If you’ve ever flipped through traditional engagement photos and thought, This is pretty, but it’s just not us… you’re not alone. More and more couples want their engagement photos to feel less like posed perfection and more like capturing who they are as a couple in real life. That’s where interactive, experience-centered engagement shoots come in—and trust me, they’re a game-changer. Need ideas? Take a peek inside this swanky, retro bar photoshoot.
Alaika and Evan engagement photoshoot wasn’t about stiff smiles or gazing into the distance while holding hands in a field. Instead, it was a day filled with movement, laughter, and, yes, a little bit of grit (in the best way possible).
Their session started in a storybook setting: at Ferndell Trail in Griffith Park. It is a beautiful local park in Los Angeles with tree-lined walkways and benches tucked under sprawling limbs. Alaika floated through the space in her stunning white satin gown, while Evan brought a cool edge with his leather jacket. The contrast between her elegance and his effortlessly cool vibe made every shot feel dynamic and alive. Meanwhile, the park gave us gorgeous, sun-dappled frames, peaceful moments, and those timeless, romantic shots you’ll always love.
Engagement Photos with a Twist
But then—the twist. We headed to Crawford’s, a beloved dive bar in LA’s historic Filipinotown. Picture this: the neon lights glowing against the dark wood interior, a round of beer in hand, and flashes of laughter echoing in the air. Alaika and Evan leaned into the vibe, snuggling up in a booth, showing off their pool-playing skills (or lack thereof), and just being themselves. The flash photography added a fun, retro edge to it all, making it feel like a scene from an indie film.
The result? An eclectic mix of photos that feel like a journey through their day—romantic, playful, and unapologetically authentic. These weren’t just photos; they were snapshots of their story, full of texture and personality.
16 Interactive, Experience-Oriented Engagement Photo Ideas
If you’re craving an interactive engagement session like Alaika and Evan’s, here are a few more fresh, fun ideas to inspire you:
1. Arcade Adventures
Head to your favorite arcade or vintage gaming spot and unleash your inner kids. Think air hockey battles, skeeball competitions, and cozying up in a two-person racing game. Pro tip: Flash photography works wonders here to capture the neon lights and colorful chaos. Find a Los Angeles arcade.
2. Coffee & Pastry Crawl
Start at a charming coffee shop, sip your favorite lattes, and share a pastry. Bonus points if you venture to multiple spots and stroll through a quaint neighborhood, snapping photos along the way. Candid coffee date vibes are always a win.
3. Rooftop Romance
Find a rooftop with a killer view (or just one that feels right for you), and let the city skyline be your backdrop. Add champagne, blankets, and some golden-hour lighting for serious magic.
4. Engagement Photos at the Beach
Head to the beach for a picnic, complete with a charcuterie board, s’mores, cozy blankets, and waves crashing in the background. This idea is perfect for couples who love the outdoors but want something more laid-back and intimate. Want to do you engagement photos at the beach? Here’s some inspo for you: 5 Scenic Southern California Beach.
5. Record Store Rendezvous
For music lovers, a record store shoot is an absolute dream. Flip through vinyls, dance in the aisles, and maybe even have a mini listening session. It’s quirky, cool, and so much fun to capture. Find a record store.
6. Carnival Fun
Ferris wheels, cotton candy, and carnival games? Yes, please! There’s something so nostalgic and carefree about a carnival setting for colorful and animated engagement photos. Check out this Santa Monica Pier session.
7. Dive Bar Photoshoot
Alaika and Evan proved how perfect a dive bar can be for engagement photos. Whether it’s a casual round of pool, sharing drinks at the bar, or just snuggling up in a corner booth, it’s a setting that’s cozy, relaxed, and 100% real.
8. Cooking Together
For the foodies, a cozy in-home cooking session can make for adorable photos. Think flour fights, stolen kisses over the stovetop, and candid laughs. Find your inspiration in a recent at-home lifestyle session.
9. Sporty Shenanigans
Love shooting hoops together? Bond over tennis or pickleball? Take your love to the field, court, or rink, and let your competitive sides shine. Action shots and post-game cuddles make for a great mix of fun and romance.
10. Bookstore Bliss
For the bookworms, a quiet bookstore or library is a dreamy setting. Flip through your favorite reads, share recommendations, and maybe even reenact that classic “sharing headphones while reading” moment. If you’re having trouble visualizing it, check out this adorable engagement shoot I recently did at the Los Angeles Central Library. I’m still head over heels in love with it!
11. Take a Stroll Through a Farmer’s Market
Farmer’s markets showcase fresh, vibrant produce and unique finds by local makers. Browse the stands, pick out fresh flowers, or share a pastry while your photographer captures the bustling energy around you.
12. Relive Your First Date
Whether it’s the diner where you split a milkshake or the park where you had an epic picnic, revisiting your first date location is such a meaningful way to personalize your engagement photos. (Maybe this bar photoshoot takes you back to the early days.) The nostalgia will bring out all the warm, fuzzy feels!
13. Adventure in the Great Outdoors
If you both love hiking or camping, why not tie in your favorite activity? Head to a scenic trail, a rocky coastline, or even a cozy remote Airbnb (or a tent if you enjoy camping). Bring props like blankets, lanterns, or hiking gear to make it feel like an authentic adventure.
14. Go Full-On Retro
Is there a vintage movie theater or an old-school roller rink in your city? These spots offer such a cool, nostalgic vibe for your photos. Picture twinkling marquee signs, popcorn in hand, or playful moments on skates. This retro bar photoshoot also gives fantastic throwback vibes.
15. Play Tourists for the Day
Explore your city like it’s the first time you’ve ever been there. Hop on a trolley, take photos at iconic landmarks, or grab street food from a vendor. This idea works especially well if you’re in a city with lots of character (looking at you, Los Angeles!).
16. Bring Your Hobbies Into the Mix
Are you both huge board game geeks? Obsessed with karaoke? Maybe you’re avid surfers or culinary enthusiasts who can’t resist a good taco truck. Whatever you love doing together, make it the star of your shoot. The more personal, the better!
Need More Engagement Photo Ideas?
Let me know! I love planning with couples, and I’ve captured tons of unique experieneces like this cute bar photoshoot over the years.
