Your Guide to Fun and Unique Engagement Photos: Advise from a Bradenton, Florida Photographer
“How can I make my engagement pictures unique?”
As a photographer who has been in the wedding industry for 8 years in the East Cost, I have seen all the classic engagement photos, and they have wowed me! But if you're here, you've likely seen the same images. You want an engagement shoot that's different, new, something that shows off your personality. And I get it! Your relationship is unique, and you want your photographs to emulate that fact.
But what can you do with your photographer to stand out? What else is there to do other than running on the beach hand in hand? (no shade to this style - these can be timeless). Let's get into the different ways to make your engagement shoot uniquely yours.
Treat Your Engagement Shoot Like a Magazine Editorial.
Engagement photos often look the same because photographers/couples all come from the same Pinterest-inspired perspective. Subconsciously, as humans, we are influenced by what we see online in the form of Instagram influencers and TikTok trends. There isn't anything wrong with this, but as someone who considers herself a non-traditional photographer in the Bradenton, Florida, area, I try to look at my shoots like an Editorial. I take inspiration from the same platforms, but I don't follow other photographers. I love following Interior design, editorial fashion brands, graphic designers, and more. Anything that's not wedding industry-related. Here's a look at some of my current favorite Pins:
Think outside the box and get playful!
2. Try Shooting In Unlikely Places.
STOP going to popular shoot locations; instead, find spots around town that are overlooked. Think of a vacant tennis court, a gas station, or a fast-food restaurant. Here are some examples of locations I've photographed with various backdrops:
Untraditional Engagement Ideas
You can also personalize your location to your interests. Go to your favorite restaurant, park, or store. Again, it's all about playing with concepts and breaking the rules of normality. don't even have to go far for this. I shot this couple at their apartment complex:
3. Try Shooting at Different Times of the Day or Night.
Speaking of breaking the rules, why does every engagement session have to be during golden hour? There's sunrise, Mid-afternoon, blue hour, and even at night! If your photographer is experienced, they'll be able to shoot any time of day or night.
For example - the night is a great time to shoot downtown in cities where there is a better concentration of lighting/neon signage. I have Anna Maria Island, Sarasota's Rosemary District, and St Petersburg close by. This lighting can look edgy or romantic, depending on the shooter's style.
4. Do Your Engagement Shoot With Film or Polaroids.
Film is popular as we become nostalgic for the late 90s/early 2000s. As a photographer with a background in film photography, the hype lives up to its street cred. However, it can be expensive! This is why I'm now offering Polaroid-only shoots. This is a perfect option for anyone wanting an intimate, non-intimidating experience. Not to mention, polaroids are a rush! Think about it. You get to see your images develop right before your eyes. Take a look here:
5. Pick a Capable Photographer.
There are SO many photographers online offering their photography services. However, it can be challenging to gauge a photographer's experience level based on their Instagram feed. Make sure to vet your photographer by asking to see a gallery or two they've done for past clients. Really look at their images. Do they align with your style/standard of photography?
My business word for the year 2025 is PlAyFuL, so if you're looking for an engagement shoot that's unique, fun, and speaks to you and your partner, I'm ready to help! But what if you're still not sure what type of Engagement shoot you want? I'll help by asking questions and offering various concepts. Planning your photo shoot will be a tailored, enjoyable experience with the right photographer. Just remember to:
