Congratulations on your engagement! This is such an exciting time, and an engagement session is a wonderful way to celebrate it while capturing photos that reflect your unique connection. As a Columbus wedding photographer, I’ve had the pleasure of photographing couples all around this beautiful city, and I’m here to help you plan the perfect engagement session. From selecting locations to choosing outfits and timing, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to create stunning engagement photos in Columbus.

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Step 1: Choosing the Perfect Location

Columbus has a range of scenic spots that fit any couple’s style, whether you’re into urban backdrops, historic settings, or nature-inspired scenes. Here are some popular and picturesque options:

1. German Village
   With its cobblestone streets, historic homes, and charming storefronts, German Village exudes old-world charm. It’s a perfect spot for classic, romantic shots. Be sure to check out Schiller Park for greenery and unique architectural elements.
2. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
   A year-round gem, the Conservatory offers lush greenery, beautiful blooms, and a variety of backdrops, including tropical plants, desert cacti, and outdoor gardens. It’s ideal if you’re seeking vibrant, nature-inspired photos.
3. The Scioto Mile
   For a mix of urban and natural beauty, the Scioto Mile is a fantastic choice. This park along the Scioto River offers city skyline views, river reflections, and plenty of green spaces, perfect for capturing that “city meets nature” vibe.
4. The Ohio State University Campus
   Whether you’re alumni or just love the campus’s scenic spots, OSU has a variety of gorgeous settings, from the Oval and Mirror Lake to the historic buildings. It’s perfect for couples looking for an iconic Columbus location.
5. Scioto Audubon Metro Park
   This metro park offers a unique mix of nature, trails, and city skyline views. With its open fields, rock climbing walls, and river views, Scioto Audubon is great for couples who love adventure and the outdoors.
6. North Market and Short North Arts District
   If you’re looking for a vibrant, artsy atmosphere, the Short North is filled with colorful murals, eclectic architecture, and trendy vibes. It’s perfect for couples wanting a fun, urban look with a bit of flair.

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Step 2: Timing Your Session

The time of day you choose will have a big impact on the look of your photos, so it’s worth considering what vibe you want:

• Golden Hour: For soft, warm lighting, plan your session around sunrise or sunset. Golden hour lighting is flattering and gives photos a romantic glow, perfect for capturing those dreamy moments.
• Daytime: If you want brighter, crisper images, a late morning or early afternoon session might be best. Just be mindful of locations with shade or indoor spots to avoid harsh shadows.
• Evening/Night: For something unique, consider a twilight or evening session, especially if you’re in an area with city lights or interesting architecture. These sessions can create a moody, cinematic effect.

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Step 3: Seasonal Considerations

Columbus is beautiful year-round, but each season brings its own unique charm. Here’s what to expect with each season:

• Spring: Columbus comes alive in the spring with blooming flowers and vibrant greenery. It’s a lovely time for garden settings like Franklin Park Conservatory or the Columbus Park of Roses.
• Summer: If you’re dreaming of a bright and sunny session, summer offers lush scenery and long days. Early morning or evening sessions help beat the heat while capturing that rich, summery glow.
• Fall: Autumn in Columbus is stunning, with parks like Scioto Mile and Schiller Park boasting beautiful fall foliage. Warm tones in your outfits will complement the golden, red, and orange leaves perfectly.
• Winter: For a magical, wintry feel, consider a snowy day (if possible) or even a cozy indoor spot. German Village or the Conservatory can be great options, with their holiday lights or lush greenery.

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Step 4: Outfit Tips for Your Engagement Session

What you wear plays a big role in the overall look and feel of your photos. Here are some tips to help you look and feel your best:

1. Choose Colors Wisely
   Soft neutrals, earthy tones, and rich jewel colors (think deep greens, burgundy, mustard) work beautifully in Columbus’s scenic spots. Consider the season, and pick colors that will pop against your chosen backdrop.
2. Complement Each Other, Don’t Match
   Aim for complementary outfits rather than identical looks. Think of pairing a patterned dress with a solid color that picks up a shade in the pattern or wearing different shades of a similar color family.
3. Layers Add Interest
   Layers like jackets, scarves, or hats add texture and depth to your photos, especially in fall and winter. Plus, they make it easy to switch up your look during the session.
4. Bring an Outfit Change
   If you want both casual and formal looks, consider bringing a change of clothes. For example, you could start with a dressy outfit for photos in a grand location and switch to a relaxed look for a casual, playful setting.
5. Comfort is Key
   Choose outfits that allow you to move freely and feel at ease. Avoid anything too tight or stiff, as you’ll want to look relaxed and natural in your photos.

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Step 5: Planning for Props and Personal Touches

Consider adding props or elements that reflect your personality as a couple. Here are a few ideas:

• Pets: If your furry friend is a big part of your life, bring them along! Just make sure to have treats on hand and plan for a friend or family member to help with handling them.
• Picnic Setup: A picnic blanket, basket, and a bottle of champagne can create a cozy, romantic vibe, especially in a scenic park or garden.
• Special Items: Incorporate meaningful items like a favorite book, a guitar, or something that symbolizes a shared hobby. These can make your photos feel more personalized.

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Step 6: Working with Your Photographer

Your photographer is here to help you every step of the way! Don’t hesitate to ask for advice on locations, lighting, and other logistics. A seasoned Columbus photographer will know the best spots and can even help you schedule around events or busy times to ensure a more intimate, private session.

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Final Thoughts

An engagement session is a beautiful way to capture this special chapter in your lives and can even be a fun “trial run” with your wedding photographer. With so many scenic spots around Columbus, you’re sure to find the perfect backdrop that reflects your love story.

If you’re ready to start planning your engagement session or have questions about timing, locations, or outfits, I’d love to help! This session is all about celebrating your unique journey together, and I can’t wait to capture the magic of it right here in Columbus.

Caroline Stiers is a Columbus, Ohio and NYC-based destination wedding photographer, dedicated to creating a joyful, unforgettable experience for her couples. She specializes in capturing candid, romantic, and emotional moments with an editorial flair, resulting in timeless, authentic imagery.