Planning Your Session at the Cummer Museum

Hi! I am Phavy, an engagement and wedding photographer in Jacksonville. If you’re thinking about having your proposal or engagement session at the Cummer Museum of Arts & Garden in Jacksonville, you’re making an excellent choice! With its stunning gardens, timeless architecture, and an array of art, this venue offers a picture-perfect backdrop.

The photos included in this blog will be of a surprise proposal at Cummer Museum of Arts & Garden.

To help you get the most out of your session, I’ve listed the different parts of Cummer Museum of Arts and Gardens as well as what you need to know for your session.

Exploring the Different Parts of the Cummer Museum for Your Photo Session

When planning your proposal or engagement session at the Cummer Museum, you’ll have access to a variety of stunning locations, each offering its own unique charm and vibe. Let’s take a look at the different areas that can serve as beautiful backdrops for your photos.

The Gardens

The Cummer Gardens are truly the highlight of the museum for most photography sessions. They feature a blend of formal and natural beauty, perfect for capturing both posed and candid moments. Here are a few standout areas:

• Italian Garden: This area boasts symmetrical, well-manicured hedges, reflecting pools, and classical sculptures that give off a romantic and timeless vibe. The clean lines and lush greenery are ideal for more formal, dressed-up shots.
• English Garden: With a slightly more relaxed and informal layout, the English Garden features winding paths, a cozy pergola, and seasonal flowers. This spot is great for more candid, intimate moments or even playful shots.
• The Olmsted Garden: Offering views of the St. Johns River, the Olmsted Garden provides a beautiful, open backdrop with water features, making it a serene and peaceful space for photos. The sweeping views and natural beauty make it perfect for capturing a dreamy, romantic feel.
• Wisteria Arbor: If you’re looking for a fairytale-like setting, the Wisteria Arbor is a must. In the spring, it’s draped in gorgeous wisteria blooms, adding a magical, ethereal touch to your photos.

The Reflecting Pool

Located within the Italian Garden, the reflecting pool adds an element of elegance to any photo session. The still water creates a mirror effect, doubling the beauty of the surroundings and providing a stunning, symmetrical composition. This area is perfect for more artistic shots, especially during golden hour when the light softens.

The Sculpture Garden

For a more modern feel, the Sculpture Garden offers contemporary artwork and clean lines, adding an artsy and sophisticated touch to your session. The mix of nature and sculpture creates a dynamic setting that works well for couples who love art and want something a bit more unique.

The Riverfront

The museum sits right along the St. Johns River, offering breathtaking waterfront views. The riverfront area is perfect for sunset shots, where you can capture the golden light reflecting off the water. It’s also a great spot for more relaxed, candid moments with the open sky and peaceful surroundings.

The Museum Building

The Cummer Museum building itself provides a beautiful architectural backdrop for photos. The grand entrances, clean lines, and historic details add a touch of formality to your session. You can use the museum’s entrances or some of its indoor hallways for a more classic and refined look, perfect for when you want something a little more timeless.

Indoor Galleries

If you’re a lover of art, the museum’s indoor galleries can offer a unique and elegant setting for your photos. Surrounded by works of fine art, the indoor areas provide a more intimate and formal vibe, perfect for winter or rainy day sessions. The contrast between the modern artwork and your love story will make your photos truly stand out.

The Canopy of Oak Trees

One of the most iconic parts of the Cummer Gardens is the majestic canopy of oak trees. These towering trees, with their draping Spanish moss, create a whimsical and natural setting. It’s a great spot for intimate moments, as the tree canopy filters the sunlight, casting beautiful, dappled light onto you and your partner.

Each of these areas offers something unique, so depending on your style and vision, we can explore different spots around the museum to capture a variety of looks. Whether you prefer the formal elegance of the Italian Garden, the contemporary flair of the Sculpture Garden, or the natural beauty along the riverfront, the Cummer Museum has endless possibilities for beautiful engagement or proposal photos.

What you need to know

Cummer Museum Photography Permit and Hours

The Cummer Museum requires a photography permit that must be obtained two weeks prior to the session. The permit is a $250+tax fee. Cummer Museum allows only one photography permit per hour.

There are designated times for photography sessions, so it’s important to plan ahead. Here’s when you can schedule your shoot:

• Tuesdays & Fridays: 11:15 a.m. – 7 p.m.
• Wednesdays & Thursdays: 11:15 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Sundays: 12:15 p.m. – 4 p.m.

These are the only times photography permits are allowed, so let’s make sure we lock in a session that works for you during these hours. Cummer Museum is strict about photography, and I have seen others get asked to leave because they did not have a permit.

What to Wear

When it comes to your outfit, I recommend dressing up for this location. The Cummer Museum’s gardens are elegant and beautifully manicured, which pairs perfectly with a more formal, classy look. Think cocktail dresses, a chic suit, or stylish formal attire. A polished outfit will elevate your photos and complement the sophisticated surroundings.

Why Hire a Professional Who Knows the Location

Having a photographer who knows the location means less stress for you and more time capturing those perfect moments. I’ve photographed at the Cummer Museum several times before. I understand the process in which to get the photography permits and I will handle this process for you. Also, I’m already familiar with the best spots and lighting. I know how to navigate the space to make the most of your session, ensuring we get a variety of stunning shots.

A Beautiful and Relaxed Experience

On the day of your session, we’ll take our time exploring the gardens and spaces at the museum. From the iconic sculptures to the vibrant flowers, there’s no shortage of amazing spots to capture your love story. I focus on a blend of posed and candid shots, so you’ll have a variety of beautiful images that feel natural and true to your relationship.

Let’s Create Something Magical Together!

If you’re ready to make your proposal or engagement session unforgettable, I’m here to help. With my knowledge of the Cummer Museum and experience in capturing beautiful moments, we can create photos you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

Phavy Photography (phavyphotos.com)
Jacksonville Proposal Photographer
E-mail: contact@phavyphotos.com
Phone: 904-228-1350