2025 Lifestyle Engagement Portraits - Diamond Awards

For two decades, the Wedding Photojournalist Association has been presenting awards to documentary photographers who showcase style, creativity and passion during their engagement portrait sessions.

Pre-wedding portrait shoots have become increasingly popular in recent years, with more couples being interested in having images to cherish from this special time in their lives. The best engagement photographers know that the environment for these portrait sessions is critical, as it plays a pivotal role in the story that is told. While on location, photographers need to have a creative eye — they should always be searching for details that can be incorporated into the portrait or a landscape that will set the mood. When the photographer works with the couple to uncover the perfect location, the couple will feel relaxed, happy and completely natural in that space. The end result is a set of breathtaking images that highlight their relationship in an artistic and expressive way.

From playful portraits on the beach to formal, black-and-white images, the WPJA Diamond Award winners below showcase the spectrum of possibilities that lie in the engagement portrait category. Here, you will find inspiration for an original engagement portrait session.

A young engaged couple enjoys each other's company in downtown Sacramento, CA, with the striking city skyline providing a romantic and vibrant urban backdrop.

P.J. Oswald

In London, England, a couple poses for a portrait near Tower Bridge. Their hands press together at the palms, with her engagement ring in sharp focus.

Gyula Lovaszi

Engagement portrait of the future groom tenderly embracing his fiancée and planting a kiss on her temple at Parc du Château de Franqueville, Bizanos, Pyrénées Atlantiques, as she smiles.

Lisa Baquerin

An affectionate couple poses in front of UC Berkeley's iconic clock tower, showcasing their engagement and collegiate connection, against a clear blue California sky.

Chris Shum

At Villarino Park in Santa Fe, Argentina, an engaged couple stands face to face near a row of trees as the sun sets. The backlit warm glow creates silhouettes, capturing the romance and timelessness in this picturesque rural setting.

Pablo Banterla

A joyful couple celebrates their engagement on Sand Beach, Stonington, Maine, with warm smiles and gentle waves creating a picturesque, serene backdrop.

Hailey Crabtree

In Golden, Colorado, an engaged couple poses on rugged rocks, surrounded by pine trees. Clouds drift overhead, and a photographer's light casts a glow on their smiling faces.

Bonnie Sizer

In Rocky Mountain National Park, a couple's engagement session captures them in an embrace at a scenic lookout point. The photographer's lighting accentuates their warm pose, complemented by dramatic clouds in the backdrop.

Joe Pyle

Engagement portrait of a couple in Bellvue, Colorado, sharing an embrace surrounded by vibrant fall foliage.

Mark Creery

Fashion-forward couple in sleek black outfits, standing confidently in the bustling urban streets of the Bund, Shanghai, China.

Seven Tao

Black-and-white portrait of a couple holding each other tightly in front of a tree in Anost, exuding warmth and affection.

Claire Willem

Engaged couple in a tender embrace, framed by the picturesque Rialto Bridge and the charming canals of Venice.

Luca Fabbian

In a London park, an engaged couple shares a gentle embrace framed vertically against a backdrop of blooming flowers. The vibrant blossoms overhead create a romantic and enchanting setting for their portrait.

Chaiyasith Junjuerdee

An outdoorsy couple revels in the stunning mountainous landscape of Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park, Colorado, capturing their adventurous spirit in engagement photos.

Gretchen Troop

In Kayseri, Türkiye, a couple's Cappadocia pre-wedding photo session captures them surrounded by majestic horses, against the region's stunning landscapes.

Ufuk Sarisen

A couple shares an intimate pose in front of the iconic Guinness St. James Gate in Dublin, captured in a timeless black-and-white shot.

Timmy Keane

On Chatham Light House Beach, Massachusetts, she leans into him, eyes softly closed, embracing his warmth under a deep blue sky that reflects their boundless love.

Ewerton Decastro

Engagement portrait of a couple in Old Town, Fort Collins, Colorado, enjoying the glow of their engagement at dusk.

Mark Creery

In Danbury, CT, an engaged couple stands on a sunlit residential street with their puppy. The warm sunshine highlights their joy and connection in their neighborhood.

Thaddeus Ladzinski

In Saint-Remèze, France, an engaged couple enjoys a picturesque engagement session in a lavender field. The horizon sits at the middle of the vertical frame, with vibrant purple flowers filling the lower half and a serene white sky above.

Camille Ravel

In Bellvue, Colorado, a couple shares a kiss embraced by nature's beauty. Golden fall hues surround them, illuminated by sunlight, creating a warm and picturesque scene that highlights the romance and splendor of the season.

Mark Creery

In Kayseri, Turkey, during an engagement photo session in Cappadocia, a couple stands at a ranch with many horses. The low sun creates a warm glow, while to the right, a cowboy rides a horse rearing up, adding a dynamic element to the scene.

