Classic, Cozy, Cafe Engagement Photos Session in Boston’s North End

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. I LOVE Boston. And what I love more than the city itself? Boston Engagement Photos!! The city has SO many options for an engagement session, and you can totally dream up whatever you want. Whether that’s classic, cozy, modern, waterfront, downtown, really anything! If you’re looking for ideas for your Boston engagement photos, you’re in the right place. I’ve got a good one in store for you today.

When Meghan and I started planning her engagement session with Ryan, she knew immediately that she wanted to have them done in Boston. Of course I was thrilled, because I have a deep rooted love for Boston. We went back and forth a bit to nail down a location, and I sent her all my best recommendations. When I shoot an engagement session in Boston, I usually will recommend that we hit two places to get a ton of variety. After Meghan and Ryan reviewed my suggestions, they decided that the North End would be the perfect spot for their photos.

In addition to the North End, Meghan had another idea for their engagement session. When they first got together, Ryan introduced her to coffee – this was a little detail of their love story that Meghan wanted to include. When she suggested doing part of their session in a cafe, I was pretty much head over heels in love with the idea. Not only could we incorporate the charm of the North End, we could also include something meaningful to them and their relationship. The coffee shop idea was super cute, and it also provided them with a gallery of images that are true to them.

The cafe that Meghan chose was honestly the perfect backdrop for their photos. She chose this cafe because it’s her favorite spot to stop in for an espresso martini when she’s home in Boston. Did I mention that they traveled from D.C and PA to have their session with me? They are angels. Originally her idea was to stop there for a coffee, but when we arrived to the cafe they couldn’t resist getting a pair of espresso martinis.

The drinks were good for two things. One, the photos, of course. Espresso martinis are so classy and make for excellent props. And two, a little bit of alcohol helped them to loosen up and feel more comfortable in front of the camera. Grabbing a drink prior (or during) your session is something that I will often recommend to couples who express they are a bit nervous! Whether you want to stop at a bar before your session, or go to one of your favorite spots during your session, you can’t go wrong.

After the couple finished their martinis, we strolled around the North End and got some “classic” Boston shots. We ended up with a great amount of variety between the old brick buildings, cobblestone roads, and decorated store fronts. Even though it was a bit chilly on this late October night in Boston, we had such a lovely time exploring the North End together and grabbing photos along the way.

Boston Engagement Photo Session Ideas

Boston Cafe Coffee Date Engagement Photos

After strolling around Boston’s classic and historic North End, we made our way to Meghan’s chosen coffee shop. It was extra special because it was all decorated for Christmas, which added a little holiday flair. The couple grabbed their espresso martinis while I got set up at our table. With their drinks in hand, we got started shooting in the Boston cafe. We had a great time, and they even got a few compliments from others in the coffee shop.

How to Choose a Location for Your Engagement Photoshoot

Choosing a location for your engagement shoot can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be! Think of some of your favorite memories with you partner. Where were you? Think about your proposal, would you love that spot as a backdrop? Is there a certain vibe you’re going for? Have you seen any inspiration online that you feel would represent you both the best? Do you have a sentimental spot that is meaningful in your relationship? What do you like to do together? Do you love the beach? The mountains? The city? These are all questions that can help determine your ideal location for your engagement session. Your location will be the backdrop of all your images, of course, so choosing one you love is crucial!

When in doubt, ask your photographer for location recommendations! As a wedding and portrait photographer, I keep a running list of locations that I love to shoot at and that photograph well. If you tell me the vibe your wanting or any ideas you have, I can give a few suggestions that I think will best fit what you’re going for. I am also always happy to provide gallery examples at the locations I’ve shot at. If you already have a location in mind, I’m totally down to explore a new spot that I haven’t shot at before. After all, your engagement photo session is to tell your love story, so it should truly feel like you. It all starts with the location.

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