engagement photos
guide
engagement photos
guide
The thought of getting your photos taken with your significant other may make you a bit nervous. That is totally okay and completely normal! 90% of couples that we work with tell us they think they will be awkward in front of
preserving the beauty
Engagement Session (n.)
capturing the giddy-in-love
moments before you get married.
the camera. We once had an engagement session of our own so we've been where you are and understand how you feel. So take a deep breath, because we promise to be there for you every step of this journey. We put together this
little guide to get you started on prepping for your dream engagement session where you'll get photos to preserve the beauty of this special season.
The thought of getting your photos taken with your significant other may make you a bit nervous. That is totally okay and completely normal! 90% of couples that we work with tell us they expect to be awkward in front of the camera. We once had an engagement session of our own, so we've been where you are and understand how you feel. So take a deep breath, because we promise to be there for you every step of this journey. We put together this little guide to get you started on prepping for your dream engagement session where you'll get photos to preserve the beauty of this special season.
preserving the beauty
Engagement Session (n.)
the giddy-in-love
moments before you get married.
what is an
engagement session?
We like to think of engagement sessions as double-dates with a mission. We’ll use this time to get to know each other, explore a location, get you comfortable in front of the camera, and of course, get great photos. You'll get a feel for how we work together as a team and how we pose you naturally to capture romantic portraits like the ones you’ve seen on our website and social media. These sessions are all about celebrating your life together, telling your story, and illustrating the love you share.
what is an
engagement session?
We like to think of engagement sessions as double-dates with a mission! We’ll use this time to get to know each other, explore a location, get you comfortable in front of the camera, and of course, get great photos.
You'll get a feel for how we work together as a team and how we pose you naturally to capture romantic portraits like the ones you’ve seen on our website and social media. These sessions are all about celebrating your life together, telling your story, and illustrating the love you share.
01
SCHEDULING YOUR SESSION
The month you should schedule your engagement session for depends on what you would like to use the photos for. It’s typically recommended to send Save The Dates 6-7 months before your wedding. Our average editing time for engagement photos is about 10 days, so we recommend scheduling your session at least 6 months out from your wedding date if you plan to use the photos for those. That being said, if your session will be in Florida, we do recommend scheduling during the cooler months. Being outside when it's not blazing hot is much more enjoyable (and better looking if sweat could be an issue), however, we are more than happy to host the session whenever you two would like.
Couples generally schedule their sessions with us 3 or 4 weeks in advance. Due to weddings and traveling on the weekends, we are only available for engagement sessions on weekdays, Monday-Thursday. The ideal time to start a session is 2 hours before sunset, but this may vary based on the amount of shade at the location you choose.
02
location location location
We know that choosing where to have your engagement session can be a daunting task, so we want to give you quite a bit of help with this part. There are so many awesome locations around Florida so we hope this helps you choose the perfect backdrop to have a fun session and get gorgeous pictures. Do note: these are only suggestions! We’ve chosen these places because they work great in any lighting condition and offer a variety of looks, but if you have somewhere in mind that’s meaningful to you two or an outside-the-box idea for a shoot (sunset yacht cruise anyone?)- we want to do that! Seriously. We love when couples pick a location that is sentimental or special to them in some way. Think about things that inspire you- places that are fun or include your hobbies, careers, or passions.
03
"WHAT DO WE DO WITH OUR HANDS?!”
It typically takes a little while to feel comfortable having your photo taken, but engagement sessions are the best way for the two of you to practice for your wedding day photos. Every couple is different so we’ll give you as much or as little direction as you need. We know you’ve probably had your photos professionally taken one time or less, so we’ll be there to guide you and make sure you’re looking your best. As the session goes on, you’ll become more and more comfortable and you’ll feel like pros by the time your big day comes around!
let your love run wild
let your love run wild
01
SCHEDULING YOUR SESSION
The month you should schedule your engagement session for depends on what you would like to use the photos for. It’s typically recommended to send Save The Dates 6-7 months before your wedding. Our average editing time for engagement photos is about 10 days, so we recommend scheduling your session at least 6 months out from your wedding date if you plan to use the photos for those. That being said, if your session will be in Florida, we do recommend scheduling during the cooler months. Being outside when it's not blazing hot is much more enjoyable (and better looking if sweat could be an issue), however, we are more than happy to host the session whenever you two would like.
