As a documentary-style wedding photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how magical engagement sessions can be. When couples feel relaxed and true to themselves, the resulting photos radiate joy and connection. But how do you create an experience that’s both fun and authentic? Here are my top tips for making your engagement session a true reflection of your love story—and having a great time while you’re at it.

1. Choose a Location That Tells Your Story

The setting for your engagement session sets the tone for the entire shoot, so pick a place that resonates with you as a couple. Including a meaningful backdrop not only enhances your photos but also helps you feel more at ease.

Ideas:

Sentimental Spots: Think of the park where you had your first date or the coffee shop where you always meet on Sunday mornings. Including meaningful locations adds layers to your story.
Adventure-Inspired Locations: If you’re an outdoorsy couple, a golden-hour hike or lakeside picnic creates a stunning backdrop and an opportunity to enjoy your favorite activities together.
Urban Vibes: Rooftop views, murals, and bustling streets can reflect a chic or edgy vibe if that’s your style.

Photo Ideas:

Capture the two of you laughing in front of a vibrant mural.
Wide shots of you walking hand-in-hand along a trail.
Snuggling up at a coffee shop window, framed by soft natural light.

By incorporating the best engagement photo locations and unique engagement session locations, you’ll have a session that feels uniquely yours.

Close-up of a couple's hands holding coffee cups, with an engagement ring visible on one hand, creating a warm and intimate moment during their engagement session at a cozy café.

2. Start with a Fun Icebreaker

Feeling camera-shy? Don’t worry—most couples do! Starting with an activity or icebreaker is the perfect way to ease into your session and shake off those nerves. The key is to focus on having fun together, not on the camera.

Ideas:

Bring Your Favorite Drinks: Whether it’s coffee, cocktails, or a bottle of wine, sharing a drink can feel casual and familiar.
Play a Game: Toss a frisbee, have a mini dance-off, or compete in a trivia question challenge. These playful moments bring out genuine smiles.
Write Each Other a Note: Bring a short love letter or list of reasons why you’re excited to marry each other, and read them aloud during the session.

Photo Ideas:

Candid shots of you clinking glasses or sharing a toast.
Playful action shots of you mid-spin during a dance.
Close-ups of the emotional reactions while reading your notes.

Including icebreakers like these ensures the session flows naturally. Feeling comfortable in front of the camera doesn’t have to be complicated!

Couple browsing a wine shop together, sharing a lighthearted moment as they hold and examine a bottle of wine, showcasing a candid and personal engagement session activity.

3. Incorporate Candid Moments

Posed photos are lovely, but the real magic happens when you let your guard down and share authentic interactions. Candid moments often turn out to be the most memorable because they showcase your true personalities and connection.

Ideas:

Natural Movement: Walk, run, or slow-dance together. These fluid movements create opportunities for candid moments.
Inside Jokes: Whisper something funny or sweet to each other to spark real laughter.
Simple Prompts: Instead of saying, “Smile for the camera,” I might ask you to share the story of how you met or what you’re most excited about for your wedding.

Photo Ideas:

A sweeping, romantic kiss in motion.
Mid-laughter shots after a whispered joke.
A quiet, intimate moment where your heads rest together.

By embracing authentic engagement photography, our session will feel effortless and real.

A playful and romantic moment as a couple rides a single bicycle together on a paved path lined with vibrant autumn foliage. The woman sits on the handlebars, smiling warmly at her partner.

4. Wear What Makes You Feel Amazing

Your outfits should reflect your personality and feel comfortable enough to let you move freely. The right clothing helps you feel confident and carefree, which translates beautifully in photos.

Ideas:

Coordinate Without Matching: Choose complementary colors or textures that align with the session’s vibe. For example, soft neutrals for a beach session or bold patterns for a city shoot.
Bring Options: Consider an outfit change halfway through—one casual and one dressy—for variety.
Add Personal Touches: Accessories like a scarf, hat, or heirloom jewelry can add extra meaning.

Photo Ideas:

Flowing dresses caught in the wind.
Playful shots of you swapping accessories or fixing each other’s clothes.
Twirling in a dramatic skirt for dynamic movement.

To ensure your style shines, think creatively about what to wear for your engagement photos.

5. Involve Personal Elements

Your engagement session should feel like you. Adding personal touches or props can make it uniquely yours, creating photos that resonate deeply. Personal touches ensure your photos stand out. If you need some ideas for props for engagement photos to inspire your planning, look no further!

Ideas:

Bring Your Pets: Dogs, cats, or even a horse—include your furry (or feathered!) family members.
Use Hobbies as Props: A guitar, a pair of hiking boots, or even your favorite board game can make the session feel playful and intimate.
Plan an Activity: Bake cookies, paddleboard, or set up a cozy picnic—these interactive ideas can help you forget the camera is even there.

Photo Ideas:

Snuggling with your pet under a blanket.
Close-ups of your hands engaged in an activity, like strumming a guitar or pouring wine.
Wide-angle shots of you baking together, with flour dusting the air.

Couple stands side by side looking lovingly at one another, with their horse in the foreground.

Your engagement session is more than just a photoshoot—it’s a celebration of your relationship. By choosing meaningful locations, embracing candid moments, and infusing the session with your unique personality, you’ll create photos that truly reflect your love. Follow along in this blog for more top tips for engagement sessions.

Ready to plan your engagement session? Let’s chat and make it an unforgettable experience!