Planning Engagement Photos in New Orleans? Here's what you should know!

Whether you were born and raised in New Orleans or are just planning a trip here, this city is one of the best places you could choose for your engagement photos! From the food to the architecture to the people, New Orleans just has something special to it, and that is why so many people call it home! When you visit, you will never meet a stranger; everyone will welcome you with open arms and greet you like they have known you your entire life!

As a New Orleanian and now a New Orleans wedding photographer, I get to see this city in a different light every day. And the more I shoot here, the more I fall in love with how effortlessly beautiful it is as a backdrop.

While the people make this place unforgettable, the real magic of New Orleans is woven right into the streets.

Founded in the early 1700s, New Orleans has passed through French and Spanish hands, which is why you'll find layers of French, Spanish, and Creole influence wrapped up in its culture and architecture. You can see that blend everywhere, from the pastel homes and wrought-iron balconies to the sound of jazz pouring out onto the streets of the French Quarter. It's a city that's beautiful at every turn and makes for the most gorgeous backdrop for your photos.

New Orleans has this way of turning any day into something special, and that is exactly how your photoshoot should feel, too!

Why New Orleans is the Perfect Place for Engagement Photos!

Growing up in New Orleans, I never really understood why people loved visiting this city so much. I'd travel to other places, see the mountains, the beaches, and all those picture-perfect backdrops, and honestly, I was jealous. I used to wish New Orleans was a "cooler" destination.

But as I've gotten older, I've realized the true beauty of this city runs so much deeper than a pretty view. We may not have mountain ranges or crystal-clear beaches, but what we DO have is something you cannot find anywhere else.

We have rows of colorful houses and wrought-iron balconies overflowing with greenery. We have oak trees that have stood for over a hundred years, stretching across streets and shading our parks. We have an unmatched culture, filled with music, flavor, and heart.

So if you are wondering why you should choose New Orleans as your destination for photos, it's simple: there is nowhere else like it. The city is full of romance, history, and personality. The kind that makes every photo feel alive. And just like the people here, your photos will have soul.

Are you starting to fall in love with New Orleans already?

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Why You Should Make Your Shoot Day a Date Day

You're only in your engagement era once in your life, so why not treat it like that? On your shoot day, make the WHOLE day about you and your partner. Start the morning slow: cook breakfast together, take a walk to your favorite coffee shop, or do something that feels like you two.

When it's time to get ready, make that part of the fun too. Talk about what you're most excited for during the session, or what you're planning to do afterward. Are you grabbing drinks or heading to dinner? (You definitely should, you're already dressed up and looking so good!)

Use that time to celebrate a little. Over dinner and drinks, you can recap your favorite moments from the photoshoot, talk about wedding planning, and just soak in the moment together. The photos are just part of the day, but the memories you make around them are what you will remember the most!

Ok, now for the fun part, let's talk about what you should wear to the photos!

What to Wear for Your New Orleans Engagement Photos?

What to wear truly depends on the vibe you're going for!

Do you want something super casual that feels like you just threw on an outfit and walked out the door together? Then jeans, a cute basic tee, and sneakers with simple jewelry are perfect. This looks beautiful because it feels natural, like it's just the two of you, comfortable and happy. Those outfits work especially well if we are shooting in a neighborhood like Uptown or the Marigny, surrounded by colorful houses and cozy streets.

Want to get all dressed up for your session? Then let's do it! Throw on your favorite cocktail dress (or a flowy maxi dress if that's more your style) and make it feel like a date night! A dress that moves adds so much life to your photos, especially if we are shooting somewhere like City Park or the French Quarter, where the scenery feels timeless and romantic. We can even sneak in some fun flash photos for a more glamorous, editorial vibe.

You can also mix it up and do both, one casual outfit and one dressed-up look! That way, you'll have a gallery that feels like a great mix of the everyday moments and the elevated ones too!

At the end of the day, what you wear should feel like you. The best photos happen when you're comfortable and confident, whether that's in sneakers or heels. Avoid clothes that feel stiff or super trendy; instead, go for colors and textures that complement your surroundings. Neutrals, soft patterns, or earthy tones always photograph beautifully in New Orleans since they balance out the city's vibrant backdrops.

Once you've got the outfit basics down the next step is figuring out the vibe for your session. Your outfits, locations, and energy all come together to tell your story, so think about what kind of feeling you want your photos to have!

