ENGAGEMENT SESSIONS MATTER. HERE’S WHY.
- THE OVIATT
- Apr 16
- 5 min read
An engagement session is often one of the first things couples book in their wedding planning timeline, and at first, it can feel like a simple step. A few photos for a save-the-date can feel like just another item on the list. But in reality, it often becomes something much more meaningful, evolving into a moment that reflects your connection and sets the tone for everything that follows.
Over time, we’ve seen how engagement sessions not only help couples prepare for their wedding day, but also create some of the most relaxed and memorable images along the way.
Being in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, we’re surrounded by a unique mix of architecture, textures, and iconic locations, all within walking distance. It creates a backdrop that feels cinematic and personal at the same time, which is exactly what more couples are drawn to as in 2026.
While some still gravitate toward more traditional, posed photos, there’s been a clear shift toward something more authentic. Couples are increasingly looking to capture real moments, genuine connection, and a version of their relationship that feels true to them. It’s a shift we’ve loved seeing evolve in so many different ways.
Why Engagement Sessions Are Worth It
Beyond the photos themselves, engagement sessions play an important role in the overall experience of planning a wedding.
They give couples the opportunity to get comfortable in front of the camera, turning something that might feel unfamiliar at first into something that quickly becomes natural. This makes a noticeable difference on the wedding day, while also helping build a relationship with your photographer.
Engagement sessions also help define the tone of your wedding photography. Whether you’re drawn to something editorial, romantic, playful, or candid, this is where that direction begins to take shape.
And of course, the photos themselves live far beyond the session. They become part of your save-the-dates, your wedding website, your guest book, and often pieces you’ll keep long after the celebration.
More than anything, they create space to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy a moment together during a time that can otherwise feel fast-paced and detail-heavy.
Engagement Photo Sessions - Soda Fountain Photography
A Shift in How Engagement Sessions Feel
Engagement sessions today feel different than they did even a few years ago.
They’ve shifted away from being purely about posing and are now more focused on presence. Couples are leaning into movement, interaction, and environments that feel like a true extension of who they are. Outfits feel more relaxed but still intentional, and locations are chosen for meaning rather than just aesthetics.
There’s also a growing preference for sessions that feel like a moment rather than a photoshoot. Less direction, more trust. Less perfection, more personality. The result is a collection of images that feels much more personal.
One of our preferred partners, Soda Fountain Photography, has captured many couples throughout Downtown Los Angeles, and their familiarity with the area is something we truly value.
Mysi not only has a talent for capturing spontaneous moments, but also a deep understanding of the neighborhood. From The Oviatt itself to the many tucked-away corners nearby, she helps guide couples through a variety of locations that feel both elevated and personal.
That combination allows couples to walk away with a diverse set of images. Not just something to use for a save-the-date, but a collection of moments they’ll continue to love and revisit long after their wedding day. It’s also why we asked Mysi to share a bit about her approach and what couples should keep in mind when planning their engagement session.
Robyn & Sven - Engagement Photos - Soda Fountain Photography
In Conversation with
Mysi of Soda Fountain Photography
What should couples keep in mind when choosing a photographer for their engagement session?
Find someone who is excited to create art around you. Your engagement session is a chance to play, get comfortable in front of the camera, and show off who you are. Don’t just choose someone who takes a good photo… choose someone you trust to tell your story.
What do you wish more couples knew before their session?
Most people think they’re unphotogenic. It’s just not true. My whole job is helping people feel comfortable and showing them how freaking beautiful they are. You don’t have to smile for the camera. You can, and you might, but you don’t have to. What actually matters is being together, breathing, moving, laughing… letting yourselves exist as the gorgeous creatures you are.
Can you share any tips that help couples define the style they want for their photos?
I don’t really give fashion advice… I don’t even wear matching socks. But I do care that you feel comfortable. Wear something you can move in. Dance in. Sit on the ground in. Get a little messy in. If you feel restricted, your photos will feel restricted too. The goal is to feel like yourselves and let that lead everything else.
How do engagement sessions help couples prepare for their wedding day?
You’ll be in front of a camera for a while on your wedding day, and if that’s new for you, this is the easiest way to get comfortable with it. You learn how I work, how I guide, and how quickly things stop feeling awkward. By the time your wedding comes around, it just feels familiar… and you get to stay present instead of thinking about the camera.
Mini sessions vs. full sessions: what’s the difference, and how can couples decide what’s right for them?
Mini sessions are quick and fun. I can pull out a lot of personality in a short amount of time!! Full sessions give us space. We can go to multiple locations, follow your energy, and build something that feels more layered and personal. If you bowl, we should go bowling. If you’re artists, maybe you finger paint each other. Roller skating, dancing at the club, playing with your dogs, whatever feels like you… that’s the good stuff.
Soda Fountain Photography, led by Mysi, is known for capturing love in a way that feels natural, colorful, and full of personality.
With over 14 years of experience and more than 300 weddings photographed, Mysi has developed a style that embraces connection, movement, and what she describes as joyful disarray. Her work goes beyond weddings, spanning events, lifestyle sessions, and candid moments that feel honest and full of life.
As one of our trusted partners, we’ve loved seeing the way she captures both our space and the couples who celebrate within it.
Robyn & Sven - Engagement Photos - Soda Fountain Photography
A Moment Worth Taking
Engagement sessions are not just about photos. They are about creating a moment and celebrating the experience of being engaged.
Whether you choose to capture that moment at The Oviatt or somewhere else in Downtown Los Angeles, we hope this gives you a clearer sense of what to look for, how to prepare, and how to find a style that truly feels like you.
Because at the end of the day, it’s one of the few parts of the process that is simply about the two of you.
If you’re interested in learning more about hosting your engagement session at The Oviatt or working with one of our trusted creative partners, our event team is always ready and happy to help.
