Engagement Photography Tips to Stay Relaxed in Front of the Camera

Alright, let’s be real for a second—engagement photo sessions can feel a little intimidating at first, right? I mean, you’re about to have someone follow you around with a camera while you try to look cute and relaxed all while your brain is screaming “I’m not ready for this!” But here’s the thing: it doesn’t have to be that way! Trust me, I'm all about making things feel fun and natural—no awkward poses or “say cheese” moments here. So let’s dive into some engagement photography tips that’ll help you stay relaxed, look amazing, and get photos that feel so you.

I was recently hanging out with the coolest couple, Lindsey and Tim, for their engagement session at Shaw’s Cove and Top of the World Park in Laguna Beach, and let me tell you, it was the perfect example of how laidback vibes can make for amazing photos. We did a fun mix of film and digital photography, which really captured the vibe of the day. The film added such a nostalgic, dreamy feel to their session, and the digital shots complemented it perfectly with crisp, vibrant moments. If you’re a couple looking to keep your beach engagement session as stress-free and authentic as possible, these tips are for you! Trust me—you’ll have a blast, and I’ll be there to capture all those sweet, spontaneous moments that tell your unique love story.

1. Ditch the Poses—Just Be You!

I think this is the most important tip I can give. So many couples come into their engagement sessions thinking they need to act like they just walked out of a magazine spread. I’m here to tell you that’s not the vibe we’re going for! The real magic happens when you two are just being yourselves. You don’t need to pose or do anything out of the ordinary—just enjoy your time together, and I’ll work my documentary magic to capture it all. No awkward stiff smiles or forced eye contact. Just you, living in the moment, doing what feels natural.

Take Lindsey and Tim, for example—these two met on Halloween in Newport (yep, you read that right—Halloween!), and let me tell you, their story is straight out of a rom-com. Tim saw Lindsey from across the room, both of them dressed up in their Halloween costumes, and he knew he had to go talk to her. And that’s how their little origin story began—talk about movie material, right? They didn’t force anything. They just went with it, and that’s how you should feel during your engagement photos. Go with the flow. We’ll capture those little moments of connection and joy as you just are.

2. Location Matters—Pick the Right Place to Be Yourselves

Let’s talk about Shaw’s Cove and Top of the World for a sec. These two spots are some of my absolute faves in Laguna Beach, and they couldn’t have been a better fit for Lindsey and Tim. Shaw’s Cove? Perfection. The water was warm, the sun was out, and it was all glistening and beautiful (film photography for the win, by the way!). Lindsey and Tim just fit into the scenery effortlessly. They were so carefree in front of the camera, and it was like I was just a fly on the wall documenting their joy, not forcing anything. And, of course, I got some epic sunset shots at Top of the World, which is known for that killer view over Laguna Beach. If you’re feeling the laid-back beach vibes, I highly recommend looking into spots like these where you can really let loose and be yourselves.

Choosing the right location for your engagement photos is one of my most important engagement photography tips. Picking somewhere that resonates with your personality will make the session feel more natural and less forced. It’s your love story—why not tell it in a place that means something to you?

3. Don’t Overthink Your Outfits—Just Be Comfortable

I know it’s tempting to go all out and wear something super formal or totally different from your usual style, but I say keep it simple! The best photos come when you’re comfortable, so choose outfits that make you feel like the best version of you. For Lindsey and Tim, they rocked casual and relaxed styles that perfectly matched the vibe of their engagement session. Think cozy sweaters, breezy dresses, and simple but chic shoes that can handle the beach sand without totally cramping your style.

This is one of my engagement photo tips for couples: When you feel comfortable in what you're wearing, it shows in your photos. No one wants to be tugging at a dress or wishing they had chosen a more relaxed look mid-session. Keep it true to your style—whether that’s boho, beachy, or laid-back chic—and you’ll feel so much more at ease.

4. Let the Moments Happen Naturally

I know it sounds cliché, but it’s so true—let the moments happen! When you’re in a relaxed environment, like the beach, you’ll naturally feel more at ease and those candid moments will just unfold. For Lindsey and Tim, those small moments—the little laugh, the playful nudge, the gaze into each other’s eyes—were what made their session feel truly special. When you’re in a space that feels good to you and with someone you love, those natural, unposed moments are where the magic happens.

If you’re feeling nervous or anxious about being in front of the camera, try a fun activity to break the ice. For example, bring along a picnic, play a game, or even take a stroll along the beach while I snap some relaxed shots. The less you focus on posing, the more those organic moments will shine through! This is another one of my go-to engagement photography tips for couples: create fun moments together, and watch as the magic unfolds!

5. Timing is Everything—Golden Hour, Baby!

I can't stress this enough—timing can make or break your photos. During Lindsey and Tim’s session, we took advantage of that golden hour light at Top of the World. It’s the hour before sunset when the light is soft, dreamy, and completely magical. That time is everything in creating that warm, glowing feeling in your photos. And when you’re on the beach, with the sun setting and that glowy light hitting just right, it’s nothing short of perfection.

So plan your engagement session around that golden hour if you can! It’ll make your photos feel like an absolute dream, and you’ll get that warm, sun-kissed look that everyone loves. Engagement photo tip for couples: Don’t let golden hour pass you by—it’s a game-changer for your photos!

6. I’m Just the Third Wheel!

One of the best parts about being your photographer is that I’m just here to capture your love story as it naturally unfolds. I’m the third wheel in the best way possible—I’m not here to pose you or make you feel uncomfortable. I’m here to make sure you two have the best time, so just enjoy each other’s company and let me do my thing. I want to show off your true personalities, your connection, and your love for each other. So, when in doubt, just have fun—after all, we’re creating memories that will last a lifetime!

Book Your Southern California Engagement Photographer!

If you're ready to capture the candid, carefree moments of your love story, let’s make it happen! Book me, and let’s plan the perfect engagement photoshoot for your dream session. I can’t wait to be part of your day!

See more of my work on Pinterest and more engagement blogs below!

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