Pennsylvania Wedding Photographer’s Guide to dressing Comfortably for your engagement session
Your Ultimate Guide to a Casually Styled Engagement Session
An engagement session is a fantastic opportunity to capture your love story in a relaxed, comfortable way that reflects your unique personality as a couple. While an elegantly styled session can bring sophistication and grace, a casual engagement shoot offers a more laid-back, authentic vibe that showcases your day-to-day connection.
If you're planning a casually styled engagement session in Pennsylvania, this guide will help you choose the right locations, outfits, and styling tips to create timeless photos while staying comfortable.
1. Choose the Right Location for a Relaxed Engagement Session
Casual engagement sessions are all about reflecting your real life as a couple. Choosing a meaningful location will add a personal touch to your photos. Consider:
A favorite park or hiking trail – Perfect for couples who love nature and the outdoors.
A cozy coffee shop or bookstore – Ideal for book lovers and couples who enjoy a relaxed, intimate vibe.
Your home – Nothing is more authentic than capturing moments in the space where you feel most comfortable.
City streets or small-town charm – A downtown stroll can make for a mix of urban and casual engagement photos.
Beaches or lakes – If you love the water, a lakeside or beach session can provide a laid-back, romantic atmosphere.
📍 Pro Tip: If you’re planning your session in Central PA, consider scenic spots like Parker Dam, Mount Assisi Gardens, Bald Eagle State Park, or Glendale Lake.
2. Select Comfortable Outfits That Reflect Your Style
Your outfit choice plays a major role in how natural and comfortable you feel during your engagement session. For a casual engagement session, opt for clothing that reflects your personality while ensuring visual harmony in your photos.
For Her:
Flowy sundresses or casual maxi dresses for a soft, romantic feel
A cozy sweater paired with jeans for a fall session
Simple, comfortable footwear (flats, sandals, or stylish sneakers)
For Him:
A button-down shirt with rolled-up sleeves and jeans for an effortless, put-together look
A classic henley or fitted t-shirt with chinos for a relaxed yet stylish feel
Casual boots or clean sneakers that match the vibe of the session
Pro Tip: Stick to neutral tones or soft pastels for a light and airy look, or go with earthy tones to complement outdoor locations. Avoid logos and overly bright patterns that can distract from the overall aesthetic.
3. Incorporate Personal Elements to Make It Unique
One of the best parts of a casual engagement session is the ability to add personal elements that tell your love story. Consider bringing:
Your pet – A great way to include your furry friend in your engagement photos.
A blanket for a cozy picnic setup – Perfect for relaxed, intimate moments.
Props that reflect your hobbies – A guitar, a vintage bicycle, or even your favorite coffee mugs can add character.
A bottle of champagne – Celebrate your engagement with a fun champagne pop photo!
Pro Tip: These details help create authentic, storytelling moments that make your engagement photos feel uniquely yours.
4. Go for Natural, Candid Poses
A casual engagement session isn’t about stiff, formal poses—it’s about capturing your connection naturally. Your photographer will guide you into flattering poses, but the key is to:
Walk hand-in-hand while chatting naturally
Share a laugh, whisper a sweet secret, or steal a soft kiss
Playfully interact—spin your partner, dance a little, or simply enjoy the moment
Pro Tip: If you're nervous in front of the camera, focus on your partner instead of the lens. This creates a genuine, effortless look.
5. Schedule Your Session for the Best Lighting
The right lighting can elevate the look and feel of your engagement photos. The best time for natural, flattering light is:
Golden Hour (One Hour Before Sunset or After Sunrise in central PA) – Produces warm, soft light for dreamy photos
Overcast Days – Provide even, natural light without harsh shadows
Early Morning Sessions – Ideal for quieter locations and soft, glowy lighting
📷 Pro Tip: If shooting indoors (like a coffee shop or your home), position yourselves near large windows for beautiful natural light.
6. Most Importantly—Have Fun!
The best engagement photos come from authentic moments. Don’t worry too much about posing perfectly—just enjoy the experience with your partner. Laugh, move, and interact naturally.
Why a Casual Engagement Session is Perfect for You:
You want authentic, relaxed engagement photos
You love natural, candid moments over posed images
You feel more comfortable in everyday outfits rather than formal wear
Your engagement session is about celebrating your love story in a way that feels true to you. Whether you're sipping coffee at your favorite café or strolling through a scenic Pennsylvania park, your casual engagement session will be filled with real, beautiful moments you'll cherish forever.
What to Bring for Your Casual Engagement Session
A second outfit for variety
Comfortable walking shoes for location changes
Water (especially for warmer days)
A light jacket for cooler weather
Props or personal items that reflect your relationship
Loved this guide? If you're looking for a Pennsylvania wedding photographer to capture your engagement in a relaxed and beautiful way, let’s chat!
Contact us today to plan your perfect engagement session!