Engagement Sessions; Why bother and where to go
First of all, why bother with an engagement session at all when you are shelling out for professional photos on your wedding day already? I personally love engagement sessions for many reasons, one of which is the simple fact that I get to meet and get to know the couple and their energy together better, well in advance which can help me anticipate memorable moments easier on the big day. Clients also have the huge benefit of getting a better understanding of how I conduct portrait sessions, know exactly what to expect and feel a bit comfier with the person they have invited to document their wedding. Plus, some wedding photographers offer discounted (or even free *wink wink*) sessions when you book your wedding with them.
When most couples start planning their engagement session, the usual spots come to mind — a gorgeous garden, a sandy beach at sunset, or a rustic field filled with golden light. And those are beautiful choices and I love them! But as a wedding photographer who's had the honor of capturing love stories for all kinds of couples, I can tell you: some of the most unforgettable engagement sessions happen in the most unexpected places. If you're looking to break out of the traditional mold and choose a location that's as unique as your relationship, there’s definitely options out there.
There's something incredibly special about returning to the scene of the crime. Where did you meet, or have your first date? If the location owners are on board, we could get some touching photos that relive where it all began. Whether it’s a cozy coffee shop, a dimly lit dive bar, a comic book store, or even a late-night diner, shooting in a spot tied to your personal history adds authenticity and nostalgia that you can actually feel in the photos.
Want a session full of laughter, bright colors, and movement? A retro arcade or neon-lit roller rink is pure magic. These locations can help really amp up and showcase your chemistry to the fullest. These spots are playful, a little chaotic in the best way, and create photos full of real smiles (and maybe some hilarious competitiveness). Embrace the crazy lighting! It adds an artistic, edgy vibe that you just can’t fake outdoors.
More of an introvert? Don't love the idea of potentionally having your photo taken in public? Why not just stay home. Hear me out: you don’t need a picture-perfect, Pinterest-styled home for this. There's real beauty in photographing you in your real space — cuddling on the couch, playing video games, dancing barefoot in the kitchen. These sessions often feel the most intimate and honest because you're surrounded by your life together. Even if you think your home is “nothing special,” it is — because it's yours.
Looking for something more urban and editorial? Abandoned factories, graffiti-filled alleys, and open rooftops give off major main character energy. Plus, they create that effortlessly stylish, almost cinematic look that makes you look like you’re starring in your own indie film. On the other side of that coin if you want to talk about vibrant, colorful, and whimsical maybe a local fair is more your speed. Imagine riding the Ferris wheel, sharing cotton candy, or winning a prize at a booth — all while I capture the genuine excitement and romance of the moment. Bonus points if theres fireworks!
Choosing a less traditional location isn’t about being “different for the sake of it” — it’s about telling your story your way. It’s about making space for you to show up fully: your quirks, your laughter, your history, your love. My job isn’t just to create beautiful pictures — it’s to capture your connection. And sometimes, the best place to do that isn’t a picture-perfect field, but somewhere completely unexpected. So if you’re dreaming of an engagement session that feels a little more "you" and a little less "everyone else" — let’s dream it up together. I’m all in.