Choosing a Location for Your Engagement Photos

Yay, you’re engaged! But wait…where should you take your photos? You’re deep in wedding planning, with spreadsheets and sticky notes galore, and you just got to put a big ol’ checkmark on your to-do list next to “photographer” because you found the perfect one. You can’t wait to get started so you book a date for your session but now you’re faced with the dilemma of finding the perfect location. 

Your engagement is a relatively short chapter in your love story, so don’t be afraid to choose a location that makes you feel both comfortable and excited. If you’re feeling laid back and prefer to keep things simple and sweet, a park or nature area with walking trails, greenery/flowers, and beautiful trees is a fantastic option - bonus points if it’s on a lake or river! You’ll be sure to have a TON of great spots to work with. 

For the sentimental among us, (my husband to a T!) think back to your favorite memories as a couple - there might be a hidden gem nestled among those moments. For example, one of my couples met while they were counselors at a summer camp in Northern Wisconsin. They got permission for us to come back on a weekend when there were no campers on site, and we had the whole grounds, forest, and waterfront to ourselves to create magical engagement images in one of their all-time favorite places.

If you have a grander, more adventurous idea in mind, consider a destination shoot. Check in with your photographer to see if they have any upcoming travel planned, or propose an idea or two of your own. While destination sessions often involve additional travel fees from your photographer, they are a fun option that both give you an excuse to take a fun trip AND get some pretty incredible images you wouldn’t be able to find back home. Plus, your photographer will be just as excited as you! Shooting on a rocky beach on an island off the coast of Washington is still one of my all-time favorite sessions - although a sunrise session on a beach in Mexico is right up there, too. :)

Have the adventure bug but want to stay closer to home? Consider the people in your network and if you know anyone with access to a cabin, private estate, vineyard, or more. You might be surprised by who says, “Yes!” when you ask to have your engagement session there.

Your photographer is a great resource when it comes to narrowing down your choices. If you need any guidance, they are always happy to help. :) At the end of the day, the most important thing is that you and your fiance are together - the photos are just a fabulous bonus.

Originally posted July 11, 2022