20 of the Best Engagement Photo Ideas Ever (2025)

If you’re looking for the best engagement photo ideas, you’ve come to the right place! We feel extremely blessed to work with the most amazing wedding photographers in the industry and share Real Weddings and engagement photo ideas with you on a regular basis. When we feature a new engagement shoot, I can always recall a specific detail, like the surprise proposal, the rowboat, or the impromptu Scrabble game. When you’re planning, remember that the best engagement photo ideas are all about the details. Your location(s), attire, props, and the season you choose will contribute to a more memorable engagement session. Also, selecting an amazing engagement photographer is very important: he or she will be essential in properly bringing your engagement photo ideas to fruition and capturing you at your very best. To inspire you, we’ve rounded up twenty of the best engagement photo ideas… and I think you’re going to love what we’ve discovered! What’s your favorite?

photos by justin battenfield | see the full shoot here

1. The Pickup Truck

This photo – by Justin Battenfield – is one of my all-time favorite engagement photos ever. And it reminds me of this song. I love the cowboy boots hanging off the edge of the truck!


photos by justin battenfield | see the full shoot here

2. The Ampersand

You & Me. She & Him. Us & Forever. Here & Now. An ampersand is one of the essential engagement photo ideas. Photo by Stripling Photography.


photo by stripling photography | see the full shoot here

3. The Ocean

Waves. Sand. Who-cares-if-our-feet-get-wet. Love. Photo by Eric Boneske.


photos by eric boneske photography | see the full shoot here

4. The Library

The library stacks can be a very romantic place. By Michelle Gardella.

photo by michelle gardella | see the full shoot here

5. The Hot Rod

One hot car, aviators, and a totally adorable couple. Check, check, and check. By Photography by Jen Philips.

by photography by jen philips | see the full engagement shoot here

6. The Blanket

Perfect for that snuggled-up shot, By Justin Battenfield. This is an especially perfect prop for the fall!


photo by justin battenfield | see the full engagement shoot here

Loving this one, too, by the lake. By Stripling Photography.

photo by stripling photography | see the full shoot here

7. The Snow

Snow is a fantastic winter engagement photo idea, and the result is usually a snowball fight (which makes it even more fun). By Amy Carroll Photography.


photos by amy carroll photography | see the full engagement shoot here

8. The Pub

This couple is so in love, they don’t even seem to notice they’re on camera. By Cheatwood Photography.

by cheatwood photography | see the full post here

9. The Train

Steal a few kisses on a train. By RubySky Photography.

by rubysky photography | see the full post here

10. The Chalkboards

Chalkboards are one of the most popular engagement photo ideas right now and for good reason: this is one prop that can display your upcoming wedding date or custom message right in your photo. By Eric Boneske.

20 of the Best Engagement Photo Ideas Ever (16)

photo by eric boneske | see the full engagement shoot here

11. The Surprise Proposal

Horacio took Courtney to the beach for a romantic walk, but secretly hired Eric Boneske to capture a surprise proposal, making this one of the best engagement photo ideas (and proposal ideas) of all time. By Eric Boneske.

photo by eric boneske | see the full engagement shoot here

12. The Coat

Aw. Such a sweet shot. By Justin Battenfield.

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by justin battenfield | see the full engagement shoot here

13. The Church Pew

We featured this engagement session yesterday and the church pew quickly made our list of top engagement photo ideas. By Zack Wilson Photography.

by zack wilson photography | see the full engagement shoot here

14. The Vineyard

Ah, outdoors in rows of vineyards: a perfect setting. By Eric Boneske Photography.


photo by eric boneske photography | see the full engagement shoot here

15. The Local Hot Spot / Artwork in Town

Where’s your favorite place to hang out? Do you have a favorite local attraction? Make sure it’s on your engagement photo location list. We have a few examples for this one. First, a shot of the couple in front of Thomas Oyster Co., captured by Michelle Gardella Photography20 of the Best Engagement Photo Ideas Ever (22)

by michelle gardella | see the full engagement shoot here

… a huge wall mural in Miami by Photos by Mavi

20 of the Best Engagement Photo Ideas Ever (23)

photo by photos by mavi | see the full engagement shoot here

… and, last but not least, the Detroit Train Station, a local architectural marvel. By Sarah Kossuch.

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by sarah kossuch | see the full engagement shoot here

16. The Wine Barrels

A winery is a beautiful place to have an engagement shoot. This shot is one of my favorites from this shoot. By Eric Boneske.


by eric boneske | see the full shoot here

17. The Alma Mater

This couple wanted to include their alma mater, where they met, into their engagement photos. By Justin Battenfield.


photo by justin battenfield | see the full engagement shoot here

Another way to do so? Take your engagement photos to your college campus, like this lecture hall shot by Erin J. Photography.

photo by erin j. photography | see the full engagement shoot here

18. The Greenhouse

Ah, love in the greenhouse. by Michelle Gardella Photography.


by michelle gardella | see the full engagement shoot here

19. The Scrabble Board

One of the most memorable engagement photo ideas involves props or activities, like this Scrabble board. This shot gets a triple word score just for being awesome. By Justin Battenfield.


by justin battenfield | see the full engagement shoot here

20. The Pups

Don’t leave your pups out of the fun! I love this shot because it shows their neighborhood and interaction with their pups. By Justin Battenfield.

by justin battenfield | see the full engagement shoot here

And, this cutie with a bow tie on. By Charity Maurer.