Ufuk Sarisen

In Australia, an engaged couple sits on the steps of ancient ruins perched on the cliffs. Together, they watch the expansive blue sea below, with the powerful waves crashing against the rocks, creating a breathtaking and romantic scene.

Jianghui Feng

At Cascina Ranverso in Italy, during their pre-wedding session, an engaged couple shares a joyful embrace as he lifts her off the ground. They're set against a red brick wall draped in foliage with warm-toned fall leaves, for a romantic autumnal back

Alessandro Vargiu

In Châtel Guyon, a couple celebrates their love with a delicate floral crown, symbolizing the elegance and magic of their unique, upcoming wedding day.

Stephane Aumeunier

At Shelburne Farms Carriage House in Vermont, an engaged couple during their cold, snowy winter engagement shoot. They stand before the grand, red brick building, with the wintry backdrop adding a cozy, romantic charm to the scene.

Joanna Banks Morgan

A couple relaxing on a concrete bench in the park at Castello di Badia Berardenga, Tuscany, seated beneath a large tree amidst the tranquil surroundings.

Alessia Bruchi

In Saint Montan, Ardèche, France, a lovely couple strolls hand in hand through the cobblestone streets of a charming medieval village, exuding romance and timeless charm.

Camille Ravel

Pre-wedding portrait of an engaged couple standing in front of the Chicago skyline, with a flooded sidewalk.

Jacob Poehls

Romantic kiss between a couple on the pier jetty at Riva del Garda, surrounded by the serene waters of Lake Garda.

Luca Fabbian

In the urban streets of the Bund, Shanghai, China, a couple is captured in a tilted frame, she leans back her head while he kisses her neck. The interplay of light and shadow adds depth.

Seven Tao

A lit portrait of a couple embracing during their pre-wedding session in Eminönü, Istanbul, with a scenic window view of boats passing beneath the iconic bridge in the background.

Ufuk Sarisen

A couple standing hand-in-hand with serious expressions in front of a neatly trimmed hedge at Roger Williams Park, Providence, RI, USA, proudly showing off the engagement ring.

Kathryn Wallace Yeaton

A romantic kiss captured in front of the flowing curves and architectural lines of Budapest, where the couple's love becomes part of the city's artistic landscape.

Attila Ancsin

In Sardinia, Italy, a couple enjoys a romantic coastal stroll, walking hand in hand along the sunlit beach. The gentle ocean waves and warm sand create an idyllic setting for their intimate walk by the sea.

Paolo Blocar

During their engagement session at Rocky Mountain National Park, a couple shares a kiss at a scenic lookout point. The photographer's lighting highlights their embrace amidst soft clouds, with distant mountaintops visible through the haze.

Joe Pyle

At Collingwood, a couple sits on the water's edge during their engagement session, framed by a sunset over the shoreline. The serene setting enhances the romantic and timeless quality of this memorable scene.

Diego Moura

An engaged couple stands lovingly together at Natural Bridges State Beach in Santa Cruz, CA, perfectly silhouetted against the expansive blue sky and fluffy white clouds.

Chris Shum

Romantic engagement portrait on Yu Yuan Road in Shanghai, China, featuring a dip and kiss on her neck, with the couple in formal attire and the woman smiling at the camera.

Seven Tao

In Caminho de Pedras, Rio Grande do Sul, an engaged couple shares a tender kiss bathed in sunlight. Surrounded by round stone walls, the enchanting scene is filled with love and romance.

Rogerio Frota dos Santos

In Zaragoza, Spain, a tightly framed black-and-white shot captures an engaged couple's faces turned in opposite directions, embodying a yin-yang composition. The artistic contrast highlights their connection and harmony.

Pedro Volana

At Point Reyes National Seashore, Northern California, a couple cozies up in soft beach grasses, bathed in warm sunlight, creating an idyllic and romantic scene.

P.J. Oswald

A pre-wedding couple in Sevilla, Andalucía, Spain, stands under a vivid blue sky, dramatically silhouetted by the photographer's flash against the shade of a large urban art installation.

Pedro Volana

In West End, Atlanta, a couple shares a sweet moment as one playfully kisses the other on the cheek while relaxing on colorful chairs.

Cindy Brown

In Saint Montan, Ardèche, France, a future bride stands behind her fiancé, gazing at him with love. He looks back at her, in an image filled with affection and connection.

Camille Ravel

At Lac d'Azur in Landes, the engaged couple stands embraced amidst a sea of clouds. The dreamy atmosphere and misty backdrop create a romantic and poetic scene, symbolizing their love surrounded by natural beauty.

Lisa Baquerin

At the National Gallery of Art in the City of Washington, an engaged couple gracefully dances, holding ballet poses as they hold hands. Framed by large doors and shot from another room, the scene exudes elegance and romance.

