I know planning your engagement session can be intimidating. The decisions are sort of endless… What should you wear? What should your fiance wear? Should you get professional hair and makeup done? And the decision my clients struggle with most of all… Choosing your engagement session location.

Most of my couples love showcasing the natural beauty of their home state to give their out-of-town guests a fun preview of what to expect when they travel for the wedding. For most of my sessions, outdoor, open-air environments are always my first choice. I love shooting in wide open natural spaces because the light is divine, especially during golden hour.

Brainstorm unique places that you might have special access to that most people don’t. For example, maybe you (or someone you know) have access to an amazing location that would otherwise be off-limits, like a beautiful private estate, family ranch, exclusive country club or luxury resort. Spend a few minutes thinking about it and checking around with people in your personal and professional network. You’ll be surprised with what you come up with! If something seems out of reach, just remember: you never know until you ask!

Classic & Elegant

• Adriatica Village
• Arlington Hall
• SMU Campus
• Mandalay Canal
• Kimbell Art Museum
• An old mansion

 

Urban

• Highland Park Village
• Dallas Arts District
• Downtown Fort Worth
• Historic Downtown McKinney
• Bishop Arts District
• Uptown Dallas

 

Gardens

• Dallas Arboretum
• Fort Worth Botanic Gardens
• Tree or Flower Farm

 

Rustic

• Tandy Hills Natural Area
• Arbor Hills Nature Preserve
• Cedar Hill State Park 
• Lakeside Park
• Prairie Creek Park

 

Coastal

• White Rock Lake 
• The Harbor at Rockwall
• Rockledge Park

 

Adventure

• Sailing / Boating
• Private Airport
• Cooking class 

 

I love when couples choose a location for their session that complements their wedding. For example if you’re planning a chic, elegant wedding, it may be fitting to take your engagement portraits among the classic architecture Dallas, while a local nature center or flower-filled fields may be more fitting for a couple planning a more rustic affair. Some of the best sessions are a meaningful location to the couple. However I’m happy to make recommendations! From bluebonnet fields to apple picking and college campuses, the options for engagement session locations are endless!