How to Choose the Perfect Location for Your Engagement Session: A Wedding Photographer’s Guide

As a wedding photographer, one of my favorite parts of the process is shooting engagement sessions with my couples. These sessions are more than pretty photos, they’re a chance to tell your story, ease into being in front of the camera, and create memories long before the wedding day. One of the most important decisions in that process is choosing the right location. Here’s my best advice to help you pick a spot that feels authentic, meaningful, and logistically smooth.

1. Choose a Location That Means Something to You

The best engagement photos are the ones that feel personal. Think about places tied to your relationship:

• The café where you went on your first date

• Your favorite hiking trail

• A neighborhood you love exploring together

• The place where the proposal happened

• Your home; yes, at-home sessions can be incredibly intimate and beautiful

Photos become more than images when they’re rooted in your story. If a location makes you smile, sparks nostalgia, or represents a shared interest, that’s a great sign it will photograph well.

2. Consider Low-Traffic or Private Spots

Crowded areas can be stressful. You might feel self-conscious, you’ll spend more time waiting for people to clear the background, and it can break the creative flow.

Look for locations that tend to be quieter during your scheduled time, nature preserves, private properties, small downtown areas, or tucked-away urban gems. If you’re dreaming of a popular spot, try scheduling for sunrise or a weekday evening to avoid foot traffic.

3. Make Sure You Have Permission to Shoot

This one is often overlooked. Not every location allows professional photography, and some places require advance notice.

Before your session, confirm:

• Whether photography is allowed

• Whether you need a permit

• Whether the property has any restrictions (like “no tripods” or time limits)

I’m always happy to handle the permit process if needed, but being aware of the rules early helps us avoid surprises.

4. Check for Any Fees or Permit Costs

Some venues such as parks, museums, historic sites, and private estates charge photography fees. These can range from a few dollars to a few hundred depending on the location.

Knowing this ahead of time helps you decide whether it fits your budget or whether we should explore alternative spots that offer a similar vibe without the extra cost.

5. Keep the Season and Lighting in Mind

Different locations shine in different seasons:

• Forests glow with fall color

• City streets feel magical with holiday lights

• Fields look lush in late spring

• Lakes and waterfronts photograph beautifully at sunrise or sunset

Think about how the location will look during your session’s time of year. I can help guide you to spots that offer consistent lighting, minimal harsh shadows, and beautiful backdrops for the season.

6. Match the Location to Your Outfits

Your outfits don’t need to match the location, but they should complement it. Soft neutrals look gorgeous in nature; bold colors can pop against an urban backdrop. If you’re planning something more elevated like a flowy dress or a suit, choosing a location with open space or architecture can tie the look together.

I’m always happy to help you coordinate outfits based on the aesthetic you’re going for.

7. Think About Accessibility and Comfort

If you’re wearing heels, a long dress, or formal attire, a rugged trail might not be the best choice. Likewise, if mobility or long walks are a concern, pick a location with easy access and nearby parking.

You want to feel relaxed and comfortable, not exhausted or stressed before we even start shooting.

8. Be True to Yourselves

At the end of the day, your engagement session should feel like you. Don’t choose a location just because it’s trendy or because you saw someone else’s photos there. Choose the place where you can laugh, be playful, be affectionate, and feel connected.

If you’re unsure, I’m always excited to brainstorm options that reflect who you are as a couple.

Final Thoughts

Your engagement photos are a celebration of your story; where you’ve been, where you are now, and where you’re heading together. With the right location, the right planning, and a photographer who helps you feel comfortable every step of the way, your session becomes an experience as meaningful as the images themselves.

If you've booked a session with me, I have a detailed location guide of some of my favorite spots that I can send you full of inspiration photos to help you make your decision. I am always open to shooting somewhere new so don't hesitate to suggest a location not in my guide.