As a photographer, there’s something magical about engagement sessions—the perfect blend of excitement, romance, and anticipation as couples prepare for their big day. Engagement photos offer a chance for couples to express their personalities, create lasting memories, and capture their love story in a more casual, intimate setting before the wedding. Here, I’m sharing some of my favorite engagement sessions that truly stand out, each with its unique location, style, and love story.

1. A Dreamy Downtown Cincinnati Engagement

One of my all-time favorite sessions took place in the heart of downtown Cincinnati. The city’s mix of modern architecture, historic charm, and vibrant street art created a perfect urban backdrop for this stylish couple. Starting at Washington Park, we captured candid moments with the couple strolling along tree-lined paths and enjoying the city’s skyline. The nearby Music Hall offered a touch of elegance, and we wrapped up with golden-hour shots on the Roebling Bridge.

Why I loved it: The urban vibe combined with the couple’s chic style made this session effortlessly cool and romantic.

2. A Sunset Engagement at Ault Park

Ault Park is one of Cincinnati’s most iconic spots for engagement photos, and for good reason. With its beautifully manicured gardens, grand pavilion, and wide-open green spaces, it’s a dream location for couples who love nature. One session, in particular, stood out, as the couple’s love for the outdoors truly shined. We explored the park’s trails, capturing playful and intimate moments, and ended with a breathtaking sunset shoot on the hilltop overlooking the city.

Why I loved it: The golden-hour lighting and lush greenery provided the perfect backdrop for this couple’s outdoor engagement session.

3. Romantic Waterfront Engagement at Smale Riverfront Park

For couples who want a mix of water views and cityscape, Smale Riverfront Park in Cincinnati is a fantastic location for an engagement session. One of our favorites involved a couple who wanted to incorporate both the river and downtown in their shoot. We started by capturing their playful moments on the swings by the river and then took advantage of the stunning views of the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge. As the sun began to set, we transitioned to some elegant shots with the city skyline in the background.

Why I loved it: The combination of water, skyline, and iconic Cincinnati landmarks made this session visually diverse and incredibly romantic.

4. Engagement at Eden Park

Winter engagement sessions can be just as stunning as those in the warmer months, and one of my all-time favorites happened on a snowy day at Eden Park. With snow-covered trees, frozen fountains, and the couple bundled up in cozy layers, it felt like a scene from a winter fairytale. Despite the cold, their joy and laughter made every moment feel warm, and the snow added a magical element to the photos.

Why I loved it: The winter wonderland setting and the couple’s cheerful spirits created a magical, cozy atmosphere perfect for an unforgettable engagement session.

Tips for Choosing Your Engagement Session Location

Whether you prefer an urban setting, nature, or something a little different, choosing the right location for your engagement session is key. Consider places that hold special meaning for you as a couple or locations that reflect your personalities. Here are a few tips to help guide your decision:

• Consider the season: Different locations shine at different times of the year. Think about whether you want lush greenery, vibrant fall colors, or a snowy winter backdrop.
• Incorporate meaningful locations: Places that are important to your relationship—like where you had your first date, got engaged, or enjoy spending time together—can add a personal touch.
• Think about your style: Do you love the outdoors, city vibes, or something more rustic? Your engagement photos should reflect who you are as a couple.

Why Engagement Sessions Are Important

Engagement sessions are more than just a pre-wedding photo opportunity—they help build a connection between you and your photographer, allowing you to feel more comfortable in front of the camera. Plus, you’ll have a collection of beautiful images that capture your love before the big day. Whether you choose a downtown cityscape, a scenic park, or a cozy indoor session, engagement photos are a timeless way to commemorate this special chapter of your lives together.