Romantic & Timeless

Think soft colors, flowy fabrics, and that dreamy golden-hour light! This vibe fits perfectly with places like City Park or Longue Vue Gardens, surrounded by oak trees and flowers. It's the kind of look that never goes out of style!

Playful & Candid

If your goal is to capture your natural connection, the laughter, inside jokes, and goofy moments, this is your vibe! Go for something comfortable and easy to move in. Jeans, sneakers, and cozy layers work great for exploring spots like Uptown, Magazine Street, or the French Market. These sessions feel like a real date, not a photoshoot, and that's what makes them so fun.

Editorial & Glam

Want something bold and dramatic? I'm here for it. Think statement outfits, structured silhouettes, or fun textures like satin or sequins. Pair that with flash photos at night or chic backdrops like downtown, and your session will look straight out of a magazine.

Cozy & Intimate

For couples who love a slower pace, this vibe is all about quiet moments, cozy cafes, morning light, or even an in-home session. Think sweaters, neutrals, and warm textures. It's perfect if you want your photos to feel like a Sunday morning together instead of a big production.

No matter which vibe you choose, the most important thing is that it feels like you. Every couple has its own rhythm, and my job is to help bring that to life in a way that feels effortless and genuine.

Best Photoshoot Locations in New Orleans

Now that you know a little bit about the history of New Orleans and have a vibe and outfit picked out, let's talk about locations!

City Park & Audubon Park

If you picture dreamy oak trees draped in Spanish moss, this is the spot. Both City Park and Audubon Park are home to hundred-year-old oaks that have stood strong through hurricanes (including Katrina), and they create a timeless romantic backdrop for photos.

Between the winding paths, bridges, and soft golden light, these parks are perfect for couples who love that classic Southern feel.

Uptown

If you want something a little more laid-back and local, Uptown is full of charm. Think colorful houses, quiet neighborhoods, and cute corner shops; it's one of those places that make your photos feel effortlessly natural. I love shooting here because it feels like real life, but prettier. You get a little bit of everything: cozy streets, coffee runs, and those bright New Orleans colors that pop so beautifully in photos.

The French Quarter

You can't talk about photos in New Orleans without mentioning the French Quarter! It's fun, historic, and full of color at every turn. Between the wrought-iron balconies, pastel buildings, and cobblestone streets, it's the perfect mix of romance and chaos in the best way. Whether you're walking hand-in-hand down Royal Street or grabbing beignets at Café Du Monde, it's impossible not to capture magic here.

Longue Vue House & Gardens

If you want your photos to feel straight out of a fairytale, Longue Vue House & Gardens is the dreamiest setting. The manicured lawns, blooming flowers, and elegant mansion make it feel like you've stepped into another world. There is a photography fee to shoot here, but it's 100% worth it; the photos always turn out stunning and timeless!

Magazine Street

Magazine Street gives you that perfect mix of local and lively. It stretches for miles and is lined with colorful storefronts, boutiques, and restaurants that create the cutest backdrops. It's great for couples who want something casual and fun, plus you can easily grab tacos at Barracuda or a coffee at Congregation after your session!

Lakefront

For a more relaxed, breezy setting, the lakefront is so underrated. The sunsets here are beautiful, and the open water gives your photos this calm golden glow that feels straight out of a postcard. It's especially dreamy for engagement or anniversary sessions where you just want to hang out, laugh, and take in the view.

Are you loving what you are hearing and want to book your dream New Orleans engagement shoot?

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When to Take Engagement Photos in New Orleans

New Orleans is unique because well... we don't really have seasons. I know, it's wild. It's basically hot for half the year, then a little cooler for a bit, and then cold for what feels like 5 minutes. We may not have the changing fall leaves or snowy winters, but the upside is that you can take photos year-round here in New Orleans. So let's break down what each "season" looks like.

Summer (May-September)

This is probably the least popular time to take photos (and, let's be honest, to be outside in general). It's hot, humid, and the mosquitoes love to make their grand entrance at sunset. But does that mean you can't take photos in the summer? Absolutely not! The late sunsets are gorgeous and give you the dreamiest golden light. Just know you'll probably be a little sweaty (okay, a LOT sweaty), but if you're up for taking a few breaks in the car or stepping inside to cool off, summer sessions can still be beautiful!

