Pictures of You: Fresh Ideas for a Chic Engagement Shoot

Trends

Two couples bring a sense of adventure to their engagement shoots

Written by

Lara Burnap

Published:

Minnesota Bride Spring Summer 2025

FAVORITE HAUNTS: Dining Out

Lauren Baker of Lauren Baker Photography (@laurenbakerphoto) captures her clients at their most natural by making a session feel like a date rather than a photo shoot. “I like to approach engagement sessions like a creative director or choreographer would approach a movie scene,” Baker explains. “To prepare my clients, I create a personalized vision board for their session, complete with the mood we’re going for, location suggestions, color palette and outfit inspiration. By the time we get to their session, my clients are so excited that they seem to forget all about their nerves and are focused on just having fun.” For Lindsay and Connor’s engagement photos, the couple’s perfect night was a cool bar with ambiance. In addition, the couple envisioned images that embodied a small-town main street vibe. Baker recommended the bar at Cafe Lurcat as the ideal spot for checking all of the boxes.

If clients are having a good time, they’re not too in their heads, so their bodies will automatically move more naturally, which will result in photos that look and feel authentic.

—Lauren Baker, Lauren Baker Photography

SCENE SETTERS: Getaway Car

Josie Maki of Josie Grace Photography (@josiegracephoto) set the scene for a splashy engagement shoot with this “open road” concept that blended timeless elegance with a carefree getaway car theme. High school sweethearts Jamie and Peter’s chemistry and chic style were a perfect fit for the vision shot in a local park in Lakeville. “Incorporating a vintage vehicle rental, like this 1985 gold Mercedes, not only adds to the nostalgia but also elevates the shoot with a sense of adventure and timelessness,” Maki notes. The meadow-inspired floral arrangements add to the beauty of the landscape and add a luxurious note to the shoot. Maki recommends picking a location that holds personal significance, such as a favorite spot in your hometown.

Aim for outfits that balance elegance and comfort. Relaxed yet polished attire like Peter’s rolled up sleeves and Jamie’s sleek dress bring a sense of effortless style to the photos.

—Josie Maki, Josie Grace Photography