49 Stunning Engagement Photos You're Going to Want to Imitate ASAP (2024)

Whether you're going for playful, chic, or downright dramatic, here are the best photos to inspire your own.

By Heather Hall
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The concept of an engagement shoot may seem over-the-top to some, but a pre-wedding session with your photographer will get you both comfortable in front of the camera. In some cultures, engagement shoots are traditional and customary, rather than an optional addition to your wedding photography. Whether you're planning an engagement session to test the waters with your chosen photographer or to get a first round of professional photos together before the wedding, it's important to home in on the vibe, look, and feel these photos will take.

Engagement shoots don't necessarily have to be serious. Ask yourself: Are you looking to emulate a chic editorial? Capture candid, romantic moments? Or have simple, straightforward portraits to share with family?

From the waters of Capri to the comfort of one's own home, we've rounded up a selection of stunning engagement photos, captured by some of the best photographers in the world. Keep scrolling for lighting inspiration, poses to keep in mind, and ideas of what to use as your backdrop (and where).

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When considering what time of day to take your photographs, our vote is golden hour—always.

Photo by: Diktat Photography

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Opt for a far-flung or local location that reflects you as a couple. Then, dress the part.

Photo by: Igor Demba

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Take a stroll through your neighborhood and take your photographer with you.

Photo by: Mo Davis

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Work with your photographer in advance to get inspired and create a look that feels authentic to you as a couple. Re-create the vibe of photographs and films that speak to you; think modern-day Slim Aarons, Helmut Newton, or the look of an Old Hollywood film for iconic shots of the two of you together.

Photo by: Christian Oth

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Ditch the heels and climb the mountain. Barefoot photos of you having a moment are the kind of easygoing and effortless shots you'll cherish the most.

Photo by: KT Merry

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Plan an activity that you'll both enjoy, like a boat trip, a hike, or a day by the pool. Then, style yourselves for the moment and experience it all with your photographer along for the ride.

Photo by: Anée Atelier

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In a wide landscape, find a focal point; let your surroundings do the rest.

Photo by: Jose Villa

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If your most connected and intimate moments are spent at home, invite your photographer to dinner or drinks and let them do what they do best.

Photo by: John Dolan

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Retro-style vibes at sunset make for cinematic moments rather than posed photos.

Photo by: Allan Zepeda

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Why not dress up? Get glammed up for your photos, and then make it look effortless—even at home.

Photo by: Abby Jiu

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Sometimes, all you need is the comfort of your home for a sweet and candid photo op. To keep it from looking contrived, try to tap into how you feel when the two of you are alone; it may be a challenge at first, but do your best to forget your photographer is in the room.

Photo by: Dearheart Photos

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For city dwellers, hop on the train or catch a cab; give your photographer the front seat.

Photo by: Heather Waraksa

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Be playful and don't discount the in-between moments. There's often beauty in the blurriness; keep in mind that when reviewing a photographer's work, not everything has to be pin-sharp.

Photo by: Elizabeth LaDuca

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Have fun with your fashion. Use your engagement session as a time to wear looks you don't think you'll have a place for on the wedding weekend, but that you love just the same.

Photo by: Sarah Falugo

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Drone shots captured far ahead make for lifelong keepsakes and art to hang in your newlywed home.

Photo by: Kama Catch Me Photography

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Tap into the glamour of old films, and a nod to mod styling, for a street style shoot all your own.

Photo by: Belathée

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Get creative with venue choices and opt for locations that speak to your story—like this couple who ventured to New York City's Top of the Rock for their engagement session at sunset.

Photo by: Christian Oth Studio

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Take your photo session off the beaten path and let the natural backdrop set the stage for an intimate moment.

Photo by: Brandon Scott Photography

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Plan ahead; photos like this gravity-defying boat ride involve one captain-driven boat for you and your beau, and another separate ride for your photographer to capture you at sea.

Photo by: Sylvie Gil

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Embrace your heritage, love of fashion, and locations that matter to you as individuals and as a couple.

Photo by: Elizabeth Austin Photography

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Heather Hall

Contributing Weddings Writer

Heather Hall is a weddings, fashion, and lifestyle writer and editor. Her career in weddings began at The Knot, where she worked as a bridal fashion editor. She then worked as a PR Manager at Amsale, a bridal design house, before starting her ownevents and digital marketing business. She has been featured on Today.com, MSN.com, Yahoo.com, Racked.com,Huffington Post, Verily Magazine, andStyle Me Pretty. Heather loves music, travel, and practicing yoga. In her spare time she's typicallyresearching the next fun workout class to try, orfinding a new concert to attend. Her latest goal: become a DJ.

49 Stunning Engagement Photos You're Going to Want to Imitate ASAP (2024)

FAQs

What is the best color to wear for engagement photos? ›

Choose light, soft, neutral tones.