Winter (Mid-November- Early February)

Winter in New Orleans is mild compared to most places. Sure, 40 degrees might sound fine to you if you're from up north, but down here? That's freezing!! Don't worry, though, I come prepared with hand warmers and lots of layers to make sure you stay cozy while we capture those dreamy shots. The cooler temps also mean less humidity, fewer crowds, and that soft winter light that makes every photo feel a little extra romantic!

Spring (Late February-April)

Spring is hands-down my favorite time to shoot in New Orleans. Everything is coming back to life, there's a soft breeze in the air, and the weather is just 10 out of 10. You can wear anything from flowy dresses to light layers without melting. If I had to pick the perfect time for photos here, it would be spring. (and bonus for my out-of-town couples, it's also crawfish season!)

Okay, now that we've covered the photos (the locations, vibes, outfits, and all the things) let's get into the fun extras! Because you're session doesn't have to be just photos. If you're going to be in New Orleans, you might as well enjoy it! Here are some of my favorite places to grab coffee, eat, explore, and even stay if you are making a whole weekend out of it!

Coffee Shops In New Orleans

New Orleans has a ton of small businesses, and it's always worth remembering to support local when visiting new cities! One of my favorite things to look for when I travel is local coffee shops, and New Orleans definitely delivers. The City is full of cozy spots with great coffee and even better vibes!

Trumpet and Drum is one of my go-to coffee shops, located at 3642 Magazine St. They serve delicious coffee, seasonal drinks (the iced vanilla latte is my favorite!), and delicious pastries all in a super welcoming atmosphere. There's plenty of indoor seating if you want to sit and chat for a while, plus an outdoor courtyard that's perfect once the weather cools down.

Lower Coast Coffee is another great stop at 318 Magazine St, right next door to Dat Dog (a NOLA classic) and surrounded by tons of local boutiques. It's the perfect spot to fuel up before an afternoon full of shopping!

Congregation Coffee might just take the top spot for me, though. Located at 900 Jefferson Ave, on the corner of Magazine and Jefferson, it's home to my favorite pistachio latte. They also serve breakfast burritos, sell their own coffee beans, and have the cutest merch. It's such a good morning pick-me-up spot.

And if you find yourself exploring beyond Magazine Street, Coffee Science is another must-visit. They have two locations, one on Broad Street (410 S Broad St) and one connected to Smoke and Honey on Bienville (3301 Bienville St). Both are great for a little caffeine break between adventures. My go-to order here is the Honey Badger!

Fancier Places to Eat

Pascal's Manale is one of my favorite restaurants in New Orleans! It was founded by a Sicilian immigrant, Frank Manaele, and is actually where the famous BBQ shrimp dish was created. (If you couldn't guess, that's my go-to order!) If you don't mind getting your hands a little messy, I 100% recommend trying it; it's so worth it!

Irene's is an upscale Italian restaurant with a little New Orleans flair. It's a popular spot, so if you're planning a romantic date night after your photos, definitely make a reservation ahead of time. Eating at Irene's is an experience, not something to rush through. Take your time, enjoy a drink. soak in the atmosphere, and celebrate together! If you're wrapping up your engagement photoshoot day, Irene's is the perfect place to keep the memories going because the experience doesn't end with the photos!

Antoine's is another incredible dining experience and one of the oldest family-run restaurants in the city. Known for its French-Creole cuisine, it's been a New Orleans staple since 1840 and is the birthplace of classics like Oysters Rockefeller, Eggs Sardou, and Pommes de Terre Soufflées. The restaurant itself feels like a piece of history, decorated with Mardi Gras memorabilia and rooms dedicated to different krewes like the famous Rex Room. If you want dinner to feel like part of the experience, Antoine's is the spot!

Quick + Casual Places to Eat

Ok, Barracuda is one of my go-to spots!! And it may sound crazy (because it sounded crazy to me at first), but the broccoli taco is my absolute favorite thing on the menu, paired with their limeade, it's perfection. But enough about my order, Barracuda is a cute little taco stand at 3984 Tchoupitoulas St. It's the perfect place to grab a few margaritas and enjoy their outdoor seating (yes, even in the New Orleans heat, it's worth it!)

They've got great happy hour deals, too: $7 margs, $3 beers, and $6 nachos, queso, and crunchy tacos from 3-6 pm on weekdays. And if you're in the mood for breakfast tacos, they've got you covered there, too! The only catch? You might have to wait in line, but trust me, this is a must-try spot!

