Romantic Wedding & Engagement Photography at the New York State Capitol

A Timeless & Grand Experience

Note: Although the Capitol Building is open to the public, it is still first and foremost a government facility, which means it may be subject to sudden schedule changes, security protocols and other limitations that could affect your visit or photoshoot. Please read carefully and check the link provided below.

As you walk through a 70s minimalist styled concourse directly beneath the Albany Empire Plaza, the last thing you might expect at the far end of this corridor is to come across what looks like a beautiful castle.

Once you pass through security and take a short ride up the escalator you start seeing glimpses of what’s to come! The layout of the Capitol Building can be very confusing – so immediately upon exiting the escalator I recommend getting directions from the nearby reception desk or maybe asking for a map.

Ask for the “Million Dollar Staircase”! This is one of the many grand spots inside the building. Something straight out of a movie like the ‘Titanic’ when Rose meets Jack underneath the glass dome in the first class staircase. This setting is not understated by any means [and for good reason!] so I always recommend it to my couples planning engagement sessions or weddings who want a bold and regal feel to their photos.

Don’t be mistaken though, there is a lot of natural light spilling into this space that help soften the dramatic architecture & decor.

For this reason I recommend couples to visit this place in the early afternoon when the sun is more intense. This allows the sun to bounce off surrounding buildings to create glow inside the capital, which will flatter you and your partner! Even on a dark overcast day though- it’s impossible to take a bad photo in this space!

There’s hidden secrets around every corner, I’ve been here countless times and it seems like there’s somewhere new to explore every time I come here. Whether that’s an unexplored corridor filled with antique wallpaper or hidden stairwells with wonderful natural light. There are so many stories to be told here! It’s easily one of my favorite indoor photography spots for both wedding and engagement sessions in upstate New York!

The New York State Capitol is located at: State St. and, Washington Ave, Albany, NY 12224. The building is open from 7am-7pm Monday through Fridays (Holidays excluded). The building is closed on the weekend and is only accessible through tours during this time. For this reason I recommend any couples visit the capital during the week so they can explore the building freely.

I recommend that couples park in the parking lot directly next to the Albany Museum ($5) and access the Capitol Building by walking through the Mall/Concourse underneath the Empire Plaza. Another way I have found success getting to the Capitol Building is by parking in the parking garage that is connected to the Albany MVP Arena ($8). There is a sheltered pedestrian bridge that will take you to the concourse which leads to the capital.

Access to the capitol building itself is free!

If you would like more information on the capitol building before your visit here’s a link!

Note: These photos are from a styled photo session, highlighting the beautiful locations & lighting that make the New York State Capitol perfect for engagement and wedding photos.

Quick Tips for Planning Your Albany Capitol Wedding or Engagement Photo Session

• Location: State St. & Washington Ave, Albany, NY 12224
• Best Time To Visit: Weekdays- Early Afternoon for beautiful natural light
• Cost: Free to enter!
• Top Photo Spot: The Million Dollar Staircase
• Parking: Nearby Museum lot ($5) or MVP Arena Garage ($8)
• Security: Security Checkpoint at entry
• Building Hours: 7am-7pm Monday-Friday (closed on weekends unless on guided tour + holidays)

Thank you for reading!

-Raf