Chattanooga Tennessee Engagement
I’m excited to share this beautiful engagement session styled by my talented friend Alex in Chattanooga, Tennessee. It was such a joy to be a part of, and it got me thinking—today, I want to take a moment to talk about engagement photos, and offer a fresh perspective on why they’re so much more than just another box to check on your wedding to-do list.
I’ve had a lot of couples come to me feeling a bit uncertain about their engagement photos. Often, it feels like something that just needs to be done—primarily for the save the dates and because it's "what everyone does." While I completely understand the practicality behind it, I also want to offer a different way to think about engagement sessions. After all, this is a time to slow down, get creative, and really embrace who you are as a couple.
On your wedding day, there are so many moving pieces—formalities, timelines, and restrictions on where and how you can take photos, especially for couples planning a more traditional celebration. From the ceremony to the reception, the locations are typically set, and the schedule is tight. But engagement photos? They’re an entirely different story. This is your chance to get creative with no limitations. You have the freedom to choose any location that speaks to you, wear what feels true to your style, and do whatever brings you joy. It’s a chance to capture the authentic moments between you and your partner in a way that the wedding day doesn’t always allow.
Engagement sessions aren’t just about getting a few photos for your save the dates—they’re about creating memories. They’re a time to express who you are as a couple and celebrate what makes your relationship unique. And when it comes to creating beautiful photos, it’s often those fun, spontaneous moments that make the best memories—and the best pictures.
Think about it—would you rather remember standing in a random field, stiffly posing for a photo, or laughing until you cry while doing something you both love? I think we all know the answer to that. The joy, the connection, the real moments—that’s what makes engagement photos special. It’s the laughter, the tenderness, and the spontaneity that tell your story in an authentic, beautiful way.
And here’s the best part—your engagement session doesn’t have to be extravagant to be meaningful. There’s no pressure to do something over-the-top or styled just for the sake of it. What I’m encouraging you to do is embrace this opportunity to get creative. Think about what represents you as a couple—what you love to do together, what makes you laugh, or what brings you joy. This could be something as simple as incorporating your shared love for skateboarding, or as detailed as the beautiful session you see below.
In fact, it’s those small, personal touches that make the biggest impact. Whether it’s a shared hobby, a place that holds sentimental value, or just an activity that feels uniquely “you,” engagement photos are a chance to infuse your personality into the experience. It’s about telling the world who you are as a couple before you walk down the aisle. And it’s about having fun. The pressure of a wedding day with all its moving parts is gone—this is your time to enjoy each other, without the constraints of a formal schedule or expectations.
The beauty of engagement sessions is that they’re completely yours. There are no rules, no expectations—just an opportunity to make memories, to be yourselves, and to create a collection of images that feel as authentic as your love. Whether you’re wearing something casual and carefree, or going all out with a styled shoot, it’s about capturing you in the moment. It’s about the feeling behind the photos, not just how they look.
As you plan for your engagement session, I encourage you to think beyond the standard poses and locations. Dream about what feels true to you as a couple. Is there a spot that’s meaningful to your relationship? Do you share a hobby or interest that could translate into beautiful, personal photos? This session is all about showcasing your relationship in a way that feels true to you both, whether that means being playful, romantic, or something else entirely.
This particular session styled by Alex in Chattanooga was a perfect example of embracing creativity. The attention to detail, the personal touches, and the way the couple was able to express their personalities made for stunning images. It’s not just about the location or the outfit—it’s about the connection, the love, and the joy that comes from being yourself, together.
Ultimately, engagement photos are a celebration of your love story—an opportunity to capture the moments, the energy, and the memories that make your relationship unique. Don’t approach it as just another thing to check off your wedding list. Embrace the chance to create something meaningful, fun, and beautiful, and allow those photos to reflect who you are as individuals and as a couple.
So, whether you choose something simple or elaborate, the key is to make it your own. Your engagement session is the perfect time to express yourselves, to create lasting memories, and to capture photos that will not only look beautiful but will also feel like you. Take this opportunity to get creative, to dream, and most importantly, to have fun with it. Your love deserves to be celebrated in a way that’s as unique and beautiful as the two of you are.
Remember, these photos aren’t just for your save the dates—they’re a reflection of who you are as a couple, and they’ll be cherished for years to come. So take a deep breath, get inspired, and make your engagement session something special. After all, it’s your story—let’s make it one worth remembering.
