard has a cozy, tucked-away feel that's perfect for bride and groom portraits. It's one of those spots where couples can slow down for a few quiet moments together while we capture some more intimate images.
It's close by, easy to access, and photographs beautifully throughout the day.
The Swing
If you've seen many Stonegate galleries, you've probably noticed the swing.
It's become a favorite for a reason.
It creates playful, relaxed portraits that feel a little different from the more formal wedding photos. Some couples choose to use it for portraits together, while others love taking a few photos individually before the ceremony.
Either way, it's always worth a stop.
The Back Porch
The back porch often gets overlooked, but it has some of the prettiest light on the property.
It's a wonderful spot for portraits when you want something a little more secluded, and it works beautifully during every season.
Sometimes the simplest locations end up producing some of my favorite images.
The Path
The walking path gives us a completely different look from the chapel itself.
It naturally draws your eye into the photo and creates beautiful depth, especially during spring and fall.
Whether you're walking hand-in-hand or simply taking a quiet stroll together, these photos always feel natural and relaxed.
The Top of the Hill
If you've been here before, you know exactly what I'm talking about.
The top of the hill consistently has some of the best light on the property.
It's one of my favorite places to photograph couples because it gives us beautiful open light while still keeping the natural scenery that makes Stonegate so special.
If the timeline allows, I almost always try to sneak up there for a few portraits.
The Country Road
This one technically isn't on the venue property, but it's close enough that it's almost always worth the quick trip.
Just across the road from Stonegate is one of my favorite portrait locations. The wide open skies, rolling hills, and lush Missouri landscape create a completely different look than the wooded areas around the chapel.
Especially around sunset, the light out there is absolutely incredible. If your timeline allows for a few extra minutes, these portraits often become some of my favorites from the entire wedding day.
Every Wedding Gallery Is Different
One of the things I love most about Stonegate is that no two galleries ever look exactly alike.
The season changes.
The light changes.
The weather changes.
Every couple brings their own personality.
Those little differences mean that even though we're photographing in many of the same locations, every wedding still feels unique.
And that's exactly how it should be.