I just want to throw this out there. Into the mix of really good advice when it comes to engagement shoot locations. I’m not saying this is really good advice, but I just want to mix it in with the rest. There are a few things that really MAKE your engagement shoot, and I want to focus on LOCATION.

I see so many fields. Grassy, hilly, country fields. And I love them. For real. I grew up riding horses. Open fields are in my blood. But are YOU a couple who wants their shoot to be in a grassy field? Or were you not able to think of any other option and figured the photos would be pretty? I’m here to bring you a few off the beaten path engagement shoot location ideas to hopefully spark your creativity when choosing a location.

Things to think about when it comes to location:

1. What do we like to do together?
Cook? Go out to eat? Why not do that for your session? Or have it in a kitchen where you’re making something together. Sing? Are you musicians? Think about asking your favorite venue if they’d let you in and turn on the stage lights. Read? Snuggle up with a good book? There are plenty of cafe’s or book stores that would love to open their doors for you.

2. Check your PDA levels.
One of my main goals is to get some relaxed, romantic, real images. Are you a couple that can be romantic and “into each other” with other people around? Or do you want a nice quiet little spot? When I ask you if you can kiss each other or whisper into each his/her ear, will you be feel comfortable doing so?

3. WHY are you choosing the location?
Is it because it represents you? Does it hold a special place in your life? Did you meet there? Is it where he proposed? Try not to land on a place because you can’t think of anywhere else…

I went out a few days ago and drove around, snapping a few “engagement shots” without a couple, and with a point and shoot. I love to have suggestions to tell people when they ask, “where should we go?” As much as I want my clients to choose their own location, sometimes it helps to have ideas thrown at you! Here are a few of my own:

Ball Park //  Loves sports. Competitive couple. Met during intermurals in college. Plays softball. All American.

Nursery // Going green. Love gardening and growing. Met at the farmer’s market. Loves the spring time. Big on flowers.

Urban Landscape // City people. Met in the club. Up for the unexpected. Love an urban feel.