Engagement photo shoots we’re loving
There’s something magical about a photo that catches you mid-laugh or mid-look: unfiltered, in the moment, a bit messy in the best way. The engagement photo shoots we’re into right now get that balance right. They’re styled without trying too hard, polished without losing personality. Nothing stiff, nothing fake. Just you, the vibe, and the kind of energy that actually feels like your relationship.
If you’re on the fence about whether to have an engagement photo shoot, consider this: it’s not just about getting content for your save-the-dates. It’s a low-pressure chance to get to know your wedding photographer, figure out what works for you on camera, and set the tone for your wedding-day photos (without the rush or nerves).
As one Reddit user shared, “I feel like I’m less worried about pictures on the wedding day because we did the engagement shoot and I now know for certain that our photographer will make us look amazing (I normally hate how I look in photos).” That kind of reassurance is priceless when you’re juggling timelines and emotions on the big day.
There’s also the unexpected perk of flexibility. As one Reddit bride put it, “One bonus of doing engagement: you get to ‘control’ the weather. We had to reschedule [twice] because it rained. On our engagement shoot day we had a gorgeous sunset with amazing lighting!” Unlike your wedding day, you can wait for the right moment. And that freedom can make all the difference.
Whether you’re newly engaged or simply daydreaming, here are the engagement photo shoot trends we can’t stop bookmarking.
1. Golden hour glow
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Always timeless, never tired: the golden hour engagement photo shoot remains a favourite for good reason. That fleeting window just after sunrise or before sunset casts everything in a warm, honeyed light that flatters skin tones and adds a soft-focus dreaminess to every frame. There’s something cinematic about it, like the closing scene of a romance film where everything finally makes sense. Whether you’re barefoot in a field or dressed to the nines against city architecture, golden hour makes it magic.
2. Retro flash photography
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Flash is having its moment. Sharp, bright, and unapologetically bold, this style leans into the gritty-glam feel of old paparazzi shots or early 2000s party pics. Think: a little blur, a lot of personality, and a whole lot of fun. It’s raw and real with a deliberate edge… and it brings a vibe that says, “We’re not here to be perfect; we’re here to be iconic.”
3. Styled picnic setup
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Less cheesy, more chic. A styled picnic engagement photo shoot brings together all the charm of an alfresco date with the thoughtful curation of an editorial spread. Linen throws, charcuterie boards, champagne coups, and low-slung florals are just about all the effort you need to bring this to life. Whether in a vineyard, under a tree canopy, or on a secluded beach, these shoots offer a romantic setting that feels intimate, effortless, and beautiful on camera.
4. The “editorial” engagement photo shoot
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For the fashion-forward couple, nothing beats a full-blown editorial shoot. These are styled like magazine spreads, complete with tailored outfits, strong poses, high-contrast lighting, and maybe even a wind machine or two. The idea? To tell a story. To serve a little drama. To look like you stepped off the pages of a style publication. It’s not about being stiff or overly serious; it’s about capturing chemistry with a high-fashion lens.
5. Coastal or cliffside
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If sweeping landscapes are more your thing, head for the coast. The wind, the waves, the textured rocks: they all contribute to something visceral and romantic. Coastal and cliffside shoots feel expansive and moody, often stripped back to let the landscape lead. There’s also something deeply metaphorical about standing on the edge of something vast together. Bonus points for a windswept veil or a hem trailing in the tide.
6. Black and white engagement photo shoot series
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There’s a certain gravity to black and white photography. By removing the distraction of colour, what remains is pure connection: glances, touch, expression. A black and white series in your engagement photo shoot adds depth and contrast, creating imagery that feels both classic and contemporary. It pairs beautifully with candid moments and dramatic close-ups, making even the simplest setting feel elevated.
7. Iconic location
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For couples drawn to meaningful landmarks, why not go big? Shooting at an iconic location (whether it’s a heritage building, a renowned garden, or a recognisable city backdrop) instantly adds gravitas to your photos. The trick is choosing a location that resonates. Somewhere you’ve shared a milestone, or simply a place you love. Paired with thoughtful styling, it’s a way to blend personal narrative with visual impact.
8. Old school photo booth
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Sweet, silly, and slightly nostalgic, an old school photo booth shoot brings charm in spades. Whether it’s a real booth at your local arcade or a professional setup styled to feel like one, this approach offers a fresh alternative to the posed-and-perfect. The appeal is in the spontaneity: mismatched expressions, mid-blink laughs, lipstick smudges, hair a little out of place. It’s giving real life but make it romanticised.
Find a wedding photographer who gets you
At the end of the day, an engagement photo shoot isn’t just about the aesthetic. For many couples, it’s about finally having a few photos that feel like them: beyond the selfies or quick snaps taken by strangers on a holiday. As one bride on Reddit shared, “We have very few nice photos of us together… most of them are selfies or photos other people along hiking trails have taken for us.”
An engagement photo shoot gives you the chance to document a milestone intentionally, and beautifully. You won’t always have a reason to get professional photos taken. But this one? It’s worth making the time for.
Ready to plan your engagement photo shoot? Explore our directory of trusted wedding photographers on Easy Weddings to find someone who gets your style, understands the brief, and knows how to capture you at your best. No awkward posing required.
