OMG, you’re engaged!! Engagement season is such a fun time! I’m sure you’re feeling pretty overwhelmed with all of the things to check off your wedding planning list. My hope is that this blog helps ease the stress of planning your engagement session for your save the dates and shows you exactly how to make this moment feel just like a sweet date night with the love of your life!! Feel free to save this guide for later when you’re prepping for your engagement shoot and want to make sure you know exactly how to get that dreamy couples shoot that feel like you! 

How to Make your Couples Session Feel Like a Date Night 

Alright, let me be real for a second. You don’t need to know how to take good photos to nail your couples shoot and get engagement shots you’ll treasure for years. Especially when you’re working with a documentary-style photographer, there’s no need to stress or copy and paste every idea from your Pinterest board. Instead, check out these 10 tips below to help you create the beautiful, authentic engagement photos you’ve been dreaming of—no copying required! 😉

1. Choose a Romantic Location

Pick a cozy café, scenic park, favorite beach, go-to mountain trail, or your home where you can be more intimate and relaxed.

2. Dress for the Occasion

Wear outfits that make you feel good and confident, and focus on personal styles that reflect your relationship.

Here’s a quick Engagement Photo Outfit Guide: 

• Opt for neutral tones
• Bold colors look best in front of the camera with minimal prints 
• Avoid being matchy-matchy 
• Don’t blend too much into your scenery 
• A meaningful outfit for the couples shoot
• Textured fabric always adds a beautiful dimension to your photos – think corduroy, silk, denim, etc.
  

3. Bring Props to Your Couples Shoot

Include items like a picnic blanket, a bottle of wine, or a bouquet of flowers to add a personal touch.

4. Incorporate Playfulness (AKA Have Fun!)

Engage in fun activities like laughing, dancing, or playing games to capture those heartfelt moments that make your cheeks hurt from smiling so much!

5. Bring Snacks

Share some of your favorite snacks or treats during the shoot for a more casual and enjoyable experience. 

P.S. A stop for ice cream is always a great idea 😉

6. Plan a Mini Adventure

Include activities you both love, like walking, hiking, or exploring new spots, to make the session more dynamic.

7. Use Natural Lighting:

Schedule your shoot during the golden hour for softer, more flattering light – setting the tone for a romantic vibe.

8. Have Music Playing

Bring a portable speaker with your favorite songs to set the mood and feel more relaxed during your couples shoot.

9. Incorporate Candid Moments

Instead of just posed shots, book a photographer that gives subtle prompts to create more meaningful, in-the-moment photos.

10. Focus on Connection

Keep the focus on each other—whisper to each other, share inside jokes, or reminisce about your favorite memories.

By incorporating these 10 couples shoot tips, your photoshoot can become a fun, romantic experience that feels just like a date night!

How to Not Look Awkward in Your Engagement Photos

These are all so important to remember during your session. Plus nobody is comfortable in front of a camera so it helps if your photographer can use some of these tools to help make your experience more comfortable. It’s so important to let your photographer know certain things about the both of you that might help them think of ways on how to get the right pictures done!

This couple’s shoot was shot in September during the beautiful fall season! It perfectly captured the fun and playful vibes of [couples names] who met in college! 

If you’re planning your own engagement photos, make it feel more like a date by incorporating activities you both love. Whether it’s exploring your favorite spots, grabbing coffee, or just being silly together, a photoshoot doesn’t have to be stiff or stressful—it can be truly so much fun. Don’t be afraid to try new things either! The more comfortable and authentic you feel, the more your photos will reflect the true beauty of your love for each other. 

Head to my Instagram and let me know which couples shoot tip is the most helpful! Oh, and if you’re a Pinterest girly, it would mean the world to me if you saved this blog to reference later for your engagement/couples shoot! Simply hover over the photo below and press, “save”!

Photography for Couples | Queanna Lynn Photography 

Hey there! I’m Queanna, a Destination Wedding and Elopement photographer that is based in New Mexico. I am always up for an adventure out of state! I’m all about capturing the raw and authentic moments that leave a lasting impression in your memory. Think we would be a great fit together? Get in touch, here!