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by charity maurer | see the full engagement shoot here

And, the best prop of them all? That big ‘ol smile.


by justin battenfield | see the full engagement shoot here

Looking for a wedding photographer to capture your engagement photo ideas? Visit The Bridal Book at Emmaline Bride, our state-by-state preferred wedding vendor directory. Our preferred wedding vendors are hand-picked and the very best in the industry.

Happy Planning!


-E.

P.S. “I’m engaged… now what?” Find out 5 Things to Do After Getting Engaged.

P.S.S. Have you grabbed yours yet?

Like it? Please share it with a friend!

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Emma Arendoski

Emma is the CEO of Emmaline Bride, The Handmade Wedding Blog, published author, leading wedding expert, and wedding planner. Read her latest book: The Inspired Wedding. Wife, mother, coffee lover. Follow on Instagram and at Emmaline Baby for baby + kids inspiration.

20 of the Best Engagement Photo Ideas Ever (2025)

FAQs

What is the best color to wear for engagement photos? ›

By avoiding ultra-bright, bold colors, it will help bring all the attention to your faces, and let the eye focus on the way you and your emotions. The camera loves shades of soft pink and muted blues, mixed with sophisticated light neutrals like heather gray, creams, leather brown and white.

What colors to wear for couples photos? ›

You can either go for a matching look of neutrals (for example, all white, white and jean, etc.), or mix and match colors that go well together (for example, whites, pinks, blues, etc.). Contrasting outfits also look really good – for example, a light colored top with dark colored pants, or vice versa.

What do you comment on someone's engagement picture? ›

Compliments
  • “You two are so right together. ...
  • “I just love it when two wonderful people decide to spend their lives together.”
  • “Here's to your engagement! ...
  • “I'm smiling just thinking about your smile in the proposal photo. ...
  • “If ever a couple deserved this much happiness, it's you two.”
Aug 28, 2020

What not to wear for engagement photos? ›

01 Avoid Small, Close Prints , Patterns and Logos

These tend to not photograph as well. Staying away from small, tight stripes and prints will save your engagement photos! Logos distract from the subject and relationships (aka you & your love story!). Instead, wear solid colored pieces that compliment each other!

How many outfits do you wear for engagement photos? ›

Some couples love an excuse to go all out on a fun, dressed up outfit. Others prefer a more casual, but polished look. It is entirely up to you, but most of my couples choose to wear two outfits at their engagement session. One “us on a cute, casual date” outfit and one more formal outfit.

What color represents couples? ›

Red is the symbol of love, romance, and desire, making it the ideal color for a day with that special someone.

How to dress for a couple photoshoot? ›

If you wear the same exact color you will blend together in the photos. Avoid both wearing jeans, mix it up! Think layers, texture, accessories, flowy materials... this will add interest and variety to your photos without even needing an outfit change.

How to style dress for pictures? ›

What to wear to a photoshoot
  1. Dark clothing tends to slenderise. ...
  2. Tone down bright colours. ...
  3. Light clothing can look beautifully fresh. ...
  4. Prints and patterns are a definite NO. ...
  5. Avoid short sleeve clothing and short pants. ...
  6. Don't over accessorise! ...
  7. Glasses. ...
  8. Make Up, Hair & Nails.

What is a good engagement quote? ›

I can't wait to spend forever with you. Cheers to forever. The easiest “yes” ever. Reliving this moment forever.

What is a good engagement message? ›

“We've always considered your love an inspiration and we're over the moon with your engagement.” “There's no doubt in my mind that you two were made for each other. May your days overflow with love and adventure.” “Wishing you years of happiness as you create a beautiful life together.

What is a sweet word for engagement? ›

Your loving relationship has enriched our family, we/I couldn't be happier that you're engaged. We/I always knew this one was meant to be family. Congratulations, we/I love you both so much!

Should I wear makeup for engagement photos? ›

Getting Hair & Makeup Can Make You Feel More Confident

Not everybody spends a ton of time in front of the camera, so having these beauty treatments done can give you a sense of confidence. If you are camera shy, getting your makeup done can make you feel more comfortable being photographed at your engagement shoot.

Should you wear your hair up or down for engagement photos? ›

The ambiance and vibe of the location can guide your decision on whether to wear your hair up or down. For instance, an updo looks stunning for a formal, elegant shoot, while loose waves or braids may be perfect for a more relaxed and natural setting.

What shoes to wear for engagement pictures? ›

Choose comfortable shoes or bring two pairs!

Engagement sessions require quite a bit of walking so make sure you feel comfortable in your shoes. Ladies, if you choose to wear heels, bring a pair of flats to change into while moving from one location to another.

Should I wear black for engagement photos? ›

However, black is not always the best choice. It is advisable to wear bright hues that will pop from the background. Those are some of the essential tips on what to wear during your engagement photos. It is important to make your images reflect something about you as a couple.

Should you wear lipstick for engagement photos? ›

Lips: Most lips benefit from definition, even when lipstick is not generally used. For a natural but polished look, try a shade or two darker than your lip color, apply lip pencil, smudged lips a bit and use a little gloss or lipstick.

What colors not to wear for an engagement party? ›

Again, white is typically reserved for the bride at any wedding-related events—so white dresses, jumpsuits, or other formal attire are a major no-no. You'll also want to avoid off-white and cream hues.

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