When it comes to engagement photos, most couples think of the typical 30-minute or hour-long session—get in, get the shots, and call it a day. But if you ask me, there’s something so much more special about a longer engagement session. Imagine having a few hours to relax, explore, and truly enjoy the moment. That’s exactly what I got to do with Austin & Hillary, and let me tell you, the result were everything! We spent almost 3 hours together, and by the time we wrapped up, it honestly felt more like we’d just spent a fun evening out together rather than a photoshoot. If you’re considering a longer engagement session for yourself, I’m here to share why it’s totally worth it, and offer a few tips for planning your own LA engagement photos!

More Time Means More Comfort and Natural Photos

Let’s face it, when you only have 30 minutes, it can feel rushed. You don’t always get the chance to fully relax and let your personality shine. That’s why having a longer session works wonders! You’re not stressed about getting the perfect shot in such a short time. Instead, you have the opportunity to settle into the shoot, enjoy each other’s company, and just be yourselves.

With Austin & Hillary, by the time we got to the second location, they were already so comfortable, and their connection came through in every photo. It’s all about capturing those real moments, and a longer session lets you do just that.

Multiple Locations + Outfit Changes = More Fun and Variety

One of the best things about a longer engagement session is that it gives you the flexibility to switch things up—whether that’s exploring different locations or trying out a couple of outfit changes. If you want more than just one location with a handful of photos, then a longer session is perfect.

For Austin & Hillary, we started in Downtown LA, soaked in the urban vibes, and then headed over to Amour Weho, a super cute French restaurant in West Hollywood. The different spots gave us such a variety of photos—one minute we were surrounded by the city, the next we were at this cozy spot with a totally different mood. More time = more options!

Turn Your LA Engagement Photos Into an Experience

Engagement photos don’t have to be stiff or stressful! Instead of thinking of it as a quick task to check off, turn it into a fun, relaxed date night experience. The extra time allows you to just enjoy each other and the process. Trust me, when you’re relaxed, your photos will reflect that.

If you and your partner are like Austin & Hillary, and you know exactly what kind of vibe you want, it’s so much easier to go with the flow and make it feel like you’re just hanging out together. By the end of the session, it wasn’t about just taking photos; it was about capturing the fun, easy-going moments that made their engagement unique.

Capture Those Candid, Real Moments

Some of the best engagement photos come from those unplanned, natural moments. And guess what? The longer you have together, the more of those moments you’ll get! When you’re not watching the clock, it’s easier to slip into a more natural rhythm with your partner and capture those in-between moments that you’ll treasure forever.

For example, Austin & Hillary’s laughter, sweet glances, and little moments of joy happened naturally throughout the session. That’s exactly what you want to walk away with—photos that feel like you.

Editorial Vibes and More Creative Shots for your LA Engagement Photos

A longer session also gives you the chance to get a little more creative with your photos. You’ve got time to experiment with different angles, lighting, and even play with some editorial-style shots that you might not be able to capture in a shorter session.

Whether it’s a cozy moment at a French restaurant or a playful shot under the LA skyline, a longer shoot gives you the freedom to experiment and get the kind of photos you’ll love for years to come.

Tips for Your Own LA Engagement Photos

Now that you’re convinced that a longer engagement session is the way to go, here are a few tips to make the most of your own LA engagement photos:

Choose locations that reflect your vibe: Whether it’s the classic urban streets of Downtown LA or a romantic spot like Amour Weho, pick places that mean something to you as a couple. This makes the session feel more personal and fun!

Plan for outfit changes: Bring a couple of different outfits to switch things up! This will give you a variety of looks and add some fun variety to your photos. Just make sure your outfits are comfortable so you can move around freely.

Relax and enjoy the moment: This is your time to celebrate your love—don’t stress about getting every shot “perfect.” The best photos come when you’re simply having fun and being yourselves.

Work with your photographer: If you’re like Austin & Hillary, and you know the vibe you want for your photos, communicate that with your photographer! It helps make the session flow more smoothly and ensures your photos match your vision.

Consider timing: If you’re shooting during golden hour (highly recommend it!), plan accordingly. That soft, warm light makes all the difference!

Make Memories, Not Just Photos

At the end of the day, your LA engagement photos should be more than just getting pretty pictures—it’s about creating lasting memories. A longer session lets you do just that. So, if you’re ready to book your engagement session, think beyond the usual time frame and make it an experience you’ll both remember.

Want to book your own LA engagement session? Let’s create some unforgettable moments together! Contact me here! 

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