Seattle Engagement Photographer & Guide

Everything you need to know about engagement photography in Seattle & Western Washington. From cost, to location and timing, and more; written by your very own professional, Seattle Wedding and Engagement Photographer.

How much should you spend on an engagement photographer? How much does a photographer cost in Seattle?

This varies throughout the industry, based on experience level, local market, and services offered. Most couples typically spend $800-$1500 on engagement photography services (my pricing is in the middle of that range), and keep in mind that there is sales tax in Washington state. Most couples can expect professional engagement photography services to include a variety of tasks, outside of just taking the photos, editing, and delivering them. For example, all of my clients receive location selection assistance, timeline construction, outfit/styling assistance, and an open Q&A platform. Additionally, a professional photographer should get to know their client a bit prior to the engagement session as well, so the session itself has a more tailored, personal experience.

In regards to deliverables, a couple can expect approximately 50-100 photos to be edited and delivered in a high resolution “viewing gallery” with unlimited printing rights and digital downloads.

How long do engagement photos take?

Engagement photography sessions are typically 1-3 hours in length. Most are about an hour or so, with a few being longer if there’s a wardrobe change or location change. While working with clients, we typically aren’t taking photos the whole time. We’ll spend time chatting and getting to know each other a little bit, walking to the best location, and having fun adventuring. This creates a chill atmosphere for the session, resulting in more natural, candid photos.

Are engagement photos worth it?

YES! Absolutely. As somebody that will be having their engagement photos taken shortly, yes. As a wedding and engagement photographer myself, yes. They’re absolutely worth it. You get to document a temporary, transitional time in your life that’s so important. You’ll receive beautiful photos of you and your partner to decorate your home with. You can also use the photos for save the dates, invitations, and reception decorations. Your family and friends will be happy to see them, too!

From a photographer’s perspective, they help the client experience immensely. The three of us can get more comfortable around each other prior to your wedding day, which will help your wedding day photos turn out even better!

Best Time to take Engagement Photos

Although you can do whatever works best for you, there’s 3 main times to take engagement photos.

1. Shortly after getting engaged! The excitement is there, and you just want to celebrate your engagement and this time in your life. In this stage, you can easily use your photos for save the dates and invitations, since you’ll likely have them delivered before you send those out.
2. Shortly after you hire your wedding photographer! This option is most popular for a few reasons. There’s still the possibility of using your photos for save the dates/invitations (if you’re quick!). Most couples book an engagement session with their wedding photographer. And it may be included at a discounted rate with the wedding photography package!
3. A few months before your wedding date. In this scenario, couples usually already have their invitations and save the dates sent or ready. There’s still a ton of value in working with your photographer prior to your wedding day, and you can still get the photos printed before your wedding day.

In theory, you can take your engagement photos anytime you want to. Most couples do them Spring through Fall for the best weather possible. Winter is possible, but the days are short, windy and cold so come prepared!

Best Places for Engagement Photos In/Around Seattle

Seattle and Western Washington is known for it’s stunning scenery. From the rugged coast of the Pacific Ocean that fills the water of Puget Sound, to the stunning Cascade and Olympic mountains – it can be hard to pick!

Alki Beach

Washington Park / UW Arboretum

Kerry Park

Golden Gardens

Pioneer Square / Occidental Square

Elliot Bay – Olympic Sculpture Park /

Ferry Ride

Discovery Park

Discovery Park is 534 acres of natural area. It’s the largest city park within Seattle, and features fields, forests, and the beach! The beach has a phenomenal view, and on clear days you can see Mount Rainier in the distance.

Gas Works Park

Gas Works Park is also a popular choice since it features such a beautiful skyline of Seattle in the background. The view rivals Kerry Park, but it has much more room to walk around. It’s popular in Summer afternoons/evenings, so if you want to avoid crowds – it’s best to do sunrise/morning. In the off season, though, it’s much easier to enjoy!

Rattlesnake Lake

Rattlesnake Lake is only 40 minutes east of Seattle, and is a gorgeous alpine lake! Just outside of North Bend, Rattlesnake Lake is popular for its beach, forests and obviously – lake view! This location is prettiest just after sunrise and just before sunset. The sunlight fills up the valley and the surrounding mountains.

Gold Creek Pond

An hour east of Seattle, nestled in the Central Cascades is Gold Creek Pond! An alpine lake fed by glacier run off, its popular for its great views and easy access (5 minute walk from the parking lot). The last road is a forest service road with bumps and gravel, but just about any car can make it if you take it slow.

Best Places for Engagement Photos in Washington State

A lot of couples considering getting their engagement photos done in Seattle, also consider outside locations! Washington has so much scenery to offer, it’s hard not to consider all the options.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is easily one of the best places for engagement photos. With alpine lakes like Lake Crescent, rainforests such as the Hoh, and mountain views at Hurricane Ridge – what’s not to love? Most couples can include 2 locations/landscapes in their engagement session, providing a huge variety in photos.

Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is easily one of the best places to take your engagement photos. Open from summer into early fall, it’s idyllic for it’s stunning variety of scenery. Alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, waterfalls, mountains and wildlife. It’s an outdoor enthusiast’s dream! It’s best to avoid crowds by going on a weekday. Sunsets are typically best since it gives the clouds a chance to burn off throughout the day.

Meet Your Local Seattle Engagement Photographer!

Why I love Seattle Engagement & Wedding Photography

Being a Seattle engagement photographer and wedding photographer is so much more than just taking pretty photos. Getting to know couples at an exciting time in their life is such a meaningful experience. I get to create beautiful memories of people with their closest loved ones, and they get to look back on those memories forever! These photos are shared with friends and family members, and it’s such an honor to be an engagement and wedding photographer for a living. Curious about my wedding photography services? Check this out!

Just want to follow along on social media? That’s great, too! Here’s my instagram!

Looking for a wedding planner? Check out my guide to the best Seattle Wedding Planners here!