Anastasiia Polyakov

At Rocks State Park, a couple stands at the edge of a cliff, silhouetted against a breathtaking sunset, capturing a portrait of love and adventure.

Scott Josuweit

In Curitiba, an engaged couple is captured indoors, each positioned by their own window in a hallway. The vertical framing highlights the natural light around them, creating an intimate and balanced portrait.

Eric Corbacho

Engagement session in Goreme, Nevsehir, Turkey, with the couple posing by a bustling carpet vendor booth, capturing the essence of Cappadocia’s culture and beauty.

Ufuk Sarisen

A couple at Lac d'Ayron, captured in a tight, black-and-white face-to-face shot. The image highlights their intimate connection and the depth of their smiles.

Benjamin Dupuy

In Dublin City Centre, a couple shares a kiss beneath a tall building in a black-and-white photo. Above them, a mural depicts a man praying, adding depth and intrigue to the scene.

Deirdre Rusk

Pre-wedding portrait of a couple at Missenden Abbey, with blooming bushes in the background.

Andy Sidders

In Milwaukee, Wisconsin, an engaged couple strolls together on the grass at sunset, exchanging jokes and laughter against the lively backdrop of the Milwaukee Public Market.

Taber Lacie

In their engagement session at Rocky Mountain National Park, the photographer's lighting beautifully highlights the couple's embrace. They stand amidst dramatic clouds, creating a captivating and atmospheric setting that adds depth to their romantic sessi

Joe Pyle

Engagement portrait of a couple sharing a sweet look at each other while lying on their backs on the grass at Stanford University, California.

Chris Shum

In Collingwood, a couple walks down the street at night, under the warm glow of lights on buildings. The warm lit clock tower face high above adds a historical charm to the romantic scene.

Diego Moura

In Chamonix, a couple playfully runs beneath snow-laden trees, laughter echoing through the crisp air, creating a romantic and joyful winter scene.

Tommy Loska

At Rothamsted Estate in Harpenden, Hertfordshire, a bride and groom share a joyful laugh in front of autumnal trees ablaze with warm orange tones. The country house grounds add an elegant backdrop to this heartwarming photo session.

Tori Deslauriers

In Khao Yai, Thailand, a black-and-white portrait captures an engaged couple in an open field. Surrounded by a perimeter of trees, the natural setting highlights the timeless elegance of their connection.

Chaiyasith Junjuerdee

Engagement portrait of a couple running and having fun on Herradura Beach, Marina Los Sueños, Puntarenas, Costa Rica, during their engagement session.

Mauricio Urena

In Crete Senesi, Tuscany, an engaged couple poses for a portrait under a perfectly clear blue sky. Three well-composed clouds hover above, adding a sense of balance and harmony to the frame.

Alessia Bruchi

In the Bund, Shanghai, China, a couple in sports attire embraces their common hobby against an urban skyline. Captured in a tilted black-and-white frame, the scene highlights their active lifestyle and the city's dynamic backdrop.

Seven Tao

In Port Washington, Wisconsin, an engaged couple shares a laugh as they embrace tightly. At the photographer's cue, he stands behind her, launching a loving kiss attack, evoking laughter and joy.

Taber Lacie

Engagement portrait of a couple sitting on the back seat of their red convertible Mustang car at the Costa Rica Marriott Hacienda Belén, Heredia.

Mauricio Urena

At Cady Falls in Stowe, Vermont, a lovely black-and-white image captures a future bride looking directly into the camera. Her gaze, framed by the elegant contrast of the monochrome tones, conveys a sense of timeless beauty and anticipation.

Joanna Banks Morgan

In London, UK, a couple is captured in a black-and-white portrait, arms lovingly wrapped around each other. Above them, muted foliage adds depth and layers to the image, in a serene and intimate atmosphere.

Chaiyasith Junjuerdee

In Kenosha, Wisconsin, an engaged couple shares a warm bear hug amid the beautiful fall colors of an urban residential setting. The pre-dusk light adds a gentle glow.

Taber Lacie

A couple enjoys a lovely winter walk in Chamonix, surrounded by snow-covered trees and breathtaking alpine scenery, creating a serene and romantic atmosphere.

Tommy Loska

In Colorado Springs, an engaged couple stands side by side, holding hands in front of a cascading waterfall.

Bonnie Sizer

In Beijing's Xicheng Civil Affairs Bureau Hutong, a couple shares a contemplative moment, embracing the seriousness and depth of their love without the need for laughter.

Jianghui Feng

In Saint Même d'en Bas, France, a black and white portrait captures lovers sharing a quiet moment, their emotions timelessly reflected against the picturesque rustic backdrop.