Couples generally schedule their sessions with us 3 or 4 weeks in advance. Due to weddings and traveling on the weekends, we are only available for engagement sessions on weekdays, Monday-Thursday. The ideal time to start a session is 2 hours before sunset, but this may vary based on the amount of shade at the location you choose.
let your love run wild
We know that choosing where to have your engagement session can be a daunting task, so we want to give you quite a bit of help with this part. There are so many awesome locations around Florida so we hope this helps you choose the perfect backdrop to have a fun session and get gorgeous pictures. Do note: these are only suggestions! We’ve chosen these places because they work great in any lighting condition and offer a variety of looks, but if you have somewhere in mind that’s meaningful to you two or an outside-the-box idea for a shoot (sunset yacht cruise anyone?)- we want to do that! Seriously. We love when couples pick a location that is sentimental or special to them in some way. Think about things that inspire you- places that are fun or include your hobbies, careers, or passions.
02
location location location
let your love run wild
It typically takes a little while to feel comfortable having your photo taken, but engagement sessions are the best way for the two of you to practice for your wedding day photos. Every couple is different so we’ll give you as much or as little direction as you need. We know you’ve probably had your photos professionally taken one time or less, so we’ll be there to guide you and make sure you’re looking your best. As the session goes on, you’ll become more and more comfortable and you’ll feel like pros by the time your big day comes around!
03
"what do we do with our hands?!"
locations
Below you’ll find 120+ engagement photos from our favorite Florida locations to host sessions at. We chose these photos because they represent the general look and feel of each place. As you can see, there are many different-looking spots within each listed location. We try to get as much variety of backgrounds as possible each shoot, but different lighting (cloudy vs. sunny) and different times of year make some spots better than others on certain days. No engagement session will have every photo spot pictured in this post! We're always exploring and trying to make each shoot unique, so we'll choose where to take photos based on that specific scenario. Once you find what locations you’re interested in, be sure to click on photos to enlarge them and check out the full blog post linked from a specific session there as well.
a note about locations
a note about
a note about locations
Below you’ll find 120+ engagement photos from our favorite Florida locations to host sessions at. We chose these photos because they represent the general look and feel of each place. As you can see, there are many different-looking spots within each listed location. We try to get as much variety of backgrounds as possible each shoot, but different lighting (cloudy vs. sunny) and different times of year make some spots better than others. No engagement session will have every photo spot pictured in this post! We're always exploring and trying to make each shoot unique, so we'll choose where to take photos based on that specific scenario. Once you find what locations you’re interested in, be sure to click on photos to enlarge them and check out the full blog post linked from a specific session there as well.
Rollins is pretty much our favorite place to do engagement sessions because there are lots of diverse photo spots very close together. There's beautiful architecture, well-maintained landscaping and trees, and pretty docks on a huge lake. The old buildings on campus are all beautiful and make gorgeous backdrops. It also works wonderfully on a day where it may rain (if rescheduling isn't an option!) because there are so many great covered passageways and overhang and it still looks great in overcast lighting. Air-conditioned bathrooms to change in makes this a very comfortable location as well!
rollins college
winter park, fl
Full Blog Post: Rollins College Engagement Session
Rollins is pretty much our favorite place to do engagement sessions because there are lots of diverse photo spots very close together. There's beautiful architecture, well-maintained landscaping and trees, and pretty docks on a huge lake. The old buildings on campus are all beautiful and make gorgeous backdrops. It also works wonderfully on a day where it may rain (if rescheduling isn't an option!) because there are so many great covered passageways and overhangs. Air-conditioned bathrooms to change in and easy parking makes this a very comfortable location as well! While it's plenty great on its own, Rollins is located close to several other good photo locations that couples sometimes like to combine it with.
