There are a lot of things to consider when you’re preparing for an engagement photo session. And there’s a lot of advice on how to get ready for your session. Even we have a blog post about 3 Ways to Prepare for Your NJ Engagement Session.

Choosing an outfit, practicing your PDA, and checking the weather is valid advice. But we have some extra points to tack on regarding picking your location. 

Because, let’s face it, choosing the right location is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning your engagement session (other than hiring the best engagement photographer *wink*). 

That’s why we’ve compiled a list of four key factors to consider when selecting your engagement session location. By ensuring that your chosen spot checks these four boxes, you can be confident you’ll have a beautiful and meaningful backdrop for your photos.

☑️Does it Fit Your Personality? 

Every couple is unique, so what works for the picnic-loving pair may not vibe for those who prefer a luxe dinner out. Consider your couple’s personality and how you can incorporate that into your engagement session location. Are you adventurous and outgoing, or more laid-back and romantic? 

If you’re an adventurous couple who loves to explore the outdoors, consider a location with opportunities for hiking or biking. Think about areas with breathtaking views, like a mountain range or coastal cliff, that will provide a stunning backdrop for your photos. You could even consider taking your photos during a camping trip or on a wilderness excursion.

If you’re a more romantic couple, you might prefer a serene location like a botanical garden, vineyard, or scenic park. Look for sites with beautiful flowers and foliage or quiet nooks where you can steal a kiss or cuddle up together. 

And for those who love the hustle and bustle of the city, an urban setting might be a perfect choice. Think about locations with tall buildings, busy streets, and unique architecture that will create a modern, edgy feel. City parks, graffiti-covered alleyways, and rooftops are ideal.

☑️Does it Tell a Personal Story?

Your engagement session is an opportunity to tell your love story through images. One way to do this is by incorporating locations with special meaning to you as a couple. Think about the places where you met, where you had your first date, where you fell in love, or where you shared a significant moment. 

For example, if you and your partner met in college, you might take your engagement photos on your alma mater’s campus. Or, if you and your fiancé love hiking, you could take photos on a scenic trail you’ve hiked together. 

In addition to location, you can incorporate your personal story into your poses and props. Let’s say you love cooking together, so we take photos in your kitchen or at a local farmer’s market. You could pose with your favorite recipe book or fresh produce. 

The aim is to find a location that tells a meaningful story, and you’ll receive photos that do the same. 

☑️Is it Practical?

You’ve found a place that fits your personality, and it’s meaningful. But is it practical? This is when you have to think about the reality of a location.

Let’s take Central Park, for example. The appeal is obvious for couples who want city vibes with pretty greenery. But the problems sometimes outweigh the benefits. The main issue is that it’s crowded, so if you don’t like being the center of attention or feel awkward being in front of the camera (even when other people aren’t around), you may not enjoy the experience. 

We’ll make it work if you have your heart set on an iconic location like Central Park or the Brooklyn Bridge. And we’re not saying you’ll be nervous, but what we’ve seen in the past is that some couples have had a hard time being themselves when people are walking behind them – sometimes making comments. 

The moral of the story – really think about what it will be like to have an engagement session in that particular place before saying yes.

☑️Do You Have Permission?

The last thing we want to happen is that we arrive fired up, ready to go, and then get asked to leave because we don’t have a permit. 

As professional photographers, we’re always on top of this before an engagement session. We make sure we have the right paperwork filled out and the correct permits to show. 

You may have to obtain the permit depending on the location, but we’ll always let you know. Either way, when you work with us, you’ll never have to worry that your engagement session will get ruined over a piece of paperwork. 

So, does your engagement session location check the four boxes? 

1. Personality
2. Personal
3. Practical
4. Permission

If not, it doesn’t mean it’s not the one. You might just want to review and make a few small tweaks. And remember to reach out and let us know which place you’ve chosen!