Chloe Perez

Attila Ancsin

In Breckenridge, Colorado, a couple snuggles amidst vibrant yellow aspen leaves. Captured in a vertical shot, their warm embrace and smiling faces create a cozy and inviting scene, highlighting the beauty of the autumn landscape.

Mark Creery

In Tihany, an engaged couple pauses on a walking trail nestled among pines to share a tender kiss. The scenic view around them adds to the beauty of their intimate picture session.

Attila Ancsin

A couple showcases the engagement ring following the proposal, with the serene Lake Garda and a vibrant sunset as the enchanting backdrop.

Luca Fabbian

In England, near Tower Bridge, an engaged couple walks hand in hand, facing each other with smiles. Their portrait is set against the backdrop of towering glass buildings, blending modern elegance with their timeless connection.

Gyula Lovaszi

A couple with their dog walking along a street in Somerville, MA, USA, with the neighborhood convenience store in the background.

Kathryn Wallace Yeaton

A couple cherishes a sweet pre-wedding moment in Sevilla, Andalucía, Spain, enveloped by the city's rich history, picturesque architecture, and lively cultural ambiance.

Rocio Sanchez

In Trieste, Italy, a couple embraces amid the glow of Christmas lights. The soft bokeh circles gently frame their warm hug and pleasant expressions, creating a festive and enchanting atmosphere.

Lisa De Domenico Pacor

At Caminho de Pedras in Bento Gonçalves, Rio Grande do Sul, an engaged couple stands before a charming two-story building with many windows. Lush green foliage in the foreground adds a touch of nature to the beautiful composition.

Rogerio Frota dos Santos

Near Tower Bridge in England, an engaged couple stands side by side, holding hands. They are set against a backdrop of a large rustic horizontal slat wooden wall, adding texture and charm to their portrait.

Gyula Lovaszi

In their engagement session at Rocky Mountain National Park, the photographer's on-location lighting beautifully accentuates the scene. The couple is before lush green pastures, majestic mountains, and dramatic clouds, in a stunning and romantic atm

Joe Pyle

At Horsetooth Reservoir in Fort Collins, Colorado, a couple stands on a rock, overlooking the expansive reservoir as the sun sets. The warm light illuminates their faces, in a serene and romantic atmosphere against the water backdrop.

Mark Creery

A couple stands face to face in silhouette within a stone doorway at Lac d'Ayron. The image captures an Old World charm, framed by the castle's ancient architecture, highlighting their romantic connection.

Benjamin Dupuy

A young couple races across a crosswalk in downtown Sacramento, CA, holding hands in a fun, fast-paced action shot that captures the excitement of the urban scene.

P.J. Oswald

In the heart of Chamonix’s winter wonderland, a couple is captured in an artistic pre-wedding session, surrounded by colorful bokeh lens effects that enhance the beauty of the snow-covered landscape.

Tommy Loska

A newly engaged couple enjoys a peaceful boat ride on the serene waters of Lake Como, Italy, soaking in the beauty of the landscape as they relax together.

Claire Wise

Engagement portrait of a couple at Horsetooth Reservoir, Fort Collins, Colorado, sharing a quiet embrace with the setting sun in the background.

Mark Creery

In the serene countryside of Crete Senesi, Tuscany, an engaged couple stands face to face near a row of trees. The backlit sun creates beautiful silhouettes, enhancing the romantic and timeless feel of their portrait in this picturesque rural setting.

Alessia Bruchi

At the Tower Bridge, an engaged couple stands hand in hand. The dynamic backdrop of a blurred train passing beneath the iconic bridge adds a sense of movement and modern energy to their portrait.

Gyula Lovaszi

Pre-wedding photo session in Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Turkey, with the couple walking hand-in-hand down an arid urban street, capturing the essence of the city’s historic charm.

Ufuk Sarisen

In Zaragoza, Spain, an engaged couple stands side by side, holding hands in front of a vibrant industrial art installation. The artwork's colors, reminiscent of the sun's warm hues, create a lively and dynamic backdrop for their portrait session.

Rocio Sanchez

In Budapest, along the Rakpart, an engaged couple pauses their walk at a high concrete wall, gazing out over the rail.

Attila Ancsin

At SoNo 1420, a destination craft distillery in South Norwalk, CT, an engaged couple enjoys a cozy portrait session on a couch in a dimly lit area. Sharing a beverage, they bask in the warm and intimate atmosphere of the distillery.

Thaddeus Ladzinski

A newly engaged couple shares a romantic kiss on Sand Beach in Stonington, Maine, with gentle waves lapping the shoreline under a clear blue sky.

Hailey Crabtree

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WPJA contest judges have been recognized by their industry peers, winning top awards as staff picture editors, staff photojournalists, and newsroom mentors while working for these and other leading publications and journalism organizations.