Your engagement session is more than just a warm-up for your wedding day portraits. It’s a beautiful opportunity to document who you are right now, in this season of anticipation and connection. It’s where artistry meets authenticity. A chance to slow down, connect, and celebrate your story in a setting that feels uniquely you.
Whether you’re drawn to Atlanta’s urban landscape, romantic gardens, or adventurous mountain backdrops, this guide will walk you through everything you need to plan a meaningful, elevated engagement session.
When to Schedule Your Session
In Atlanta, we’re fortunate to have distinct seasons, and each offers something unique. Here’s a seasonal breakdown:
- Spring (March–May): Mild temps, cherry blossoms, azaleas, and soft light. A romantic favorite.
- Summer (June–August): Longer days and bold sunsets; just plan for early morning or golden hour to avoid the heat.
- Fall (September–November): Warm tones, crisp air, and dreamy golden foliage. Always a client favorite.
- Winter (December–February): Understated beauty, cozy attire, and fewer crowds. Perfect for elegant, editorial vibes.
Pro Tip: Book you session 6–9 months before your wedding to allow time for save-the-dates, albums, and display prints.
Choosing the Right Location
Atlanta offers an array of breathtaking backdrops that range from iconic to hidden gem. Choose a location that complements your personalities and the aesthetic of your wedding day.
Some of our favorite locations:
- Piedmont Park: Iconic skyline views and plenty of variety.
- Lullwater Preserve: Wooded trails, waterfalls, and a suspension bridge for romantic, storybook vibes.
- The Atlanta Beltline: Urban art meets modern romance, especially around Ponce City Market.
- Cator Woolford Gardens: Timeless elegance in a historic garden estate.
- Arabia Mountain or Sweetwater Creek: For adventurous souls who love natural drama.
- Your home or a meaningful place: There’s nothing more personal than a session where your story began.
Ask yourself:
Do you envision something timeless and romantic? Urban and edgy? Organic and nature-focused? Let that guide your location.
What to Wear for Your Engagement Photos
Styling is key to an elevated engagement session. We recommend two outfits: one dressy, one relaxed, but both should reflect who you are at your best.
Tips for Elevating Your Look:
- Go neutral or deep in tone: Ivory, camel, charcoal, navy, and earthy rusts photograph beautifully.
- Avoid busy patterns: Solid colors or subtle textures elevate the editorial feel.
- Coordinate, don’t match: Think complementary tones, not identical outfits.
- Dress for movement: Flowy dresses, layers, and pieces that catch the wind add visual interest.
- Add a statement piece: A wide-brimmed hat, bold earrings, or a structured blazer can elevate the look.
- Consider professional hair and makeup: Especially if you’re doing a trial for the wedding. It photographs beautifully.
Style Inspiration:
We offer a complimentary style guide for our clients to help make this easy and intentional.
How to Personalize Your Session
This is where meaning over trends comes in. A few ways to make your session feel uniquely yours:
- Include your pets
- Bring a picnic, champagne, or coffee for two
- Incorporate your hobbies (vinyl records, bikes, sketchbooks)
- Use heirlooms or sentimental items
- Return to your first date spot
The best images come from real connection. Create space for emotion, laughter, and storytelling.
Don’t Stress—Trust the Process
Even if you’ve never been professionally photographed before, the engagement session is where we’ll guide you every step of the way. Our sessions are relaxed and organic, and we’ll never leave you wondering what to do with your hands.
We’ll provide:
- Location planning assistance
- A style consultation if desired
- Posing prompts rooted in natural connection
- Artistic direction to bring out your chemistry and personality
We believe you shouldn’t just look beautiful in your images, you should feel something when you see them.
Displaying Your Engagement Photos
Your engagement images deserve more than a phone screen. These photos are the beginning of your legacy and the perfect complement to your wedding story.
Here are few popular ways to display them:
- Fine art guest books
- Framed wall art or gallery displays at home
- Save-the-dates
- Wedding day slideshow
- Custom prints for your reception welcome table
Our clients often tell us their engagement photos help anchor their wedding gallery because they show a more intimate, everyday side of the relationship that balances the formal elegance of the wedding.
Final Thoughts
Your engagement session is about connection, not perfection. It’s a space to celebrate who you are now, as you prepare for your next chapter together. With thoughtful planning, a meaningful location, and the right artistic eye, it becomes the perfect start to your wedding story.
At Viridian Images Photography, we approach every engagement session as a collaboration. With over 15 years of experience photographing couples in Atlanta and beyond, we craft artistic, emotionally resonant portraits rooted in your unique story. Whether we’re scalling mountain trails, wandering city streets, or photographing you at home, our goal is to make you feel seen, valued and inspired.
Ready to plan an unforgettable engagement session?