How to Choose the Perfect Location for Your Couples or Engagement Photos
One of the most common questions I get from couples is, “What location do you recommend for our session?” It’s such a valid question. As a photographer based in Raleigh, I can honestly say the location possibilities are ENDLESS.
There are so many factors to consider when scheduling a photoshoot. Whether it’s an engagement session for your save-the-dates, some fridge pics for your grad photos, or it’s been too long since your family had photos taken - you deserve to have a location that is meaningful to you in some way. I always encourage couples to choose a location that feels personal to them, not just copy a spot they saw online.
So here are my top tips for choosing a photoshoot location to match your vibe:
Start with places that already feel like you
What places do you visit often? What’s your favorite date idea with your partner? Where would you choose to have lunch if you had some free time? Did you have a unique first date or a special memory with your partner at a restaurant or park nearby?
Match the location to your personal style
Everyone has a specific vibe or style, and clothes that you feel comfortable in. And there’s always one outfit that makes you feel YOU. If you are more of a city person, don’t choose a field! If you love flowers and are having a spring wedding, don’t schedule your photos in January downtown! You know yourself best, think about what your “element” would look like.
Look for variety within one location
If you have a favorite place, look around and see where a few possible photo spots may be. I love to walk around, try out new spots and add some variety to your gallery. Maybe one area really makes your outfit pop, but another area is less crowded and you feel more comfortable!
Use Pinterest as a vision tool
If you are really trying to figure out a vibe, go to Pinterest! Scroll and look for inspiration from other photoshoots that you gravitate to. See if you notice a pattern, do you like the way the photos are taken? Or do you like the location? What looks like something you could see yourself doing as well?
Talk about comfort with your partner
No one knows your relationship like you do. What’s your love language? How do you feel about PDA? What environments do you thrive in together? Do you get overwhelmed in crowded places? Are you naturally “touchy” towards one another? Talking about boundaries and comfort with your partner ahead of time ensures that you are on the same page going into our session.
Think about lighting, timing, and season
Something that may impact your session is the time of year it is and the time of day you choose. I always recommend earlier in the day or later before sunset so that the sun isn’t too harsh on you or anyone else in your photos.
Ask your photographer for guidance
Heavy on this one!! I have a long list of favorite locations, hidden gems, and places that photograph beautifully depending on your vibe. Never hesitate to ask for guidance, my goal is to make you feel comfortable and bring your vision to life.
At the end of the day, the best photo locations aren’t just pretty… they mean something to you. Your engagement session should feel like an experience, not just another checklist item. When you choose a place that fits your story, your photos naturally feel more relaxed, authentic, and cinematic!
And if you’re not sure where to start, that’s exactly what I’m here for. We’ll find a location together that feels like you so when you look back at your photos years from now, you remember the feeling just as much as the images. <3