This is totally a personal preference, but my style of photography lends itself best to lighter, airier tones — like white, beige, and taupe — and pastels — like dusty blue, blush, etc. I find that neutral outfits are so romantic and timeless, and help to keep the focus on you!

How soon after getting engaged should you take engagement pictures? ›

When should you take engagement photos? If you're looking to use your images for save-the-dates, the traditional time to take them is 6-8 months before your wedding. However, that doesn't mean you can't take them earlier or later!

How many photos should I get for engagement photos? ›

For me it's about 80-100 fully edited images. My typical Engagement Session goes for 1 Hour which is plenty of time to walk around and capture heaps of amazing photos for my couples. If you did want a longer session of say 90 minutes to 2 hours then you could get yourself up to 150 fully edited images.

Why are engagement photos important? ›

Having an engagement shoot with your photographer gives you a chance to understand how they will be on your wedding day – how they offer direction (or if they offer direction at all), how long do they spend capturing each pose, how do they make you feel during your time together.

What not to wear for engagement photos? ›

01 Avoid Small, Close Prints , Patterns and Logos

These tend to not photograph as well. Staying away from small, tight stripes and prints will save your engagement photos! Logos distract from the subject and relationships (aka you & your love story!). Instead, wear solid colored pieces that compliment each other!

What is the best outfit to wear for engagement photos? ›

Long, flowy dresses and skirts look amazing on camera — they add movement to your clothing that tends to be very flattering and natural-looking. That being said, if you're a very casual couple that hates to dress up, don't feel pressured to wear anything that you don't actually like.

How late is too late for engagement photos? ›

If you're reading this, you know that timing is key when it comes to capturing the perfect engagement photos, especially if you're planning to use them for your save-the-date cards. Ideally, scheduling your engagement session with your photographer should happen within a 6-9 month window before your wedding day.

What is the difference between proposal photos and engagement photos? ›

On the other hand, engagement photos are taken after the proposal when the couple is officially engaged. They are typically more planned and staged than proposal photos, and are taken in various locations that are special to the couple.

What time of day is best for engagement photos? ›

Usually it's right after sunrise or before sunset so that the sun is on the horizon line which provides more flattering light for portraits. The worst time of day I'd midday, like 2pm, because the sun is harsh and casts shadows on your face.

How long should engagement photos last? ›

1 Hour Engagement Photo Session

During this time, you'll be getting comfortable in front of the camera, warming up to your wedding photographer, capturing great photos, and having fun all in one session.

How early is too early for engagement photos? ›

As a general rule, if you want to be able to use your engagement images for save-the-dates or your wedding website, then you should plan on booking your session no less than 6-8 months before the wedding day.

What should I bring to my engagement photos? ›

Here are the 10 things that I have consistently noticed help engagement photo sessions be the best they can be.
  • A plan.
  • Neutral, coordinating clothing.
  • Two to three outfit changes - each!
  • Extra clothing to keep you warm/cool if your photographed outfits won't cut it.
  • A pretty blanket to sit on.
Apr 27, 2022

Do I have to wear makeup for engagement photos? ›

Apply a clean base, a little blush, mascara, fill in the eyes brows, add some lips and you're ready to go. If you're one to not leave the house without looking perfect, then stick with that. Just keep in mind the mood and setting for your engagement session. Have your makeup and hair match the style of the shoot.

Do you need professional makeup for engagement photos? ›

Make no mistake: professional hair and makeup make a difference!” Brides often inquire about scheduling their wedding day trial for their engagement photos. While I highly recommend having your hair and makeup done, I do not necessarily recommend using the session as a wedding day look preview.

Is it okay to not get engagement photos? ›

Some people like to include photos of themselves on their save-the-dates and/or invitations, for which a well-shot engagement photo can make a great pick. If you and your partner would rather not include a photo of yourselves on either of these things, though, that's A-OK, too.

Should you wear your hair up or down for engagement photos? ›

Ultimately, the decision of whether to wear your hair up or down for your photoshoot comes down to personal preference and what makes you feel comfortable and confident. Remember, your photoshoot is a celebration of your story, and your hairstyle should reflect who you are.

Should I wear black for engagement photos? ›

However, black is not always the best choice. It is advisable to wear bright hues that will pop from the background. Those are some of the essential tips on what to wear during your engagement photos. It is important to make your images reflect something about you as a couple.

What colors not to wear for an engagement party? ›

Women should never wear white dresses to anything wedding related, including the engagement party. Gowns that could resemble wedding dresses in more formal spaces should also be avoided.

Should I wear makeup for engagement photos? ›

Getting Hair & Makeup Can Make You Feel More Confident

Not everybody spends a ton of time in front of the camera, so having these beauty treatments done can give you a sense of confidence. If you are camera shy, getting your makeup done can make you feel more comfortable being photographed at your engagement shoot.

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