Get the insider scoop on must-have engagement photo shots that’ll make your heart skip a beat and your feed absolutely stunning!
You’re soon to get engaged (congrats, by the way, I’m literally squealing for you!), and now you’re probably wondering what the heck you’re supposed to do during that photo session. Like, do you just… stand there and look pretty? Spoiler alert: there’s so much more to it than that, and I’m here to spill all the tea on the engagement photo shots you absolutely cannot skip. Ready to dive into the ultimate engagement photo game plan? With Wedding Affair, let’s get this show on the road and make sure you walk away with photos that’ll have everyone double-tapping like crazy!
The Ring Shot (Because Duh!)
First things first, that gorgeous ring needs its moment to shine! I cannot stress this enough: your engagement photo session isn’t complete without at least three different ring shots. You know that feeling when you first put it on and couldn’t stop staring at your hand? That’s exactly the energy we want to capture.
Get a close-up of your hand with the ring front and centre. Maybe have your partner’s hand gently holding yours. It’s romantic and shows off that sparkler beautifully. Pro tip: Make sure your nails are done beforehand. Nothing ruins a perfect ring shot like chipped polish!
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The “We Just Got Engaged” Celebration Shot
Remember that pure, unfiltered joy you felt when they popped the question? That’s what we’re chasing here. This engagement photo should feel spontaneous and bursting with happiness. Think jumping, laughing, maybe even some happy tears if that’s your vibe.
Shots where couples are literally jumping from joy or doing that thing where one person spins the other around are absolutely beautiful. It might feel silly in the moment, but trust me, these photos will transport you right back to that incredible feeling every single time you look at them.
The Classic “Gazing Into Each Other’s Eyes” Portrait
Look, I know it sounds cheesy, but there’s a reason this is a staple in every engagement photo collection. When done right, it’s absolutely magical. The key is to actually connect with each other for this pose: don’t just stare blankly at your partner’s face like you’re trying to memorise it for a test.
Talk to each other during this shot. Whisper something funny, remind them of an inside joke or just tell them how much you love them. The photographer will catch those genuine micro-expressions that make these portraits feel real and intimate rather than posed and stiff.
The “Showing Off the Ring to the Camera” Shot
This one’s for all your friends and family who want to see that beautiful ring up close! It’s different from the close-up ring shot because this one includes your face and captures your excitement about showing it off.
Try holding your hand up toward the camera with the biggest smile on your face. Or go for that classic “surprised” look where you’re holding your hand up like you just noticed the ring for the first time. It’s playful and fun, and honestly? It never gets old.
The Lifestyle Shots (AKA “This Is Just How We Are” Photos)
These engagement photo ideas are all about capturing your authentic selves. Maybe you’re coffee shop people who love lazy Sunday mornings together. Perhaps you’re the adventurous type who hikes every weekend. Whatever makes you you as a couple needs to be in your engagement photo collection.
My friends who recently got engaged are total foodies, so they did some of their engagement photos at the farmer’s market where they have their weekly date. Another couple I know are gamers, so they incorporated some shots with their favourite board games. The point is: don’t be afraid to get creative and show off your personality!
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The Walking Away Shot (Trust Me on This One)
This might sound weird, but some of the most stunning engagement photos happen when you’re not even looking at the camera. There’s something so romantic about a shot of you two walking away hand-in-hand, maybe looking at each other and laughing about something.
These shots are perfect for save-the-dates or just for having a gorgeous image that feels candid and natural. Plus, if you’re camera-shy (totally get it!), these photos can feel way less intimidating than direct portraits.
The Location-Specific Shot
Whether you’re shooting at the place where you first met, had your first date or got engaged, make sure to get at least one shot that showcases the location itself. This is huge for engagement photo ideas because it adds so much story and meaning to your collection. If you got engaged on a beach, get that wide shot with the ocean in the background. If it happened in a cute little cafe, incorporate the cosy atmosphere. These photos will mean so much more to you years down the line when you want to remember not just how you looked, but where your story began.
The Detail Shots (Beyond Just the Ring)
Don’t forget about the little things that make your relationship special! Maybe it’s your matching coffee mugs, a love note or even your pets if they’re part of the shoot. These detail shots add so much personality to your engagement photo story. I absolutely love it when couples bring props that mean something to them. One couple brought the book they were both reading and another brought their dog’s leash because their pup is basically their first baby. These touches make your photos uniquely yours.
The Sunset/Golden Hour Magic
If your photographer suggests shooting during golden hour, say yes immediately! That soft, warm light is absolutely unmatched for creating dreamy, romantic engagement photos. The way it makes everything glow is pure magic. It’s like having a built-in Instagram filter, but better. Even if it means waking up early or staying out later, trust me on this one. Some of the most breathtaking engagement photo ideas come to life during these magical lighting moments.
The Candid Moments Between Poses
Here’s something most people don’t think about: some of your favourite engagement photos will probably happen between the “official” shots. When you’re adjusting your hair, when he’s making you laugh during a serious pose, when you’re both checking the photos on the back of the camera. These unguarded moments often capture the most authentic emotion.
A good photographer will be ready for these moments, but it’s worth mentioning that you want these candid shots included in your final gallery.
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Remember, your engagement photo session should tell the story of where you are right now in your relationship. Years from now, you’ll look back at these photos and remember not just how you looked, but how you felt. So relax, have fun and let your love for each other shine through every single shot.
The most important thing? Choose a photographer who gets you and your vibe, plan your outfits thoughtfully and don’t stress too much about being perfect. The best engagement photos happen when you’re just being yourselves, madly in love and excited about your future together!
