3 Tips for Planning Your Perfect Engagement Photo Session
Your engagement session is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning! It’s a chance to celebrate your love story, capture beautiful images, and get comfortable in front of the camera before your big day. Whether you're dreaming of a classic DC backdrop, a stunning outdoor setting in Northern Virginia, or a unique location that reflects your personality, these three essential tips will help you plan an unforgettable engagement session.
1. Choose the Perfect Location
Location sets the tone for your engagement photos, so it’s important to pick a place that reflects your style and relationship. Think about spots that are meaningful to you as a couple—maybe where you first met, had your first date, or got engaged. Here are some top engagement session locations in Washington, DC, and Northern Virginia:
Iconic DC Landmarks: The Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and the National Mall provide timeless, elegant backdrops. These locations work well for couples who want a sophisticated, urban feel. (Check for photography permits in advance: National Park Service Permits)
Nature & Gardens: Meadowlark Botanical Gardens in Vienna, VA, and the U.S. National Arboretum offer lush landscapes and seasonal blooms. These are great options if you love natural, organic beauty.
City Streets & Waterfront Views: Georgetown’s cobblestone streets and waterfront, or Alexandria’s Old Town, give your photos a charming, romantic feel.
Personal & Unique Locations: Your favorite coffee shop, a rooftop bar, or even your home can provide a meaningful and intimate setting.
Pro Tip: Schedule your session during golden hour (an hour after sunrise or before sunset) for the best natural lighting and dreamy, soft colors.
2. Dress to Impress (But Stay True to Yourself!)
Your engagement session is a great excuse to dress up, but it’s also important to feel comfortable and confident. Here’s how to choose outfits that will elevate your photos:
Coordinate, Don’t Match: Pick a color palette that complements both of you without being overly matchy. Neutrals, pastels, and jewel tones photograph beautifully. You don’t want to wear the exact shades or outfits.
Timeless Over Trendy: Opt for classic styles that won’t feel outdated in a few years. Flowy dresses, tailored suits, and simple accessories create a timeless look. But if you want something more casual, go for it!
Avoid Distracting Patterns: Solid colors and soft textures work best on camera. Avoid logos, loud patterns, and neon colors that can take attention away from you. (But look below! I love the yellow pants here. Play with colors and have fun!)
Think About Movement: Pick clothing that allows you to move freely. A long dress can add romantic movement to your photos, while well-fitted pants or a blazer provide a polished look. Think about whether you want very formal photos, or whimsical movement. Wear something that fits your preference. And if you don’t know what you want? opt for comfy. That way your photographer can go for a mix of both and see what you are more comfortable with.
Consider the Season & Location: For summer and spring sessions, light fabrics and breathable materials work best. In colder months, layering with stylish coats, scarves, and boots keeps you warm while looking great.
3. Work with the Right Photographer & Feel Comfortable Posing
Your photographer is the key to creating engagement photos you’ll love forever. Here’s how to find the right fit and get the most out of your session:
Choose a Photographer Who Matches Your Style: Every photographer has a unique approach—some specialize in light and airy images, while others focus on dramatic, moody tones. Browse portfolios and find a photographer whose style aligns with your vision. Some photographers can do both! So find someone who’s work you love, even if that just includes posing.
Look for a Connection: Your engagement session should feel natural and fun! A great photographer will help guide you, making sure you feel at ease. Consider meeting with them or doing a video call beforehand to establish a connection.
Pro tip: Planning an engagement session BEFORE your wedding day can help so much when it comes to being in front of the camera! Engagement sessions allow you to get used to your photographer, learn how to just focus on your partner and the moment while being photographed, and also make sure that you love the way your photographer directs and communicates with you.
Practice Posing, But Keep It Natural: Many couples feel nervous about posing, but the best photos come from natural interactions. Try holding hands, walking together, whispering something funny to each other, or just focusing on each other instead of the camera.
Pro Tip: Stay Moving! If you ever aren’t sure what to do next, move your body. rub your spouses arm, put your hands over their shoulder or around their waste, brush her hair back, kiss her cheek then her forehead ect….
Trust Your Photographer: Experienced photographers know how to direct you to get the best shots, so relax and enjoy the moment.
One last thing!
Leave. Yourself. Time.
Don’t plan a 30 engagement engagement session, or even a one hour engagement session and try to fit 3 outfits or 2 locations in. Thin about what you want and then plan for extra time.
You aren’t just doing this for the photos. You are doing it for the FUN and the MEMORIES. Pay attention to creating the most low stress, relaxed, and feel good time without racing the clock. Trust me. It’ll be worth it.