rollins college
winter park, fl
Full Blog Post: Rollins College Engagement Session
view more locations
We love the Park Ave & downtown area of Winter Park. There are several gorgeous areas to take photos in. For this session, we’ll take photos around town and then end at Casa Feliz is a very pretty historical house. A classic central Florida wedding venue, Casa Feliz makes for a beautiful backdrop.
downtown winter park & casa feliz
Full Blog Post: winter park + casa feliz
view more locations
Lake Louisa is a large state park with great natural photo spots. There are pretty trees, rolling hills, wide-open fields, and beach access to a lake. While it's a bit of a drive from Orlando, you'll definitely get the rugged, outdoors look here.
lake louisa state park
Full Blog Post: lake louisa engagement session
view more locations
clermont, FL
Downtown Sanford is filled with really cool urban photo spots. There are lots of different textures, fun neighborhood streets, hip breweries and coffee shops, as well as an awesome lakeside park to end at sunset. It’s an awesome mixed of urban (textured walls and murals), nature (neighborhood streets with gorgeous trees and lighting) and class (lake views and sailboats).
downtown sanford
Full Blog Post: downtown sanford engagement session
view more locations
Leu Gardens is a gorgeous outdoor park for an engagement session. This lovely and expansive garden near downtown has beautiful lush greenery, interesting architecture, and large trees. The paved walkways are an added convenience for an outdoor look while not being too difficult to get around in nice clothes. Throughout the gardens, there are interesting structures, trees, and plants. If you're going for a sunset look, we only recommend Leu Gardens during the late fall, winter, or early spring months, due to the 5pm year-round closing time. As you can see below, we’ve only done one engagement session here but would love to do more!
leu gardens
Full Blog Post: leu gardens engagement session
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northeast orlando, fl
The Acre is an extremely unique wedding venue with eclectic and fun landscaping features throughout the one-acre park. This is definitely one of our favorite places to shoot! We’ve shot several weddings here, but are hoping more of you choose this location for your engagement photos.
the acre
Full Blog Post: rollins + the acre engagement session
$75 venue use fee
view more locations
orlando/college park
This trendy downtown Orlando neighborhood is super versatile because it has a great combo of urban photo spots, (neighborhood streets and nice landscaping) combined with a gorgeous tall grass/wheat field to end at sunset. It offers a more upscale urban vibe while still having tons of beautiful Florida greenery. The field is a great way to get an outdoorsy look without making a long drive!
baldwin park
Full Blog Post: baldwin park engagement session
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orlando, fl
An absolutely gorgeous park with a huge iconic oak tree in the center and then a gorgeous rocky beach to end at sunset. One of our favorites!
washington oaks gardens state park
Full Blog Post: WASHINGTON OAKS GARDENS STATE PARK ENGAGEMENT SESSIOn
$175 travel fee
view more locations
palm coast, fl
Big Talbot Island has pretty nature trails that lead to a very unique driftwood beach. The light hits the beach wonderfully and the calm waves are a nice fit for couples who are up for getting in the water!
big talbot island
state park
Full Blog Post: big talbot island state park ENGAGEMENT SESSIOn
$250 travel fee
view more locations
north jacksonville, fl
The city streets, historical architecture, and unique stone fort make downtown St. Augustine a great place for engagement photos. The grounds of Flagler College are also gorgeous, when the courtyard is open. Getting around can sometimes be hectic, but it’s worth it if you’re looking for a variety of different urban looks and a fun vibe. There’s also a beach 10 minutes away to change things up if desired.
historic st. augustine
Full Blog Post: st augustine ENGAGEMENT SESSIOn
$225 travel fee
view more locations
Bok Tower is similar to Leu Gardens but everything is much larger. There are incredible places to take photos throughout the park, with beautiful foliage and historical architecture. If you don't mind the drive and travel fee, we think this one of the best places in all of Florida for an engagement session.
bok tower gardens
Full Blog Post: bok tower ENGAGEMENT SESSIOn
$225 travel fee
view more locations
lake whales, FL
We love the Park Ave & downtown area of Winter Park. There are several gorgeous areas to take photos in. For this session, we’ll take photos around town and then end at Casa Feliz is a very pretty historical house. A classic central Florida wedding venue, Casa Feliz makes for a beautiful backdrop.
downtown winter park & casa feliz
full Blog Post: Winter Park + Casa Feliz
Full Blog Post: Lake Louisa Engagement Session
lake louisa state park
clermont, fl
Lake Louisa is a large state park with great natural photo spots. There are pretty trees, rolling hills, wide-open fields, and beach access to a lake. While it's a bit of a drive from Orlando, you'll definitely get the rugged, outdoors look here.
