My favorite engagement shoots happen when a couple isn’t just in love, but able to express that in fun and goofy ways.

Last fall, I had the pleasure of shooting engagement portraits for Kelsey and Ryan. These photos were great because they were such a sweet couple that expressed a lot of emotion in their eyes and faces. That makes my job so much easier.

We really try to match the shoot location to the couple’s personality and interests. Since these two love wining and dining, we decided to start in Reading Terminal Market and Tired Hands Brew Café on the Main Line. (Award-winning nachos? Yes, please.)

I do a shoot there almost every month because it’s one of the most fun, iconic places in all of Philly. For Kelsey and Ryan, we focused more on the market side of things, with the ambiance of with fresh produce, food and seeds in the market. The vibe there is awesome.

To mix things up, we got them some desserts and captured a great shot of them eating Whoopi Pies. There’s one photo of them sitting on the ground eating with the reflection of the liberty bell sign lit with neon. I just loved that. Later, we went to the nearby museum and did great shots using the architecture there.

For JPG Photography, one of the best parts of engagement shoots is the chance to really get to know the couple before we shoot their wedding. Spending time and having drinks with this adorable couple gave us a wonderful opportunity to really see their personalities in a relaxed atmosphere as we planned ahead for their beautiful wedding last April.

Best, Joe G