The cold has finally settled in Washington, D.C. That means wedding season comes to a screeching hault for me, and holiday portrait season begins! And my season was off to a stellar start with this amazing fall session with the Gleason family.
I absolutely love a great fall session. Not only does it get me excited for Thanksgiving and Christmas, but I am convinced that clients pick out the BEST outfits this time of year.
The Gleason family was no exception! (Just look at those outfits!! And Everleigh’s little plaid hair bow!)
I love all of my clients so much. I’ve been really blessed with an amazing clientele base in this city. But the Gleason fam feels a little extra special. They were the very first family to take a chance on my business — my first paid clients!
Lee and Danielle watched me grow throughout the past year, from their Christmas tree farm session last December, to a fun spring group session, to their fall mini this year. And I’ve loved watching little Everleigh grow in that time, too!
Because of Danielle’s sweet recommendations, I even got to photograph her sister Lauren last spring, with her husband and beautiful little girl! It was so fun working with them, and noting similarities between the two adult sisters.
Lee, Danielle, and Everleigh’s fall session was a total dream! I brought them to Fort Ward Park in Alexandria, my new favorite spot. The colors were so vibrant, and the sun was hitting just perfectly for that golden fall glow.
And this time, Everleigh was MOBILE! That little sweetheart was running and walking all over the place, just showing off those fast legs. She kept running toward Mom and Dad when we tried to take their couple portraits. I guess she didn’t like feeling left out! (But it’s all good because it gave us that adorable portrait of her running to hug her mama.)
I’m so excited to share highlights from their gallery today. I hope you’ll be seeing more of these three in the future!!
Jealous of the Gleason family’s fall session? The leaves may be gone but I am just dying to try out a snow session!! Contact me for special details on how to book as soon as that winter wonderland arrives!
Every couple has a unique story, and the best engagement photo ideas go far beyond posed smiles. Recently, I photographed “A” & “L’s” engagement session—an ENP couple who requested that I protect their privacy and not share identifiable images online. Their request wasn’t just respected; it opened the door for a deeply intentional session filled with quiet, meaningful moments that beautifully reflected their relationship.
As a photographer specializing in storytelling and editorial imagery, I want couples to know that your engagement session can and should feel personal. You don’t need to perform for the camera—you just need a photographer who knows how to turn your real-life love into visual poetry.
Why Engagement Photo Ideas Should Be Personal
Many couples think engagement photos are just about dressing up and smiling at the camera. While I definitely capture classic portraits, that’s only a fraction of the full story. The best engagement photo ideas come from understanding who you are as a couple—your rituals, your connection, your humor, and your journey.
For “A” & “L,” that meant starting their session in a quiet park, sitting side-by-side on a bench where they’ve spent countless hours reading their Bibles and journaling together. These aren’t just habits—they’re emotional anchors in their relationship. Photographing those rituals added a depth to their gallery that no traditional pose ever could.
And then there was the ring: “A” wears a gold band on his right hand as a symbol of engagement in his culture. On their wedding day, that ring will move to his left. It’s a tradition full of meaning—and one I made sure to feature with a detailed, editorial-style shot that tells that part of their story.
Editorial Engagement Photo Ideas for Storytelling
When we think of great engagement photo ideas, editorial photography might not be the first thing that comes to mind—but it should be. Editorial doesn’t mean impersonal or overly styled. It means refined, intentional, and expressive.
I guide my couples with subtle posing, always encouraging movement, touch, and interaction. In “A” & “L’s” gallery, I included:
Classic portraits (yes, the ones grandma wants for her mantel)
Thoughtful candids full of laughter and genuine connection
Detail shots of meaningful objects like their Bibles and both “L” and “A’s” engagement rings
Wide, environmental shots that add context and a sense of place
Quiet in-between moments that feel like stills from a film
These engagement photo ideas create a well-rounded gallery that feels less like a checklist and more like a visual love letter.
Tips to Plan Meaningful Engagement Photo Ideas
Want to make sure your session is just as unique and story-driven? Here are some ways you can help me create something truly special:
1. Share Your Love Story With Me
Before the session, I’ll send you a short questionnaire. This helps me understand your personalities, how you fell in love, what you value, and how you spend time together. The more I know, the more authentic your photos will be.
2. Bring Meaningful Props
If there’s a book you both love, a blanket from your first date, or items that symbolize your relationship (like “A’s” gold band), bring them! These kinds of details give your engagement photo ideas texture and significance.
3. Pick a Location That Matters to You
Sure, sunset fields and rooftops are gorgeous—but so is the cozy corner of your favorite café or the trail where you go on weekend walks. Let’s choose a spot that feels like you.
4. Let the Moments Unfold Naturally
My sessions are never rushed or overly choreographed. I’ll offer guidance, but the best photos happen when you’re genuinely present with each other. Laugh, talk, cuddle—just be yourselves.
How Your Love Story Inspires Timeless Engagement Photo Ideas
At the end of the day, engagement photo ideas should celebrate what’s true and beautiful about your relationship—not a one-size-fits-all concept. With “A” & “L,” we created something soft, editorial, and sacred without ever showing a full face. Their images still speak volumes, because they are layered with authenticity, intention, and emotional storytelling.
If you’re looking for an engagement session that feels deeply “you”—with all the variety, intimacy, and editorial beauty you’ve been dreaming of—I would be honored to create that with you.
