Spring is here and if you are having a fall wedding this year and have not already scheduled your photographer for engagement photos this is for you! Below you will find reasons why you should hire a photographer for your engagement photos and some fun places in Peoria, IL and Central Illinois to take engagement photos.
Engagement Session
To feel more relaxed on your wedding day, getting engagement photos done with your photographer will make you feel more relaxed for your wedding day. Why is that? The reason for this is that most people do not like to be in front of the camera and if you do this it will make you feel more comfortable knowing the poses your photographer will ask you to be in. For your wedding day, you both will be naturals and already know what poses work for you. This will also help your photographer too, to see what poses look the best in your photos! It is truly the best of both worlds if you decide to get your engagement photos done!
MVP
If you did not hire a Wedding Coordinator, your photographer will be the person you are speaking with your entire wedding day. You want to find a photographer in Peoria, IL that works well with you, and this will also help if you do an engagement session to make sure you all get along. If you and your groom are not having fun getting your photos taken with your photographer, you may need to consider finding someone else!
Save the Dates
Another reason to get your photos taken are for your save the dates! Why not get all dressed up and have some fun before the wedding with taking some engagement photos with your wedding photographer. It is important to get these taken so you can have some professional prints done for them! Your save the dates should be sent out four to six months before your wedding date. Your photographer will send you a few favorites immediately, so you can get your save the dates ready.
Engagement Photo Spots
It is very hard to pick a place to take your engagement photos because there are so many options. But you cannot go wrong with an open field, beautiful park or garden. Try to think about a spot you and your future spouse like to be. Are you city people or county people? Make sure to plan your engagement photo spot on what you both like. Do your best to make this decision all about you two!
Best Places for Engagement Photos in Central Illinois/Peoria, IL
Central Illinois and the Peoria area offer a variety of beautiful locations for engagement photos. Here are some popular options:
- Bradley University Campus: The Bradley University campus in Peoria has lovely architecture, green spaces, and walkways that provide a charming backdrop for engagement photos.
- Detweiller Park: This park offers scenic trails, lush greenery, and even a beautiful lake. It’s a great spot for capturing both natural landscapes and intimate moments.
- Luthy Botanical Garden: This garden features a wide array of plant collections, including formal gardens, a tropical conservatory, and a tranquil pond. It’s an ideal place for romantic and colorful engagement photos.
- Grandview Drive: Known as the “World’s Most Beautiful Drive,” Grandview Drive offers stunning views of the Illinois River Valley. The scenic overlooks and tree-lined streets make for a picturesque setting.
- Peoria Riverfront: The riverfront area provides a mix of urban and natural scenery. You can capture shots near the river, on the Riverfront Trail, or against the backdrop of the skyline.
- Tawny Oaks Field Station: Located just outside Peoria, this field station offers a mix of prairie, woodland, and wetland landscapes. It’s a unique location that can add a rustic touch to your engagement photos.
- Ewing Manor: Located in Bloomington, a bit north of Peoria, Ewing Manor is a historic estate with elegant gardens, fountains, and architectural details that make for a sophisticated backdrop.
- David Davis Mansion: Also in Bloomington, this mansion provides Victorian-era charm and beautifully maintained grounds that are perfect for capturing timeless engagement photos.
- Wildlife Prairie Park: This park combines natural beauty with animal encounters. You can take photos in front of scenic vistas and get creative with the wildlife around you.
- Lakeview Museum Planetarium: If you’re looking for a more unique and modern setting, the Lakeview Museum Planetarium can offer a space-themed backdrop for your engagement photos.
Remember to consider the season and time of day when planning your engagement photo shoot. Different locations might shine at different times of the year. Also, reach out to the venues or parks beforehand to check if any permits are required for professional photography sessions.
Complete Weddings + Events – Wedding Photographers in Peoria, IL & Central Illinois
If you are still looking to make your wedding day complete, book your services with Complete Weddings + Events in Central Illinois! We offer DJs, Photographers, Videographers, Photo Booth Rentals, and Day of Coordination! Contact us to receive pricing.
To learn more about our wedding and engagement photographers in Peoria, IL, and the surrounding Central Illinois areas, click here.