Full Blog Post: Downtown Sanford Engagement Session
Downtown Sanford is filled with really cool urban photo spots. There are lots of different textures, fun neighborhood streets, hip breweries and coffee shops, as well as an awesome lakeside park to end at sunset. It’s an awesome mixed of urban (textured walls and murals), nature (neighborhood streets with gorgeous trees and lighting) and class (lake views and sailboats).
downtown sanford
Full Blog Post: Baldwin Park Engagement Session
orlando, fl
baldwin park
This trendy downtown Orlando neighborhood is super versatile because it has a great combo of urban photo spots, (neighborhood streets and nice landscaping) combined with a gorgeous tall grass/wheat field to end at sunset. It offers a more upscale urban vibe while still having tons of beautiful Florida greenery. The field is a great way to get an outdoorsy look without making a long drive!
Full Blog Post: Washington Oaks Gardens State Park Engagement Session
$175 travel fee
palm coast, fl
An absolutely gorgeous park with a huge iconic oak tree in the center and then a gorgeous rocky beach to end at sunset. One of our favorites!
WASHINGTON OAKS GARDENS STATE PARK
Full Blog Post: Bok Tower Gardens Engagement Session
$225 travel fee
lake whales, fl
bok tower gardens
Bok Tower is similar to Leu Gardens but everything is much larger. There are incredible places to take photos throughout the park, with beautiful foliage and historical architecture. If you don't mind the drive and travel fee, we think this one of the best places in all of Florida for an engagement session.
Full blog post: ponce inlet Engagement Session
$150 travel fee
If you're looking for a strictly beach location near Orlando, Ponce Inlet is our favorite! In addition to having a long, gorgeous white sand beach, there are some rocks to sit on, a boardwalk, and some other fun elements to add some variety. This area is also dog friendly!
Ponce inlet beach
ponce inlet, fl
Full Blog Post: Big Talbot Island State Park Engagement Session
$250 travel fee
NORTH JACKSONVILLE, FL
BIG TALBOT ISLAND STATE PARK
Big Talbot Island has pretty nature trails that lead to a very unique driftwood beach. The light hits the beach wonderfully and the calm waves are a nice fit for couples who are up for getting in the water!
Full blog post: St. Augustine Engagement Session
$225 travel fee
The city streets, historical architecture, and unique stone fort make downtown St. Augustine a great place for engagement photos. The grounds of Flagler College are also gorgeous, when the courtyard is open. Getting around can sometimes be hectic, but it’s worth it if you’re looking for a variety of different urban looks and a fun vibe. There’s also a beach 10 minutes away to change things up if desired.
historic st. augustine
Where's your dream location to get photos taken? Let's go! We've taken engagement photos all over the world. We would love nothing more than to come on your adventure and meet you in whatever epic place you can think of to capture your love in an authentic way. *Travel Fees Apply
- Destination Engagement Shoot -
now that you've chosen your location,
we've got some more helpful information
to make sure you're completely prepared.
Where's your dream location to get photos taken? Let's go! We've taken engagement photos all over the world. We would love nothing more than to come on your adventure and meet you in whatever epic place you can think of to capture your love in an authentic way.
*Travel Fees Apply
- destination - engagement shoot
now that
you've chosen your location
we've got some more helpful information
to make sure you're completely prepared.
what should
WE WEAR?
Great question! We recommend bringing two outfits in two different styles - a formal, glam look and a casual, fun look. Be sure to dress in clothes that you feel confident in. If you want to bring more options, we can help you decide when we get to the shoot.
01) Avoid all logos (even small ones on polos) and big patterns that can be very distracting.
02) Wear outfits that complement each other. This doesn't necessarily mean you have to match each other (the ole’ white t-shirt and blue jeans look) but instead, dress in clothes and accessories that coordinate. You should each aim to wear a different color, but stay within a similar color palette.
