When Victoria and I started planning their engagement session, the first thing that I always ask is what “look” do you want for your session. This is what makes it easier to narrow down the locations to choose from (because there are a million!). She could have chosen a natural look or an urban or historical, a park or a beach. Victoria said that she didn’t want it at the beach, that she wanted engagement photos by the lake!

I knew right where to suggest for their session. They loved it! And their session was amazing!!!

ENGAGEMENT PICTURES WITH YOUR PUPPY

We kicked off Victoria and Casey’s engagement session at a beautiful waterway, and they brought along their sweet dog to join in the fun! I love when couples include their pup in their engagement photos—it’s such a special way to celebrate the little family you’re building together. Their dog was full of energy and added so much personality to the session.

If you’re thinking about bringing your dog along for engagement photos, here are a few quick tips:

• Bring a helper. Having a friend or family member come along makes it so much easier. They can take your dog for a walk or back home once we’ve finished their portion of the session.
• Bring treats and toys. A favorite squeaky toy or some tasty treats can help grab their attention for photos.
• Keep it simple. Your pup doesn’t need to be in every picture—just a few sweet shots are perfect before we focus on you two as a couple.

Victoria and Casey’s pup did such a great job, and I love how their session started with laughter, cuddles, and a few playful moments before we headed to the lake for the dreamy sunset light.

FINDING THE PERFECT SPOT FOR YOUR ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS BY THE LAKE

One of the things I love most about being a photographer is finding those special little locations that bring a couple’s vision to life. Finding a beautiful quiet lake is one of my favorite places. Between the sparkling water, tree-lined paths, and elegant homes in this neighbor, it gives a mix of natural beauty and upscale charm. A hidden gem!

Victoria wanted a romantic backdrop with water, and this lake community checked every box. I love being able to bring my couple’s vision to life!

CELEBRATING A COUNTDOWN TO I DO WITH YOUR ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS BY THE LAKE

Another fun detail about this session—it was exactly one year until Victoria and Casey’s wedding day! They’ll be saying their vows at Dry Creek Gatherings, and I cannot wait to celebrate with them again. The weather on their engagement day was absolutely perfect—sunny, glowy, and not too hot. If we get that same weather for their wedding day, it will be a dream come true.

WHY I HELP YOU CHOOSE YOUR ENGAGEMENT SESSION LOCATIONS

One of the best things you can do when planning your engagement session is to trust your photographer when it comes to location.

I love it when you have a specific location in mind, but if you don’t! Bringing your vision to life is so much fun!

I spend a lot of time scouting and photographing different spots throughout the year, so I know which places photograph beautifully in each season—even when the trees aren’t as green or flowers aren’t blooming. Sometimes the locations that don’t look like much to the eye in January actually glow in photos because of the way the light hits or the textures in the background. Trusting your photographer to guide you means you’ll end up with images that are flattering, romantic, and full of warmth no matter the season.

ALWAYS SO GRATEFUL FOR MY COUPLES

Photographing couples like Victoria and Casey reminds me why I love what I do. Their joy, laughter, and excitement for their future together made this session so special.

I’ll forever be grateful for clients who trust me to capture these once-in-a-lifetime milestones. Victoria and Casey’s engagement session at Lake Woodlands was one for the books!

YOUR JACKSONVILLE OR ST. AUGUSTINE ENGAGEMENT SESSION

Are you getting married in the Jacksonville or St. Augustine area or ANYWHERE in North Florida? I would love to talk to you about your wedding and plan your engagement session.

An engagement session is included with ALL of my wedding day collections and it comes with the ULTIMATE Mollie Jane Engagement Guide. My clients love it!

Click the link below to go to my website and send me a message! I can’t wait to work with you!

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