Ahhh you’re engaged!! Cue the happy tears, ring selfies and probably a very full to-do list. If one of those tasks includes planning your engagement session, you’re in the right place.

As a Pennsylvania-based wedding photographer who believes your photos should feel like a reflection of you (not a Pinterest checklist), I’m here to help you choose a season that matches your energy and helps you feel relaxed and confident in front of the camera.

Whether you’re dreaming of fall foliage, cherry blossoms, a breezy beach session or snowy mountains, this guide breaks down each season so you can figure out what’s best for your engagement session, both visually and logistically.

And if you’re already set on your season and want general session advice, I’ve got you. Here are 7 engagement photoshoot ideas to help make your session feel more personal—because your photos should feel like you, not a performance.

I help every couple plan their session in a way that feels intentional and relaxed. From personalized questionnaires to seasonal insights and location ideas, I’m here for all of it.

According to The Knot, most couples take their engagement photos 6–10 months before the big day. Perfect for save the dates, wedding websites and just soaking in this chapter before it flies by.

Spring Engagement Photos in Pennsylvania

Best months: Late March through early June
Vibe: Fresh, floral, romantic

Spring is all about new beginnings and what better time to celebrate yours? With trees in bloom, soft light and mild temperatures, spring offers dreamy conditions for a romantic, light-filled engagement session.

Popular spring photo spots include:

• Overlook Park (Lancaster)
• Historic Poole Forge (Narvon)
• Everheart Park (West Chester)

Why my couples love it: Spring feels soft, sweet and full of color. You can go classic or editorial and florals always feel timeless.

Photographer Tip: Keep an eye on bloom forecasts if you’re hoping for cherry blossoms or magnolia trees. Cherry Blossom Watch and local park websites post peak bloom updates weekly.

What to wear: Think flowy dresses, pastels, and layers in case of chillier mornings. This is your light and airy moment.

Top Cherry Blossom Photo Locations in Philadelphia

• Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center: A serene setting with traditional Japanese architecture and gardens.

• Fairmount Park Horticulture Center: Home to numerous cherry trees and scenic landscapes.

• Kelly Drive & Martin Luther King Jr. Drive: Iconic riverside trails lined with blossoming trees.

• Belmont Plateau: Offers panoramic views of the city skyline framed by cherry blossoms.

• Morris Arboretum: Features over 75 varieties of cherry trees in a beautifully curated setting. ​

Summer Engagement Photos in Pennsylvania

Best months: Mid-June through August
Vibe: Bold, glowy, carefree

Summer is golden hour heaven, especially if you’re into barefoot beach photos, strolls or sun-drenched field sessions. With longer daylight hours, there’s room for more variety, creativity and outfit changes.

Favorite spots:

• Marsh Creek (Downingtown)
• Struble Lake (Honey Brook)
• Your favorite small town (West Chester, Kennett Square, Manayunk)

Why my couples love it: Summer feels like a date night. It’s relaxed, warm and laid-back, which means you’re less focused on posing and more focused on being together.

Photographer Tip: Sunrise sessions are so underrated! Especially for beaches or popular towns. Bonus: less heat, fewer crowds and beautiful soft light.

What to wear: Light fabrics like cotton and linen. Neutral tones, soft blues, or rich tones if you’re going for more contrast.

Fall Engagement Photos in Pennsylvania

Best months: Late September through early November
Vibe: Foliage, grounded, nostalgic

If fall is your vibe, I get it, because it’s mine too! With golden trees, crisp air and that cozy feeling of change, fall engagement sessions hit a little deeper. Especially in Pennsylvania, where the foliage is next level.

Best fall photo locations:

• Springton Manor Farm (Glenmoore)
• Valley Forge (Kennett Square)
• Anywhere with trees, old barns, or open skies

Why my couples love it: It feels like home. There’s warmth, history and an intimacy that’s hard to recreate in any other season.

Photographer Tip: Peak foliage varies depending on the year and location. Check the PA Foliage Map and book your session early—we’ll plan your timing together.

Style Ideas: Earth tones, cozy layers, boots and muted florals always photograph beautifully this time of year.

Winter Engagement Photos in Pennsylvania

Best months: December through February
Vibe: Quiet, elegant, cozy

Winter sessions don’t get enough credit. They’re clean, calm and unexpectedly romantic. Whether we find snow or keep it simple at your favorite coffee shop, there’s so much opportunity to make this feel unique.

Cozy winter spots:

• Your favorite Cafe
• Tree farms
• Inside your home with coffee + blankets

Why my couples love it: It’s intimate. It feels like a little escape in the middle of wedding planning and the photos feel elevated without trying too hard.

Photographer Tip: Indoor/outdoor hybrid sessions work great in winter. Start at home, then bundle up and finish outdoors for variety!

What to wear: Wool coats, scarves, muted tones or deep colors. Layers = comfort = more natural photos. You could also dress for a holiday theme!

Why Season Actually Matters

You want your engagement photos to feel like you. That’s why I build sessions with my couples. We talk about where you spend time together, what seasons you love and how you want to remember this moment.

Season isn’t just about weather. It’s about what energy you want your photos to carry.

Want your session to feel like a slow morning in your favorite town? Maybe we shoot in late spring, grab coffee and walk the streets you love.

Looking for golden nostalgia? Fall or summer are the winner.

Need something calm and stripped back? Winter or early spring may surprise you.

 Frequently Asked Questions

When should we take engagement photos based on our wedding date?

If you’re planning to use your photos for save the dates, aim to take them at least 8-12 months before your wedding. That gives you time to design, print and mail everything without feeling rushed.

But if you’re ahead on planning and don’t need them right away, you’ve got more freedom to pick the season that feels right. Choosing a season based on how you want the session to feel, instead of just fitting it into your checklist, can make the experience so much more meaningful.

How far in advance should we book our session?
My calendar tends to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. So the sooner, the better. Once your contract and retainer are in, we’ll officially get you on the schedule and start planning a session that feels true to you.

Can we bring our dog or shoot somewhere personal to us?
Of course! These sessions are more personal when they include your real life. I’ll help you coordinate the logistics!

Do we need props?
Only if they’re special to you. I send every couple a personalized questionnaire before the session and part of that includes talking through intentional props! Things that feel like a natural part of your story. Whether it’s a bottle of champagne, a pizza from your favorite date night spot, or a bouquet from your own backyard (or wedding florist!), we keep it simple and personal.

Final Thoughts

Every season has something beautiful to offer. But when it comes down to it, what matters most is creating a session that feels relaxed, connected, and true to your relationship. That’s what I’m here to help you build.

If you’re looking for engagement photos that feel intentional (and not overly posed), reach out. Let’s start dreaming up a session that fits your season and your story.

Contact me here to start planning!

• The Knot – Engagement Photo Tips
• PA Fall Foliage Map – DCNR
• Cherry Blossom Watch
• Brides.com – Engagement Session Style Guide