So he finally popped the big question and now you’re about to get married! CONGRATS! Now that you have told your family the amazing news, posted an image of the engagement ring on Instagram to make all of your single girlfriends jealous, set a wedding date and found your awesome wedding photographer, the next step is setting up an engagement shoot so you can get those save the dates in the mail ASAP. As a wedding photographer in Temecula, I want nothing more than to give my brides and grooms the type of engagement photos that will be f***ing awesome. Photos that kick so much ass that every time you look at them you will think “I am freaking incredible”. Your engagement photos are a reflection of you and that means they should emphasize your personal style and creativity so lets talk about what steps you should follow in order to get the raddest possible engagement photos!
Fitting an engagement session into a busy week of work, errands, and family obligations can feel like a headache. That’s why roughly 85% of engagement shoots happen on weekends. But here’s the catch: choosing a weekend for a popular location—think Balboa Park, Griffith Observatory, or the beach—can create some real photography headaches.
These spots aren’t just popular for engagement shoots—they’re popular in general. That means you’ll be trying to get romantic and natural while strangers, joggers, kids, dogs, and maybe even someone dressed like a space alien wander through your frame. Acting like yourselves in front of a camera is hard enough without random distractions.
If your heart is set on a busy location, try scheduling your session on a weekday (but not a holiday!). Fewer people = fewer interruptions. A photo bomb at your wedding reception? Funny. A homeless man on roller skates in your engagement photos? Not so much.
Most couples have never worked with a professional photographer before, so it’s normal to feel a little nervous during an engagement session. The best way to beat that? Don’t treat it like a stiff, posed photo shoot.
I always tell my brides and grooms to plan an activity they actually want to do—something fun, adventurous, or just plain silly—while I tag along and capture the moments as they happen. Of course, I’ll step in now and then to frame a better shot, but the magic comes from real, natural moments.
Forced smiles? They look exactly like that—forced. Real laughter, playful shenanigans, and genuine interactions? That’s what makes the photos awesome. Grab a coffee, hit a park, or explore a spot you’ve always wanted to see—whatever feels fun to you. I’ll be there to capture everything from playful glances to the occasional booty grab. Natural. Honest. Totally you.
Engagement photos should reflect your style and personality. Think of yourself like a mullet: business in the front, party in the back. One of the easiest ways to capture both sides? A simple wardrobe change.
Switching outfits can totally shift the tone and vibe of your session. Start off traditional—maybe something church-ready or classic—and then switch into something fun, quirky, or totally you. That’s your excuse to bust out the Bill Murray tee or that retro outfit that makes your fiancé drool just a little more than usual.
Pair a wardrobe change with a quick move to a different location, and suddenly your engagement photos feel totally fresh and unique. Vintage sundress? Check. Edgy, playful outfit? Check. Showcasing your personality in full? Absolutely. These little changes help create diverse, dynamic images you’ll actually love—and make your session feel more like an adventure than a photoshoot.
Couples often stress over where to take engagement photos. Truth? The location barely matters. Engagement photos aren’t about a backdrop—they’re about two people in love.
Pick a spot where you feel at ease. Somewhere meaningful, fun, or just plain comfortable. Your house with your dogs, a local farmer’s market, a favorite pub, the beach, or a hiking trail—anywhere that tells a bit of your story works.
The best engagement photos capture real people enjoying real moments. Smile, laugh, be yourselves, and let the magic happen—locations can’t compete with genuine connection.
Props can add personality and fun to your engagement session, and I always encourage couples to bring one or two. Think of props like spices—just enough enhances the flavor, too much overwhelms.
A guitar, vintage suitcase, or a colorful hat can add style and character. But remember, this isn’t a photo booth with sparkly wigs and giant bow ties. Props should complement, not steal the spotlight.
Treat them like accessories in a minimalist fashion shoot. Trends fade, but timeless photos last forever. Keep it simple, keep it stylish, and let the focus stay on the two of you.