If you are looking for a cozy breakfast or brunch spot, Satsuma on Maple is it! It gives total Gilmore Girls vibes, like a New Orleans version of Luke's Café. They have both indoor and outdoor seating and if you're a coffee person in the morning, you'll love that they serve beans from HEY Coffee, another local favorite. It's such a sweet way to start your day before or after photos!

Ok, Dat Dog is a New Orleans classic. If I'm being honest, I'm not a huge hot dog person, but the vibes here are unmatched. It's colorful, fun, and full of laid-back NOLA energy. Definitely one of those places worth checking out!

For something a little different, Shaya serves incredible modern Israeli cuisine with a Southern twist. The pita bread is freshly made and comes out warm and fluffy, and every dish feels super fresh and flavorful. It's casual enough for lunch but still feels special!

If you love Mediterranean food, 1000 Figs is another gem. They serve everything from falafel and hummus plates to seasonal salads, and it's one of those simple-but-delicious spots that locals love. It's cozy ,quick, and always a good idea when you want something light but satisfying.

Where to Stay in New Orleans

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or turning your photoshoot into a little staycation, New Orleans has soo many cute and historic places to stay! From charming boutique hotels to elegant icons, there's something for every kind of trip. Here are a few of my favorites:

Hotel Peter and Paul

If you want a stay that feels like a story, this is it. Hotel Peter and Paul was once a 19th-century church, rectory, and schoolhouse, now turned into one of the dreamiest boutique hotels in the city. The rooms are full of vintage details, soft colors, and cozy charm. It's tucked away in the Marigny, just a few blocks from the French Quarter, which makes it perfect for exploring while still feeling peaceful.

The Chloe

The Chloe is a total vibe, think colorful, artsy, and effortlessly cool. It's set inside a renovated mansion on St. Charles Avenue, with an intimate pool, on-site restaurant, and bar that locals actually go to (which says a lot). The decor feels like old-school New Orleans meets modern design. It's a smaller boutique hotel, so it feels super personal and romantic.

Columns

If your style leans classic and timeless, Columns is right up your alley. It's another historic mansion on St. Charles with a moody cocktail bar, gorgeous architecture, and tons of character. You might recognize it from photoshoots or movie,s it's that beautiful. The porch is the perfect place to sit with a drink and people-watch as the streetcars go by.

Hotel Saint Vincent

If you love unique design and a little luxury, Hotel Saint Vincent in the Lower Garden District is the spot. The building dates back to the 1800s and has been completely transformed into a modern boutique hotel that still keeps its old soul. The interiors are stunning, with bold colors, vintage accents, and tons of character. There's a beautiful courtyard, a pool, and two amazing restaurants on site. It's the kind of place where you'll want to take photos everywhere you turn.

The Garden District Hotel

The Garden District Hotel is a hidden gem that feels like home. It's surrounded by oak trees, historic homes, and quiet streets, perfect for couples who want something a little more low-key and residential. You're still close to Magazine Street, so restaurants, shopping, and coffee shops are all within walking distance.

The Roosevelt

If you're going for something a little more grand, The Roosevelt is a New Orleans classic. It's elegant, full of history, and home to the famous Sazerac Bar (which is worth a visit even if you're not staying there). During the holidays, the lobby transforms into a full-on winter wonderland, it 's that iconic photo spot you've probably seen all over Instagram.

Hotel Monteleone

Last but definitely not least, Hotel Monteleone sits right in the heart of the French Quarter. It's historic, charming, and famous for its Carousel Bar, a slowly rotating bar that's as fun as it is beautiful. If you're looking for that quintessential New Orleans Stay with easy access to everything, this one's hard to beat!

Fun Things to Do While You're Here

If you're making a weekend out of your photoshoot (which I totally recommend), there's no shortage of fun things to do around New Orleans! Whether you love art, food, or just walking around soaking up the city's energy, there's something here for everyone.

The French Market

You can't come to New Orleans without strolling through The French Market! It's full of all kinds of things like handmade jewelry, food stands, and souvenirs. Even if you're just browsing, it's such a fun way to spend a morning and grab a snack or two while you're at it.