03) Don't be afraid to be bold! Wear a bright color that pops in the photos, rock some fun shoes, or make a statement with a gorgeous necklace. Pairing an accessory or two with your outfit can really help bring some extra dimension to your images. Big statement earrings bring a lot of interest to photos. Scarves, belts and bracelets bring great visual interest, so choose one or two that don’t compete for attention.
04) There is no such thing as “too dressed up” when it comes to your engagement session, so don’t be afraid to have some fun. Long, flowy dresses look amazing on camera because they bring extra movement to the photos. A nice tailored suit with a pocket square is a classic look that you can’t go wrong with.
05) Typically, we recommend starting in your glam outfit, and then bringing your flirty and fun casual look to change into.
06) We recommend having your hair and makeup professionally done because it will look amazing and removes the stress of getting ready on your own. Whether it’s lashes or blown-out hair, professional hair and makeup will give you an extra boost of confidence in front of the camera, and it always photographs like a dream. This is the perfect opportunity to have your trial with your make-up artist for the wedding day. Remind them that it’s for engagement photos so that it looks fresh, natural, and not too heavy.
07) Show off the ring! Your engagement ring will be center stage, so be sure to get it cleaned before your session. Adding in a manicure is a good idea too.
Once you have a few options picked out for the both of you, try them on and stand next to each other in the mirror. Do you love the way you look? Do this a week before your session so you're not scrambling at the last minute trying to figure out what to wear. Most of our brides choose their dress first and then put together their fiancé’s outfit based on that.
what should we wear?
Here are our favorite tips to help you put together your most stylish outfits:
We recommend bringing two outfits
with two different styles - a formal, glam look and a casual, fun look. Be sure to dress in clothes that you feel confident in. If you want to bring more options, we can help you decide when we get to the shoot.
Below are our favorite
tips to help you put together your most stylish outfits:
03. Don't be afraid to be bold! Wear a bright color that pops in the photos, rock some fun shoes, or make a statement with a gorgeous necklace. Pairing an accessory or two with your outfit can really help bring some extra dimension to your images. Big statement earrings bring a lot of interest to photos. Scarves, belts and bracelets bring great visual interest, so choose one or two that don’t compete for attention.
04. There is no such thing as “too dressed up” when it comes to your engagement session, so don’t be afraid to have some fun. Long, flowy dresses look amazing on camera because they bring extra movement to the photos. A nice tailored suit with a pocket square is a classic look that you can’t go wrong with.
06. We recommend having your hair and makeup professionally done because it will look amazing and removes the stress of getting ready on your own. Whether it’s lashes or blown-out hair, professional hair and makeup will give you an extra boost of confidence in front of the camera, and it always photographs like a dream. This is the perfect opportunity to have your trial with your make-up artist for the wedding day. Remind them that it’s for engagement photos so that it looks fresh, natural, and not too heavy.
Once you have a few options picked out for the both of you, try them on and stand next to each other in the mirror. Do you love the way you look? Do this a week before your session so you're not scrambling at the last minute trying to figure out what to wear. Most of our brides choose their dress first and then put together their fiance’s outfit based on that.
Props don't have to be lame.
Yes, the days in the 2000's with the hanging signs are over, but there are a lot of cool props you can bring to your engagement session to spice things up. These add interest to your photos and really give your session something unique and individual to the two of you.
Here are some ideas to consider to spice things up:
- Bikes, skateboards, scooters or surfboards
- A picnic (Grab a basket and fill it with delicious
cheeses, fruits, and wine. Don't forget a cute
blanket!)
- Champagne
- Giant balloons
- Confetti Poppers
- Trendy Sunglasses
- Hats that fit your vision
- A bouquet of flowers
- Your favorite treat! (Coffee, Ice Cream,
Cocktails, Pizza, etc.)
- An interesting car or boat
Props don't have to be lame.
Yes, the days in the 2000's with the hanging signs are over, but there are a lot of cool props you can bring to your engagement session to spice things up. These add interest to your photos and really give your session something unique and individual to the two of you.
