Capturing your engagement is a pivotal moment in your love story. Opting for summer engagement photos offers vibrant settings, extended daylight, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal season for such a session. With years of experience photographing couples in summer settings, I’ve learned how to embrace the season’s beauty while overcoming its challenges.
Whether you’re dreaming of a sunlit beach shoot, a cozy park picnic, or urban charm, summer provides endless opportunities for breathtaking photos. This guide will cover everything you need to know, from wardrobe tips to location ideas, and how to handle the quirks of summer weather.
Choosing the Perfect Location
Personal Significance
Selecting a location that holds personal meaning can add depth to your photos. Consider places like the site of your first date, a favorite park, or a cherished vacation spot. These settings provide a backdrop rich with memories, making your photos uniquely yours.
Scenic Beauty
Summer’s natural beauty offers countless picturesque locations. Beaches provide serene landscapes with soft sands and calming waves. Gardens burst with colorful blooms, offering a romantic setting, while urban environments can add a modern twist with vibrant murals and architecture.
In my experience, one of the most memorable summer engagement sessions I’ve photographed took place in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. The vibrant streets and historic architecture added an entirely different feel compared to my typical New England settings, creating truly unforgettable images.
Unexpected Venues
Unconventional locations, like a cozy coffee shop or a local bookstore, can create intimate and authentic moments. Couples should feel free to think outside the box when choosing their setting. Even hidden gems, like the beaches in Westport, MA, offer secluded, peaceful atmospheres perfect for capturing candid shots.
Timing is Everything
Golden Hour Magic
Photographing during the golden hour—shortly after sunrise or before sunset—provides soft, warm lighting that flatters all skin tones. This time of day adds a romantic glow to your photos, enhancing their overall appeal.
Avoiding Harsh Sunlight
Midday sun can cast harsh shadows and cause squinting. To combat this, I always schedule sessions during the last few hours of the day when the sun is lower in the sky, and the heat is less intense. If earlier times are necessary, shaded areas or light diffusers help soften the light.
Wardrobe Selection
Comfort Meets Style
I always suggest outfits that are comfortable and breathable, especially for summer sessions. Think cotton or linen fabrics that allow airflow. While I guide couples on what photographs well, I encourage them to lean into their authentic style. The key is to avoid outfits that might cause overheating in high temperatures.
Color Palettes
Soft neutrals and pastels like blush pink, light blue, and creamy beige complement summer’s natural tones. These colors harmonize with most backdrops and keep the focus on you as a couple.
Limiting Outfit Changes
One common mistake is packing too many outfits, leading to rushed changes and wasted time. I recommend no more than two outfits—one casual and one formal—to keep the session stress-free.
Incorporating Meaningful Props
Personal Touches
Props like a picnic setup, musical instruments, or even a vintage bike can add personality to your photos. I also encourage couples to bring pets if they’re part of the family. However, I always remind them to bring someone along to watch the dog during breaks—no one wants to leave a pet alone in a car during summer heat.
Fun and Emotional Moments
Some of my favorite photos come from couples ending their sessions at the beach. Running in the shallow water and laughing together creates fun and emotional moments that often become the most cherished shots.
Posing and Interaction
Natural Movements
Engaging in activities like walking hand-in-hand, sharing a laugh, or dancing leads to candid shots that capture genuine emotions. I guide couples into poses that feel natural, helping them look their best without appearing stiff.
Breaking the Ice
I use conversation to break down walls and help couples feel comfortable in front of the camera. By getting to know them during the shoot, I create a relaxed atmosphere where they can be themselves.
Overcoming Summer Challenges
Staying Cool
Heat and humidity can be tricky during summer engagement photos, but simple solutions like staying hydrated, using portable fans, and taking short breaks in the shade make a big difference. Scheduling summer engagement photos later in the day also avoids the worst of the summer heat.
Managing Hair and Makeup
Humidity can wreak havoc on hair, so I suggest humidity-resistant products and hairstyles that hold up in warm weather, such as braids or updos.
Leveraging Seasonal Elements
Floral Backdrops
Summer’s blooming flowers provide vibrant and colorful settings that feel naturally romantic. Parks, gardens, and even wildflower fields can create stunning photos.
Water Features
Incorporating elements like lakes, fountains, or the ocean adds movement and texture to photos. These features often encourage couples to relax, resulting in more spontaneous and joyful moments.
Local Expertise
Top New England Locations for Summer Engagement Photos
- Newport, RI
- Boston, MA
- Westerly, RI
- Cape Cod
- Marshfield, MA
- Duxbury, MA
- Providence, RI
Hidden Gems
The beaches in Westport, MA are some of my favorite hidden gems. They’re peaceful, photogenic, and perfect for couples looking for a secluded vibe.
Mistakes to Avoid
Overplanning the Session
One mistake couples make is trying to do too much in too little time. I always advise narrowing down locations and limiting outfit changes to avoid feeling rushed. The goal is to keep the experience enjoyable and relaxed—not stressful.
Ignoring the Weather
Weather can be unpredictable, so I recommend having a backup plan if storms pop up. Flexibility ensures you still walk away with beautiful photos, even if adjustments are needed.
Conclusion
Summer engagement photos can highlight your love story in a way that feels effortless and timeless. Whether you envision a breezy beach session, a sunlit park, or a vibrant city backdrop, the key is planning ahead and trusting your photographer to capture those unforgettable moments.
If you’re ready to book your summer engagement session or need more tips, let’s connect and start planning a shoot that feels authentic to your story. Reach out today to schedule your consultation!
