Your engagement is an exciting season of wedding planning, and engagement photos are a great way to capture this time together. Whether you want photos surrounded by nature, a classic portrait, or something more personal, choosing the right location can make all the difference.
Engagement sessions are often included in wedding photography packages, giving couples the opportunity to get comfortable in front of the camera before their wedding day. These photos are also perfect for save-the-dates, wedding websites, invitations, and other wedding details.
So when should you schedule your session, and where should you take your photos? We're sharing a few tips to help you plan, along with some of our favorite engagement session locations and backdrops.
When Should You Take Engagement Photos?
For most couples, scheduling engagement photos within the first few months after getting engaged is a great place to start. If you plan to use your photos for save-the-dates, try to schedule your session at least two to three months before you plan to send them.
The season you choose can also influence the overall look of your photos.
Spring: Fresh greenery, blooming trees, and softer colors.
Summer: Full greenery, longer evenings, and plenty of outdoor options.
Fall: Changing leaves, warm colors, and beautiful natural backdrops.
Winter: A simpler, more classic look with muted landscapes.
There isn't one perfect season for engagement photos. Consider the style you love and choose a time of year that fits your vision.
What Time of Day Is Best?
Most photographers recommend scheduling engagement sessions around golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset. The lighting is softer during these times, helping create natural-looking photos without the harsh shadows that come with midday sun.
Sunset sessions are especially popular because the changing light provides several different looks throughout the session. If you're taking photos in a wooded area or near the water, ask your photographer which time will provide the best lighting for that location.
Finding the Right Location for Your Engagement Photos
The location you choose can make a big difference in the overall look of your engagement photos. Think about the settings you naturally gravitate toward and what you want your photos to feel like. If you love the outdoors, a lake, wooded property, or open field can provide a beautiful natural backdrop. Waterfront locations offer open views and reflections, while wooded areas create more privacy with plenty of greenery and filtered light. Gardens and open fields are also great options, especially during spring and summer when flowers and greenery are at their fullest.
If you prefer something more classic, look for locations with interesting architecture, stone pathways, covered porches, or other details that add character without taking attention away from the two of you. You don't have to limit yourself to just one type of setting, either. Choosing a location with a few different backdrops allows your photographer to capture a variety of photos during the same session.
Seasonality is another detail worth considering. Spring and summer offer fresh greenery, fall brings changing leaves and warmer tones, and winter can provide a simpler, more neutral backdrop. Think about the scenery you love most and talk with your photographer about locations that will photograph well during your chosen season.
Engagement Photos at Hidden Springs Venue
If you've already chosen your wedding venue, you may not have to look far for the perfect engagement session location. At Hidden Springs Venue, we welcome couples to book engagement photo sessions right here on our property.
Located near Chattanooga in East Tennessee, our property offers several different backdrops for couples and photographers to enjoy.
A few favorite spots include:
Lakeside Ceremony Area: The lake, surrounding trees, and concrete ceremony aisle create a beautiful setting for waterfront portraits.
The Dock: A great option for photos overlooking the water.
Wooded Areas: Surrounded by trees and greenery, these areas offer a more natural backdrop.
Reception Barn: The barn exterior provides a classic venue setting with architectural details.
Courtyard: An open space for portraits with a different look from the wooded and lakeside areas.
One of the benefits of taking engagement photos at Hidden Springs is having several different settings available in one location. Couples can capture a variety of photographs without needing to travel between multiple spots.
It's also a great opportunity to spend more time on the property before your wedding day and become familiar with the different areas. If you're interested in scheduling an engagement session at Hidden Springs, reach out to our team to ask about availability and booking a time to visit.
What Should You Wear for Engagement Photos?
Choose outfits that feel comfortable and reflect your personal style. Many couples like to bring a second outfit to their engagement session to add variety to their photos. Consider starting with a more dressed-up look for traditional portraits, then changing into something more casual for relaxed photos. If you plan to change outfits, let your photographer know ahead of time so they can work it into the session schedule.
A Few Tips for Your Engagement Session
Before your session, take a little time to plan with your photographer. Sharing inspiration photos and discussing the locations you love can help everyone prepare.
A few additional tips:
Check the weather: Have a backup date in mind for outdoor sessions.
Allow enough time: Most sessions last one to two hours, depending on your photographer and locations.
Bring personal details: Flowers, accessories, or meaningful items can add a personal touch.
Trust your photographer: They will help guide you through poses and capture natural moments.
Enjoy the experience: Don't worry about getting every pose perfect. Some of the best photos happen in between.
Find Your Perfect Engagement Session Location
Your engagement photos are a great way to celebrate this season of life and create images you'll enjoy for years to come. Whether you prefer a waterfront setting, wooded scenery, or a more traditional backdrop, choose a location that reflects your style as a couple.
At Hidden Springs Venue, we love being part of our couples' wedding journeys, from their first tour to the wedding day itself. If you're planning a wedding near Chattanooga, we'd love to show you around our lakeside ceremony area, reception barn, courtyard, and surrounding property.
Interested in seeing Hidden Springs Venue in person? Schedule a Tour and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest for more wedding inspiration.
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