A Relaxed Engagement Session at the Dunedin Botanical Gardens
A couple of days ago I met up with this lovely couple for their engagement session at the Dunedin Botanical Gardens, and honestly, it reminded me why I love these sessions so much.
The gardens were looking incredible with all the autumn colours starting to come through. Everywhere you turned there were golden leaves, little pockets of light, and so many quiet spots to wander through. It's one of those locations that feels different every time I visit.
One thing I hear all the time is, "We're awkward in photos."
The truth is, most couples feel that way at the beginning. Very few people spend their weekends standing in front of a camera, so it's completely normal to feel a little unsure at first. That's why I don't expect anyone to know what to do. We usually start with a few simple prompts, have a chat, go for a walk, and before long people forget they're even having photos taken.
My favourite part of every engagement session is usually right at the end.
Once we've spent some time together and everyone has relaxed, I like to give couples a few minutes to do whatever they want. No prompts, no posing, no instructions from me. I step back and let them have a moment together.
Some couples walk hand in hand. Some chat about wedding plans. Some make each other laugh. Some just enjoy the quiet.
Those are often the moments that end up being my favourites.
There's something really special about seeing people forget the camera is there. The smiles become more natural, the interactions feel effortless, and the photos end up looking like real memories rather than a photoshoot.
As much as I love creating beautiful images, what I really want is for couples to look back at their gallery and remember how that season of life felt. The excitement of planning a wedding, the little conversations, the laughs, and all the in-between moments that often get overlooked.
Safe to say these two made my job very easy, and I left the gardens feeling pretty lucky that this is what I get to do for work.
If you're looking for a relaxed engagement photographer in Dunedin and want photos that feel natural and genuinely reflect your relationship, I'd love to hear from you.
