How to Look Amazing in Engagement Pictures
By a Central Ohio Wedding Photographer Who Totally Gets It
Engagement Pictures lets everyone know that from this day forward, you will never walk alone!
If you’re newly engaged—congratulations! Now comes the fun part: engagement photos. Except… maybe the idea of being in front of a camera makes your stomach do Olympic-level flips. Or it makes you want to run for the door, or maybe even schedule a dentist appointment for the same time. If that’s you, you’re definitely not alone.
As wedding photographers here in Central Ohio, Jill & I have worked with tons of wonderful couples who start their session a little nervous and end it feeling like total naturals.
Here’s the good news: you don’t have to be “photogenic” or an aspiring model to have beautiful, heartfelt engagement photos. With the right prep, mindset, and photographer, you can create images you’ll absolutely love.
Below we share our 10 expert tips to help you look and feel your best—even if you’re a little camera shy.
1. Choose a Location Where You Feel Comfortable
Central Ohio is full of amazing photo spots—German Village, Scioto Mile, Inniswood Gardens, and countless quiet parks and cozy cafés. Pick a place that feels like you. When you’re in a familiar or meaningful environment, your shoulders naturally drop and your smile becomes so much more genuine. Our outdoor studio is a gorgeous park like setting that is private, so we will always have it all to ourselves. Which means, no crowds or pesky onlookers!
2. Wear Something That Feels Like “Your Style”
Being comfortable in your outfit is key. You want to feel confident—not like you’re trying on a new personality. Choose clothing that fits well, moves easily, and makes you feel good. Soft, neutral tones photograph beautifully, but the most important thing is that you feel yourself.
3. Focus on Each Other, Not the Camera
Your engagement session isn’t about “posing perfectly”—it’s about celebrating your connection. We’ll guide you every step of the way with prompts that get you interacting naturally: walking, talking, laughing, or snuggling in close. When you focus on each other, the camera fades into the background.
4. Start With Simple, Easy Poses
We’ll ease gently into the session with relaxed poses—like sitting together, holding hands, or just walking side by side. That way, you won’t feel like you’re suddenly put on the spot. Think of it as a warm-up, not a performance.
5. Bring Something to Do With Your Hands
The #1 thing camera-shy couples worry about? “What do I do with my hands?”
Don’t worry—We’ve got you! But if it helps, bring props that give your hands something to do: A single flower, coffee cups, a cozy blanket, a bouquet, or even your dog’s leash. Interaction = natural expressions. Don’t forget about that gorgeous ring! Bling it up!
6. Plan the Session Around Great Light
Either sunrise or sunset gives you the softest, most flattering light (and the dreamiest glow). When you look good, you feel good, and feeling good helps you relax. We’ll help you choose the ideal time based on your location. The worst time of the day for pictures is middle of the day if the sun is bright. Bright sun will make beautiful colors dull. Cloudy days are actually pretty good!
7. Add Movement to Keep Things Natural
Movement is magic for breaking nervousness. We might walk, sway, twirl, bump hips, or slow-dance in the middle of a field. When you’re moving, you don’t have time to overthink—and the photos look beautifully candid. So don’t think of posing as being still. Instead embrace movement and allow the movement to reign in the nerves. Relax and enjoy the moment!
8. Bring Your Favorite Music to the Engagement Shoot
A little playlist goes a long way! Whether it’s your go-to hype songs or something slow and romantic, music has a way of dissolving awkwardness and letting your personalities shine.
9. Trust Your Photographer (We’ve Got Your Back!)
I know how to guide you into flattering poses, find the best angles, and help you relax through the whole process. Think of me as your friendly third wheel—there to make you laugh, give you direction, and capture the moments you can’t see from your side of the lens.
10. Don’t Try to “Be Photogenic”—Just Be Present
You don’t have to perform, pose like a model, or “get it perfect.” The best photos come from authentic reactions—your real smile, your quiet moments, your unique chemistry. Let your guard down. Be yourselves. That’s where the magic happens.
Final Thoughts about Engagement Portraits
Being camera-shy doesn’t mean you can’t have stunning engagement photos. With the right photographer, the right environment, and a few gentle tips, you’ll be surprised at how quickly your nerves melt away.
If you’re planning engagement photos in Central Ohio and want a photographer who will guide you, hype you up, and make the experience fun and relaxed, We’d love to help you create images you truly love.
Ready when you are!