Engagement Session Tips for Northeast Ohio Couples
Everything you need to know to make your session relaxed, beautiful, and true to you
You're engaged—congrats! 💍 Whether you're deep in wedding planning or still soaking it all in, an engagement session is the perfect way to document this sweet season of life. It’s also a great chance to connect with your photographer, get comfortable in front of the camera, and create images that feel like you.
As a lifestyle photographer based in Northeast Ohio, I’ve photographed couples in wildflower fields, tucked-away creeks, windswept beaches, and even snowy forests. No matter the season or location, these tips will help you get the most out of your engagement session—so the images reflect your real connection.
📍 1. Choose a Location That Fits Your Story
Ohio is full of beautiful places that offer more than just a pretty backdrop—they help tell your story.
Some favorite engagement photo locations in Northeast Ohio:
🌾 Lakefront Beaches – golden hour + Lake Erie magic
🌿 Local parks like Rocky River Reservation or Cuyahoga Valley National Park – full of trails, fields, and seasonal color
🌸 Lavender or flower fields – dreamy, soft, and romantic
🪵 Creeks and woodlands – perfect for barefoot adventurers and nature lovers
Not sure where to go? I’ll guide you based on your vibe, season, and lighting goals.
👕 2. Wear Something That Feels Like You (but Elevated)
Your engagement session isn’t about stiff posing or fancy outfits—it’s about being yourselves. That said, a little thought into your wardrobe goes a long way.
Here are a few outfit tips:
Stick to neutral or earthy tones that complement the natural setting (think sage, rust, cream, dusty blue).
Avoid busy patterns or logos.
Choose textures like linen, cotton, or denim that photograph beautifully.
Consider two outfits: one casual, one a bit more dressed-up.
Don’t forget shoes you can walk in if we're going off the path!
💡 Bonus Tip: Flowy dresses, layers, and movement always add something magical to the frame.
🌅 3. Time It Right (Golden Hour = Gorgeous)
Lighting is everything. For that dreamy, warm glow you see in my photos, I always recommend scheduling your session about an hour before sunset. That time of day—called golden hour—makes skin tones look incredible and adds soft, cinematic warmth to every frame.
If you're doing a winter session, we may need to meet earlier since the sun sets much sooner in Ohio!
🤍 4. Don’t Stress About Posing—That’s My Job
You don’t need to be “good at photos” to look amazing in your session. I’ll guide you with prompts and gentle direction to help you feel relaxed, connected, and fully yourselves. Expect a mix of walking, laughing, maybe dancing, and plenty of in-between moments.
The goal? Candid emotion + natural connection that doesn’t feel forced or over-styled.
💍 5. Use It as a Wedding Warm-Up
Your engagement session is a great way to get to know how I work behind the camera before the big day. It builds trust and makes your wedding photos feel even more seamless.
Many couples even use engagement photos for:
Save-the-dates
Guest book albums
Wedding website imagery
Framed decor for the reception
✨ Ready to Book Your Session?
Whether you're newly engaged or just looking to mark this moment in time, your engagement session should feel like a celebration—not a photo shoot. I’ll help you plan every detail so it feels intentional, effortless, and full of heart.
📍 Based in Cleveland and serving all of Northeast Ohio (and beyond!)
📅 Now booking 2025–2026 engagement and wedding photography