If you’re anything like me, when you hear about a destination engagement session, your brain might immediately go to some remote cliff where the wind is wild, your dress is tangled, and someone’s fiancé forgot the bug spray.
But what if I told you there’s a better way?
If you’re dreaming of stylish engagement photos in a place that actually feels like you—without the REI gear or two-day hike—you’re in the right place. A destination engagement session doesn’t have to mean adventure elopement energy. It can mean romantic architecture. Beautiful beaches. Coastal air. City lights in your favorite city. Art. And meaningful travel.
Below, I’ve rounded up some of the best travel destinations for engagement photoshoots that still feel like a moment—without sacrificing comfort, accessibility, or your favorite heels.
WHAT YOU’LL FIND IN THIS GUIDE
Why “Destination Engagement Session” Doesn’t Mean Backpacking in the Alps
(Spoiler: You can keep your shoes on and still get stunning photos.)
8 Destination Spots That Deserve a Place on Your Vision Board
From coastal charm to rooftop romance—these are not your average engagement locations.
NYC, Santorini, SoCal & More: What Each Location Brings to the Table
Style, vibes, light, travel ease—broken down so you can find your perfect match.
What to Wear, Pack, and Plan for Your Destination Engagement Shoot
Aka: The things you’ll wish you had if you don’t read this first.
What’s Included in My Destination Engagement Packages
No guesswork. No awkward posing. Just a plan that fits your life and your style.
Need More Inspo? Here Are Some Favorite Past Engagement Sessions
Real couples, real locations, real cute.
About Me (Hey, I’m Rachel!)
Your new favorite third wheel with a camera and a flight tracker app.
8 Destination Engagement Photoshoot Ideas That Aren’t in Atlanta (But Also Aren’t a 10-Mile Hike)
1. New York City — The Ultimate Urban Love Story
From classic Central Park strolls to a chic sunrise session on a quiet West Village block, NYC is endlessly photogenic. Want something bold? Head to the Brooklyn Bridge at golden hour. Want something quieter? The Upper West Side has that timeless, cinematic feel.
P.s. Plan for early morning sessions to avoid crowds and capture that glowy, just-you-two energy.
Engagement photo tip: Bring an outfit change—NYC backgrounds can go from vintage brownstone to a downtown rooftop in a snap — and who doesn’t love a gallery with different looks?
2. Southern California — Ocean Breeze Meets Editorial Chic
You already know how big of a Cali girl I am, so of course I had to include those stunning cliffs in Malibu, the cool minimalism of Palm Springs architecture, or a barefoot walk down the Laguna Beach coast for destination engagement photo spots! SoCal gives you the ocean and the edge. Perfect for couples who want their engagement photos to feel like a magazine spread and a weekend getaway all in one.
What to wear: Linen, neutrals, and textures photograph beautifully here.
Advice for engagement photos: Don’t overthink the props—let the landscape and your connection be the main character.
3. Montana — Open Skies Without the Crowds
Montana is for the couple who loves peace, quiet, and big views—but not the overdone “we climbed a mountain for this” look. Try places like Flathead Lake, Missoula’s wide open fields, or even downtown Bozeman for a small-town feel with lots of charm.
Engagement picture inspo: Beautiful flowing dresses, hands in pockets, golden grass, and subtle romance that feels just like a classic Nicholas Sparks film.
4. Washington D.C. or the Maine Coast — New England Charm in Two Flavors
Want iconic architecture and blooming cherry blossoms? D.C. is your spot. Prefer rocky coasts and foggy lighthouses? Head to coastal Maine (Bar Harbor, Kennebunkport, or Portland’s cobblestone streets are a sight to be seen).
Engagement photo tip: Overcast days on the coast = soft, glowy light. Ideal for showing off emotion without those harsh shadows. Also ideal for cozy sweaters, and embracing the salt air (and probably a few lobster rolls).
5. Santorini, Greece — Because White Walls + Blue Domes Never Go Out of Style
Santorini is an actual dream. The views? Unreal. The light? Soft and golden. The backdrop? Unlike anything else. Perfect for couples planning a trip anyway—or for those who want a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Advice for engagement photos: Keep your wardrobe simple—this location speaks for itself.
Plus, you’ll also get a sneak peek at how the two of you travel together before the honeymoon.
6. Washington State — Moody, Modern, and So Romantic
From Seattle rooftops to Whidbey Island beaches to the mossy forests of Olympic National Park, Washington is for lovers who love contrast. You can go urban or coastal or woodsy—without ever feeling like you’re “roughing it.”
What makes it great: Even the cloudiest days give your photos a rich, cinematic quality. Bring the raincoat, leave the expectations at home.
7. Colorado + Utah — Desert, City, or Dreamy in Between
While we’re skipping the rugged “hike to the summit” narrative, you can still enjoy Colorado and Utah without needing trekking poles. Places like the Garden of the Gods at sunset, downtown Salt Lake’s clean lines, or a cozy Airbnb in Boulder with rooftop access and views.
Engagement photo inspo: Earth tones, textures, sunglasses, and a chilled bottle of wine on the porch.
8. Northern California — Coastlines, Vineyards, and Redwood Dreams
Wine country, Big Sur cliffs, or the Marin Headlands just outside SF? Northern California has everything.
It’s like five engagement session backdrops in one!
You can have a forest moment in the redwoods and a sophisticated golden-hour session in Napa—all in the same weekend.
Engagement photo tip: Make it a weekend trip. Bring your dog. Do a mini picnic. Take it slow.
So, Should You Book a Destination Engagement Session?
If you’ve been craving something outside-the-box—but still accessible, stylish, and low-stress—yes. Your engagement session can be more than just pretty photos. It can be a memory in motion. A getaway. A preview of what life together feels like. A photoshoot at Taco Bell.
Literally whatever you want it to be.
And if you want help finding the right spot, styling your session, or figuring out the best light for your favorite place—I’ve got you. Let’s make something you’ll still love ten years from now.
My Engagement Photo Packages That Make This Ridiculously Easy
Whether you’re jetting off to Greece or strolling the streets of New York, your engagement photos should feel effortless and actually fun. I offer destination engagement photo packages that are custom-fit to you—based on where you’re headed, how long you want to shoot, and how many outfit changes you’re packing.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Flexible travel sessions (domestic or international)
- Personalized planning support—from location scouting to what-to-wear help
- An easy, un-awkward experience that feels like hanging out (but with a camera)
- Beautiful, editorial-style photos that still look and feel like you
Think of it like a date—with better lighting and no one asking you to “say cheese.”
Ready to book your destination engagement session? Let’s chat and start planning!
Oh Hey, I’m Rachel – Destination Engagement Photographer
I’m a Georgia-based wedding and engagement photographer who believes your photos should feel just like you—a little playful, a little nostalgic, and full of personality. I’ve photographed couples all over the U.S. (and beyond), helping them feel confident, comfortable, and camera-ready without the pressure. My job? To make sure you can look back on this season and say, “Yep. That was us.”
Let’s make some magic without calling it that.
Reach out here if you’re ready to start planning your destination engagement session.
