Seattle Engagement Session Photographer & Locations

Seattle engagement session photographer Luma Weddings

Over the last 10 years of my career as a Seattle wedding photographer, it’s been so much fun to see all the love stories. And one of those special moments through the experience of getting married is to have your engagement session. And if you’re on the fence about doing an engagement session or not, know that there are many benefits to hiring a Seattle engagement session photographer.

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And there are MANY engagement locations to choose from, so how on earth do you even pick? Trust in your Seattle engagement session photographer.

First, let’s start with the basics (from my professional and personal opinion):

Choose a location that has a decent amount of privacy. You don’t want to be stared at by dozens of locals or tourists, and you certainly don’t want to be hassled by any homeless people. So, personally speaking – I would avoid downtown Seattle and Pioneer Square.
Go away from the ‘typical’ spots that you see everywhere. Discovery Park & Volunteer Park, I’m looking at you.
Choose a location that goes well with your personality. Think of the things you like to do in your free time, and think of the things that you find peaceful and romantic. Steer towards those locations. Find crashing waves soothing? Then find a beach.
Go the extra mile. Literally. Don’t just pick a location because it’s close to where you live. Be willing to drive a little bit further. You will only ever have one engagement session in your entire life. So, spend the time and energy in going to that gorgeous spot you’ve always wanted.
Now let’s talk about all you adventurous couples. I love you, so bear with me here. If you are wanting to go hiking for 6 miles to get to a specific location, that’s awesome, but for your photography, there are many locations that can capture the similar sort of vibe that you’re wanting to achieve — but without the super long, sweaty, exhausting hike. And for your photographs, you are going to want to make sure your makeup isn’t running, your face isn’t red, your skin doesn’t show all those marks where you had your backpack straps, you won’t want to change into a dress in the woods, and you don’t really want to carry all that gear you’ll need for the session. I’ve done it, and personally speaking, it’s just not worth the time and effort it takes. That said, if a particular location that requires a hike has some super sentimental meaning to it, I’m all for it — but keep in mind that many professional photographers have an additional rate for hiking time. So, if you are also on a budget, there’s yet another reason to stay away from sessions that require long hikes.
Your location should be a short walk away from a parking lot, yet feel miles away when looking at the photographs. Your professional wedding photographer should know of some spots that meet all these criteria.
Trust your photographer. Hire someone with experience. Your photographer (if chosen wisely) will know the best locations for your engagement session. Take their advice.
When you’ve chosen your location, now it’s time to schedule a date and time. Personally, at the time of me writing this blog post, my engagement sessions are booked Monday-Thursday. Weekends are reserved for weddings and family time. And as for the time of day, mornings can be equally as gorgeous as evenings. So, don’t shy away from a session that is at 10am (or earlier) versus those evening photos. Personally, I’ve hired photographers to work with my wife and I and we have even done sunrise sessions. (I don’t recommend those, but that’s another story).
For your engagement outfit ideas, always dress to impress. You can never overdress. But you can certainly underdress, and you don’t want that. I want you looking your best! 🙂 And flowy dresses are always a good idea.

Don’t take my word for it, though. Have a look through the below engagement session that I photographed between Haley & Arthur. And when you’re ready to schedule your Seattle engagement session photographer (or wherever else you want to book me), just hop on over and use my contact form. I absolutely love being a Seattle wedding photographer, and I am looking forward to hearing from you!