How To Take Casual Engagement Photos

Real talk: engagement photos are important. They're the photos you'll likely use for your Save the Dates, your website, and more.

However, engagement photos have turned into a major event. Pinterest and Instagram have hyped up the engagement photo experience to be this elaborate process. You have to find the perfect photographer, pick out the perfect outfit, and plan an elaborate shoot in a location that you're allowed to shoot in.

But what if you just don't want to do the entire engagement photo song and dance?  What if you just want some casual engagement photos that capture your relationship in a more natural way?

Don't worry, you're not alone.

Let's talk about how to take casual engagement photos so that you can get photography you love without the major production that can often come with an engagement photoshoot.

Step 1:  Find casual engagement photo locations

There are so many easygoing locations for your engagement shoot. Take for example:

• Where you got engaged
• Natural scenes that are permit-free (beach, forest, main street in town)
• The porch or backyard of your house (or a family member's)

The location options can really be endless.  You just need to be a little creative and find the space that suits your vibe and also doesn't cost an arm and a leg to book.

Step 2: Book a lesser-known photographer (or take your own photos)

You don't need to hire an expensive photographer to take casual engagement photos.

To find a photographer that suits your needs, check out local college photography programs or conduct a quick local Instagram search for photographers who are willing to shoot for a small fee in exchange for portfolio experience.

Oftentimes, photographers become more niche to focus on engagement or wedding photos specifically. The ones with years of experience are able to book out opportunities at higher fees.

This is why finding a photographer who has less experience but is still skilled in photography overall might be the perfect fit for a casual engagement photoshoot.

You can always hire a more novice photographer for your engagement photos and then save your budget for a wedding photographer so you get the best of both worlds.

Not interested in paying for a photographer? Try buying a phone stand for your mobile phone and setting a timer with your phone's built-in camera settings. While the photos might not be as high-res as a DSLR camera a photographer would use, it's a great unfussy option for a DIY shoot.

Step 3: Determine your outfits before the shoot

A casual engagement photoshoot doesn't require professional clothing.

You can definitely dress casually and still look pulled together for your photoshoot. For women, think casual daytime white maxi dresses or jeans and a t-shirt. Men can also get away with a pair of jeans and a button-down or t-shirt with a cool blazer on top.

The most important part of the photoshoot is making sure you feel comfortable! So find outfits that make you feel naturally confident.

Let's face it...

In this day and age, anything goes. You don't need to have the *perfect* engagement photoshoot to have amazing photos you'll cherish for years to come.