Lightner Museum Courtyard photography location St. Augustine

Historic Downtown

Lightner Museum Courtyard Photography Guide

A photographer's guide to St. Augustine's most iconic courtyard

About the Lightner Museum Courtyard

The Lightner Museum Courtyard is one of St. Augustine's most photographed locations, and the bridge over the koi pond might be the single most iconic photo spot in the city. The Spanish Renaissance architecture, tropical landscaping, and romantic atmosphere make it perfect for engagements, elopements, and especially proposals.

What many people don't realize is that this exterior courtyard is managed separately from the Lightner Museum Wedding Venue inside the building. The courtyard is operated by the City of St. Augustine and The Wedding Authority. You'll need a permit for professional photography, ceremonies, or proposals—but it's well worth the coordination.

We've photographed countless sessions in this courtyard, from surprise proposals where the couple has no idea what's coming, to intimate elopement ceremonies on the bridge. During Nights of Lights season (November-January), the palm trees glow with white lights, creating some of the most magical wedding photos you can get anywhere in Florida.

Best Photo Spots

The Bridge Over the Koi Pond

The most iconic photo spot in all of St. Augustine. This arched bridge over the koi pond is incredibly popular for proposals, elopement ceremonies, and couple portraits. At night during Nights of Lights, the lit palms create pure magic.

The Loggias (Covered Walkways)

The arched colonnades surrounding the courtyard offer beautiful architectural framing for portraits. The repeating arches create depth and that classic Spanish Renaissance look that defines St. Augustine.

Garden Areas

Tropical plants, palms, and lush landscaping throughout the courtyard provide varied backdrops. The greenery photographs beautifully year-round.

Flagler College Views

From certain angles in the courtyard, you can incorporate the stunning Ponce de León Hall towers of Flagler College into your shots. A quintessential St. Augustine backdrop.

Best Times to Photograph

Golden Hour

Late afternoon light is gorgeous here, especially in the winter months. The low sun creates warm tones and dramatic shadows through the arches.

Nights of Lights Season

November through January, the courtyard is transformed with millions of white lights. Night portraits here during this time are absolutely stunning—one of our favorite times to photograph at this location.

Early Morning

Beat the tourist crowds and have the courtyard nearly to yourself. Soft morning light is flattering and you'll have more freedom to move around.

Blue Hour

The brief period just after sunset when the sky turns deep blue is magical here. The architectural lighting comes on while there's still color in the sky.

Photographer Tips

Permit Required

This courtyard is managed by the City of St. Augustine and The Wedding Authority—not the Lightner Museum. You'll need a permit for professional photography, ceremonies, and proposals. We can help coordinate this for you.

Separate from the Wedding Venue

The Lightner Museum Wedding Venue (interior courtyard and Grand Ballroom) is a completely separate booking. Even if you're having your wedding at the venue, you'll need a separate permit to use this exterior courtyard.

The Wedding Authority

Contact The Wedding Authority for permits and availability. They manage several downtown St. Augustine locations including this courtyard. We've worked with them for years and know the process well.

Proposal Planning

The koi pond bridge is one of the most popular proposal spots in St. Augustine. We've photographed dozens of surprise proposals here and can help coordinate timing, positioning, and backup plans.

Combine with Downtown

The courtyard is in the heart of downtown, making it easy to combine with other nearby locations like the Cathedral, St. George Street, or the Plaza de la Constitución.