The Best Locations for Luxury Engagement Photos
Okay, let’s be real, your engagement session isn’t just a cute photo op (though, yes, the photos will be VERY cute). It’s your first big moment to document this season of life, connect with your photographer, and set the tone for your wedding style. Whether you’re planning a high-end destination wedding or an intimate estate celebration, your engagement session should feel like you! Elevated, editorial, and full of connection.
Today, I’m sharing everything you need to know to make your engagement session feel intentional, stunning, and way more than just a box to check off your wedding to-do list.
I recently photographed Leah & Jack’s engagement session at the Wrigley Mansion in Arizona, and let me just say… it was giving luxury romance. From Leah’s sparkly dress to the editorial flash photography we did after dark, everything about their session felt intentional and fun! And that’s exactly what I want for you, too.
So let’s dive into what actually makes a dreamy, editorial engagement session come to life!
Why Your Engagement Session Matters
Why does your engagement session matter? Think of it as a test run for the wedding day, but way more fun. It’s your chance to get comfortable in front of the camera (no stiff poses here!), try out your wedding-day glam or experiment with looks that feel elevated and totally you, and build a connection with your photographer (hi, it’s me!) so by the time the big day rolls around, we’re already vibing. Plus, it’s the perfect opportunity to create editorial, artful images that reflect your relationship and style—and if you’re planning a destination wedding, this is where you can start setting the tone with a location that fits your dream day.
What to Wear for Your Luxury Engagement Photos
This is where the fun begins. Your outfit can totally shift the energy of the photos—so let’s make it count.
Dress it up – Don’t be afraid to go full glam! Flowy gowns, structured suits, sequins, sparkles—whatever makes you feel like the best version of yourself.
Play with texture – Satin, velvet, tulle, lace, denim, leather—textures photograph SO beautifully and can add interest without being overly trendy.
Match the vibe – If you’re doing your session at a grand estate, bring the elegance. Beachside or coastal? Flowy, light fabrics all the way. Urban or downtown? Lean into chic and edgy.
Bring options – I always recommend at least two looks! Something more formal, and something relaxed and fun.
Coordinate, don’t match – Use complementary tones and stick to a palette that vibes with your location. Neutrals, earth tones, and soft colors always look good in luxury settings.
Where to Have Your Engagement Session
The location you choose seriously sets the tone for your entire session—it brings your vision to life, adds story and atmosphere, and helps create those jaw-dropping, editorial images that feel like you. Whether you’re into garden romance, dramatic coastlines, or big-city glam, here are some of my favorite luxury engagement session spots that always deliver the vibes:
Wrigley Mansion, AZ
Grand architecture and golden light? Say less. Leah & Jack’s session here was full of romantic, vintage glam and a little bit of sparkle.
The Biltmore Estate, NC
If you’re going for regal and iconic, this one is a dream. Historic charm, sweeping views, and all the fairytale energy.
Kestrel Park, CA
Think soft garden pathways, European-inspired architecture, and that effortlessly elegant feel. It’s straight out of a storybook.
The Trocadéro, Paris
Hello, destination chic! If Paris is part of your love story (or your wedding plans), this is the place for timeless elegance with a view of the Eiffel Tower. (Yes, I’ll absolutely hop on a plane!)
Coastal cliffs in Big Sur, CA
Wild, romantic, and perfect for the couple who wants their love story told against an epic, moody backdrop.
Santorini rooftops
Dreaming of that classic Greek island vibe? The blue domes, white walls, and ocean views are next-level stunning, perfect for destination wedding couples starting their story in style.
Let’s find the perfect place that fits your energy! I’m all about helping you choose a location that feels like a natural extension of your love story.
How to Choose a Location That Tells Your Story
When choosing a location for your engagement session, don’t feel like it has to be fancy or extravagant—it just needs to feel like you. Think about places that are part of your story: maybe it’s where you fell in love, a city you’ve always dreamed of visiting together, or somewhere that matches the vibe of your wedding day. Whether you’re drawn to cozy and intimate or bold and playful, your session should reflect your relationship. Leah & Jack’s session at Wrigley Mansion in Arizona is the perfect example—they picked it because it aligned with their wedding vision, brought out their style, and gave us the most stunning, editorial backdrop to capture their connection.
Make the Session an Experience
Your engagement session shouldn’t feel like a chore it should feel like the best kind of date night (with a camera tagging along!). Let’s turn it into something special and fun, where the photos are just one part of the whole experience. Here’s how to make it unforgettable:
Choose a time of day with dreamy light, sunset always brings that golden, romantic glow that makes everything feel extra magic
Bring your favorite drinks, snacks, or a speaker with your go-to playlist to set the mood and keep the vibes relaxed and fun
Plan a dinner or celebration afterward—you’re already dressed up, why not keep the good energy going!
Traveling for your shoot? Turn it into a full-on weekend getaway! Make memories together, soak in the new scenery, and let the adventure kick off before the big day even begins
Final Tips for the Best Engagement Photos Ever
Trust your photographer – I’ll guide you the whole time so it feels natural, relaxed, and true to YOU.
Be yourselves – Laugh, twirl, kiss, talk about your favorite pizza place—I want to capture the real stuff.
Don’t overthink it – The best moments are the in-between ones, not the perfectly posed ones.
Let it be FUN – This is the beginning of your wedding story. Let’s make it beautiful, meaningful, and full of love.
Ready to Plan Your Own Luxury Engagement Photos?
I’m all about helping couples turn their engagement photos into something elevated and unforgettable. If you’re dreaming of soft golden light, iconic architecture, or something that feels uniquely you—I’d love to make it happen. Let’s shoot somewhere that tells your story! Ready to create something stunning together? See more of my work on Pinterest! Contact me here and let’s start planning!
See more on the blog!
Best Locations for Big Sur Engagement Photos
How to Plan the Dreamiest Destination London Engagement Photos