Places and Poses For Guaranteed Magical Engagement Photos

Even in today’s social media driven world, it can be easy to feel a little unsure before your engagement photo session. You already know how important engagement photos are, but it can be hard to shake nerves. Perhaps you’re a little camera shy, or just not sure what to do with your hands. When I saw my clients, Roxanne + Jess’, incredible engagement photos, I immediately knew I wanted to use their session as an example of all the amazing places and poses you too can use! 

The “At Home” Engagement Photos

This is a great option for those who do get especially camera shy because you can be in the comfort of your own home. (If you want tips to shake off those nerves before your engagement photos, check out this post!) In the case of Roxanne + Jess, they rented an Air Bnb near their future venue in Palm Springs so it still had all the makings of an at-home-feel but also allowed them to have something really curated. Think photos on the front porch, couch, in the kitchen cooking or even in the bedroom. I love how Roxanne barefoot in jeans and a casual shirt! It brings a sense of calm and peace to the session. 

Vintage Car Vibes

I am a huge sucker for photos of vintage cars and I love when couples use them! (For example, here, here + here). There are a ton of car services that will rent out cars just for photos, though prices will vary depending on the car + time you plan to rent it. It’s a really fun way to add some character to your photos. Bonus, if your photographer who also offers to shoot in film like Parallel 33!

Breathtaking Landscapes

I’m so excited for Roxanne  Jess’ wedding for multiple reasons, one of which is that Palm Springs is one of my favorite places for couples to get hitched! You just cannot beat the incredible views that Palm Springs and Joshua Tree have! If you’re scratching your head for places to shoot your engagement photos, lean on your photographer for ideas. However, I always suggest thinking of places that can offer breathtaking landscape view. Wide shots with you and your partner standing will always look incredible! No need for awkward posing. 

Other backdrop ideas include the beach, vineyard or even just around your town visiting your favorite spots. 

Add Bright Colors

Most of the advice you’ll read when looking up what to wear for your engagement photos will say something neutral and/or solid. And while I agree that some patterns tend to get lost in photographs, here at Feathered Arrow, we definitely love color! Therefore, if you have a favorite bright blouse that makes you feel like a movie star, please wear it! Your confidence will shine through the photo every time. Or, be like Roxanne + Jess and find another way to add color into your photos such as using smoke bombs. (I use this wedding as an example a lot too).

Matchy Matchy

Okay, this one might get me in trouble but hear me out: there is a way you and your partner can match outfits and it will look incredibly chic! I’m going to just put Roxanne + Jess’ photos here so you can see what I mean but, their style choices are incredible. The power suits cannot be denied. I’ll even bet you and your partner already have very similar looking outfits. 

With Your Furry Best Friend

As a new dog owner myself, I say bring on the pets! Having your dog, cat or other pet with you during your engagement photos is a great way to feel calm + relaxed and also to include them in your big day. They’re part of this journey too! Plus, they’re always so darn cute that you don’t have to worry about posing because they’ll always bring out your most natural self. 

I hope this helped you tackle your engagement photos! Stay tuned for the wedding of Roxanne + Jess coming at ya in 2023 from Villa Royale in Palm Springs! If you’re looking for more tips on how to tackle your wedding planning, contact me on my homepage here + let’s chat!

Vendors: 

Venue: Villa Royale

Photographer: Parallel 33