Jackson Square

Just a few steps away, Jackson Square is one of the most iconic spots in the city. Between the street performers, artists, and the view of St. Louis Cathedral, it's one of those places that feels like New Orleans.

NOMA (New Orleans Museum of Art)

If you love art or just want to escape the heat for a bit, NOMA is such a peaceful stop. It's surrounded by City Park, which means you can walk through the sculpture garden afterward. There's something so calming and beautiful about it!

Jazz Brunch or Riverboat Cruise on the Creole Queen

For a true NOLA experience, a jazz brunch or a riverboat cruise on the Creole Queen is always a good idea. There's live music, great food, and the prettiest views of the city from the water. It's one of those classic experiences that makes you fall in love with New Orleans all over again.

Longue Vue Gardens

If you're into architecture, gardens, or just peaceful places, Longue Vue Gardens is such a hidden gem. It's full of blooming flowers, gorgeous walkways, and a beautiful historic mansion, it's honestly one of the most serene places in the city.

The Zoo + Aquarium

The Audubon Zoo and Aquarium are perfect if you're looking for something lighthearted and fun. They're both beautifully kept and full of that New Orleans charm (and perfect if you're traveling with family or just want something relaxing between meals and exploring).

Botanical Gardens

Inside City Park, the Botanical Gardens are another spot worth adding to your list. It's colorful, quiet, and the perfect backdrop for photos or peaceful walks especially in spring when everything is in bloom!

Seeing a Show at The Saenger

If you want to end your night with something extra special, catching a show at The Saenger is such a fun idea. The theater is beautiful inside like "Old Hollywood meetts New Orleans" and they always have Broadway shows, concerts, or comedy nights happening!

And of course... just walking around the French Quarter

Honestly, one of the best things to do here is simply wander. Every street has its own character, and you'll find cute cafes, music floating through the air, and the prettiest pastel building everywhere you turn.

My Approach to Capturing Your Photos

If you're here, loving my style, and vibing with everything you've read so far, let's chat a little about my approach to capturing your photos!

When you book, I'll always ask if you have a vision or inspo board. If you do amazing! I LOVE seeing your ideas and helping bring them to life. And if you're not exactly sure what you want yet, that's totally okay, too. I'll help you create a vision that feels true to you and your story.

On the day of your session, my approach is a mix of candid, posed, and prompted moments. That means you'll probably find yourselves walking, running, dancing, spinning, and chasing each other around, cuddling, and laughing together. I'll guide you through everything so it never feels stiff or awkward; it'll just feel like hanging out and having a really fun day together!

Sure, we'll get a few classic smiling-at-the-camera shots too, but my goal is for your photos to feel relaxed and real, like you two. I want you to look back and remember how it felt not just how it looked.

If you love music, we can even build a little playlist for your shoot so you can vibe to your favorite artist while we shoot (yes, even if that means singing or dancing between poses, I'm all for it!).

You don't have to know how to pose or what to do with your hands, that's my job! I'll guide you every step of the way, keeping it easy and natural. I've photographed so many couples who swore they were "awkward in front of the camera," and by the end, they were laughing, relaxed, and totally in their element. You just have to show up and be yourselves. I'll take care of the rest.

And at the end of the day, the secret to stunning, beautiful photos isn't about the perfect pose or outfit, it's about being completely in love with your partner. When you let that joy show, you can SEE it in every single image. The huge smiles, the heart-in-your-eyes kind of love, and that "we're just so obsessed with each other" energy that makes your photos come alive.

Let's Plan Your New Orleans Engagement Session

If you've made it this far, you probably get it, New Orleans just has a way about it. It's full of character, charm, and a whole lot of heart. Whether you're from here or just visiting, I'd love to help you capture what makes this city (and your relationship) so special.

My sessions are laid-back, fun, and real. We'll plan a day that actually feels like you two, maybe exploring the French Quarter, grabbing coffee on Magazine, or walking through City Park at sunset. You don't have to worry about posing or being "good at photos." You just get to show up, be yourself, and let me do the rest.

If you are ready to make some photos that feel honest and true, the kind you'll look back on and think, yep, that's us, I'd love to chat! Reach out, and let's start planning your New Orleans Session!

Inquire here to start planning your New Orleans engagement photos! I cannot wait to meet you, hear your story, and capture your love in the heart of this incredible city!

Let's Plan Your Dream NOLA Engagement Shoot!