Here are some ideas to consider to spice things up:
- Bikes, skateboards, scooters or surfboards
- A picnic (Grab a basket and fill it with delicious cheeses, fruits, and wine. Don't forget a cute blanket!)
- Champagne
- Giant balloons
- Confetti Poppers
- Trendy Sunglasses
- Hats that fit your vision
- A bouquet of flowers
- Your favorite treat! (Coffee, Ice Cream, Cocktails, Pizza, etc.)
- An interesting car or boat
If you're thinking of
We love dogs and having them in photographs! If you are considering bringing your dog to your engagement shoot, we just ask that you carefully think through if the potential stress is worth it to you. We've found that dogs are usually more difficult to get to look good in photos than the owner expects and can sometimes be a bit of a stressor for our couples. Because of this, we ask that if you bring your dog(s), you also bring a friend or family member to take care of them while they aren't in photos. We want to be sure and get some photos of just the two of you without your furry friend. That being said, we're obsessed with our Goldendoodle Goose and would totally bring him along for our own shoot!
bringing your dog
What if it rains?
If you’re from Florida, you know it rains quite often. We always check the forecast on the Weather Channel and Dark Sky apps the day before and morning of engagement sessions. For local clients where travel isn’t involved, we usually will recommend rescheduling if the weather is calling for 45% chance of rain or more during the time of our session. Sometimes we’ll be able to shift the session earlier in the day to avoid the storms. While we do usually prefer sunny days for photos, overcast can also be great as it makes for soft light and brilliant colors. We want you to love everything about your photos and your experience working with us, so if reschedule we must, reschedule we shall!
bringing your dog
If you're thinking of
We love dogs and having them in photographs! If you are considering bringing your dog to your engagement shoot, we just ask that you carefully think through if the potential stress is worth it to you. We've found that dogs are usually more difficult to get to look good in photos than the owner expects and can sometimes be a bit of a stressor for our couples. Because of this, we ask that if you bring your dog(s), you also bring a friend or family member to take care of them while they aren't in photos. We want to be sure and get some photos of just the two of you without your furry friend. That being said, we're obsessed with our Goldendoodle Goose and would totally bring him along for our own shoot!
What if it rains?
If you’re from Florida, you know it rains quite often. We always check the forecast on the Weather Channel and Dark Sky apps the day before and morning of engagement sessions. For local clients where travel isn’t involved, we usually will recommend rescheduling if the weather is calling for 45% chance of rain or more during the time of our session. Sometimes we’ll be able to shift the session earlier in the day to avoid the storms. While we do usually prefer sunny days for photos, overcast can also be great as it makes for soft light and brilliant colors. We want you to love everything about your photos and your experience working with us, so if reschedule we must, reschedule we shall!
engagement session
checklist
Set date, time and location with Joel
Review this guide for style tips
Ladies, pamper yourselves! (make that hair & makeup appointment)
Grooms- get a haircut and/or a beard trim a few days before your session.
Choose your outfits and let us know if you need opinions
Clean your ring
Pick a fun post-session date night spot
We wrote this guide to help you plan your session, but in no way is it a rulebook. This is your session, so relax- you don't have to be a pro at this! We will help you each step of the way and it's going to be a blast. Make it personal, make it about the two of you, make a date out of it, and remember, above all else, enjoy this special time together. We can’t wait to get to know you, have some fun, and create some amazing photos.
- Joel & Sammy
A final note.
engagement session
checklist
Set date, time and location with Joel
Review this guide for style tips
Ladies, pamper yourselves! (make that hair & makeup appointment)
Grooms- get a haircut and/or a beard trim a few days before your session.
Choose your outfits and let us know if you need opinions
Clean your ring
Pick a fun post-session date night spot
A final note.
We wrote this guide to help you plan your session, but in no way is it a rulebook! This is your session, so relax- you don't have to be a pro at this! We will help you each step of the way and it's going to be a blast. Make it personal, make it about the two of you, make a date out of it, and remember, above all else, enjoy this special time together. We can’t wait to get to know you, have some fun, and create some amazing photos.
- Joel & Sammy
