79 Engagement Photo Ideas From Real Couples

Now that you and your bae are engaged, it’s time to commemorate the momentous occasion with a romantic photoshoot. But where do you start? There are so many cheesy couples' photos and countless run-of-the-mill shots that it can be a challenge to snap a photo that is truly your own. But thankfully, you don't have to rely on those predictable poses and overdone locations.

There are a handful of things you can do to make sure your photos turn out perfectly one-of-a-kind and feel right for you and your partner. Before you jump into your session, here's what you should know about engagement photoshoots. For starters:

Location

Whether you and your significant other are world travelers or would rather just Netflix and chill, location is everything for making your engagement photos unique.

• Your Favorite Spot: Have a go-to coffee shop where the barista knows both of your orders? Or a brewery where you meet for happy hour every week? Use these personal spots as inspiration for your engagement shoot to save the memories of these places for years to come.
• Your Next Vacation: Planning a trip together (engagement-moon, anyone?) is one of the most exciting parts of prepping for your big day. If you're heading to a particularly gorgeous location, find a photographer in the region who can snap some shots in front of that city skyline or national park mountainside.
• Your First Date: You'll feel all the feels with this one. Revisit the spot of your first date together for a few of your photos, even if it's for your eyes only.

Poses

Unless you're a model, getting "candid" shots will probably feel anything but natural—but there are a few simple ways to help ease any discomfort.

• PDA: From simple handholding to sexy, bikini-clad kisses, showing off some public displays of affection always makes for a sweet photo. Pretend like the photographer isn't watching and embrace your partner the way you would when you're alone—as long as it's G-rated.
• Using Props: Are you both bookworms? Or love to ride the waves? Incorporate your favorite book into your shot or show off your matching surfboards for a picture that is 100 percent you. Our personal favorite prop? Adding smoke bombs for a pretty and playful pop of color.
• Candid Shots: We know it's easier said than done, but sometimes, candid moments make the best photos. Act natural in your location of choice (by sampling hops at a brewery or picking out music at a record store) to create a laid-back feeling to your engagement photos.

Colors

• Black and White: For a timeless, striking look to your photos, opt to have your photographer edit your favorites in black and white. The contrast can be simple but will result in stunning shots.
• Dramatic Colors: On the opposite end of the spectrum (pun intended), you can use the unique colors of your shoot's locale to find a color palette that puts any Instagram filter to shame. Talk to your photographer beforehand to see how they can edit your pictures in a style that fits you.
• Consider Your Wardrobe: While you don't want to match your partner, you'll want to make sure your colors complement one another. Opt for pastels, neutrals, and cool shades.

Timing

• Golden Hour: Sunset (or Golden Hour, as most Instagram users would call it) is the perfect time to capture a beautiful shot that guarantees great lighting. The red, soft hues will make for an intimate feel in your snaps.
• Nighttime: Use the starry sky or pretty lights (like those on a ferris wheel, for example) to give a pop to your nighttime pics.
• Unexpected Weather: No raining on your parade! Torrential rain, snowstorms, and overwhelming heat aren't ideal, but that doesn't mean your photo is ruined. Use the inclement weather to your advantage by adding a pretty umbrella or taking your photos to a nearby snow-covered forest.

With those tips in mind, take a look at how the following couples did it; lighthearted and fun or glamorous and chic, these engagement photo ideas are sure to inspire you.