Newfields Engagement Photography | Sally & Michael’s Romantic Spring Session
- Cody Bailey
- May 7
- 4 min read
There’s just something about springtime at Newfields in Indianapolis that feels like magic. With blooming flowers, elegant architecture, and dreamy light around every corner, it’s no surprise that this location has become one of our favorite spots for engagement sessions.
For Sally & Michael, Newfields wasn’t just a picturesque backdrop—it was the perfect setting to capture their joyful connection before their August wedding at Ritz Charles in Carmel, Indiana.
Why You Should Choose Newfields for Your Engagement Session
If you’re looking for a blend of elegance, natural beauty, and timeless charm, Newfields engagement photography delivers it all. The grounds offer a diverse mix of gardens, architecture, and seasonal color. Every visit feels a little different depending on the time of year—and in April, the golden hour light paired with spring blooms creates a romantic glow that’s impossible to resist.
Newfields offers:
Classic architecture at the historic Lilly House
Lush gardens and fountains throughout the property
A stunning greenhouse for soft, filtered light
Seasonal surprises like flowering trees and orchard blooms
It’s one of the most versatile and visually rich locations in Indianapolis, perfect for couples who want a session that feels elevated but approachable.
Our Favorite Photo Spots at Newfields
Over the years, we’ve discovered some signature spots that never disappoint. For Sally & Michael’s session, we visited a few of our go-to locations and even added a new favorite to the mix.
✨ The Lilly House & Fountain Lawn – A must-visit! This classic spot offers elegant steps, limestone architecture, and a wide lawn with the fountain in the distance.
🌿 The Greenhouse – Ideal for early spring when blooms are just starting to show outside, the greenhouse provides soft light and a touch of color.
🌸 The Orchard – A hidden gem! The flowering trees in this space offer a whimsical and romantic look during peak bloom season.
🌷 The Gardens – Whether we’re in front of the blooming peonies or under a canopy of trees, these garden paths offer variety and texture in every frame.
How to Prepare for Your Engagement Photos at Newfields
Planning ahead ensures you’ll get the most out of your Newfields engagement session. Here's what we recommend to all our couples:
✅ We handle the permit: A $50 photography permit is required for sessions at Newfields. We’ll take care of the reservation and fee so you don’t have to worry.
⏰ Arrive 10–15 minutes early: This gives us time to settle in, review your outfits, and get started right on time.
👜 Bring a small bag: You may want to switch shoes or bring personal items (like touch-up makeup or water), so having a bag is helpful.
⏳ Plan for 2 hours: We’ll explore multiple areas of the grounds and occasionally need to wait for the best lighting or a spot to open up.
💑 Treat the session like a date night: You’re dressed up, you’re in love, and this is a celebration—enjoy it! Plan a dinner or dessert outing afterward.
What to Wear for Your Newfields Engagement Session
We always tell couples: dress like you're going to a wedding.
For Newfields, that means leaning into elevated, semi-formal looks:
For her: Flowy dresses, heels or dressy flats, soft curls, and delicate jewelry photograph beautifully in this setting.
For him: A suit or dress pants with a blazer and tie elevates the look and balances the natural elegance of the grounds.
When it comes to color palettes:
Stick with neutrals, pastels, or jewel tones—these all complement the earthy tones and blooming backgrounds.
Avoid logos, busy prints, or matching too closely with each other. Coordination is key, not duplication.
For more inspiration and style tips, visit our engagement session style guide.
Sally & Michael’s Experience: Laughter, Light, and Love
When Sally & Michael arrived for their spring session, they were a little nervous—like many couples are—about how they’d look and feel in front of the camera. But from the very first laugh, their chemistry took over.
“We were nervous about feeling / seeming natural in front of the camera,” they shared. “But it was helpful to get pointers on how to walk, place hands, etc. and feel that we could focus on each other and that someone else was taking care of making sure that the photos came out well.”
Their session flowed beautifully from one location to the next. Whether wrapped in a hug under the blooming trees or walking hand-in-hand down the steps of the Lilly House, they radiated ease and connection.
And yes—despite what they initially thought, these two were totally naturals in front of the lens.
Relax and Trust Your Photographer: Advice from the Couple
One of the most helpful takeaways from Sally & Michael’s session was their advice for future couples:
“Relax and smile at each other, and trust your photographer!”
They embraced the process, let go of nerves, and leaned into each other—which is exactly what an engagement session is about. It’s less about posing and more about presence. Let the laughter happen. Let the moments unfold. That’s where the magic lives.
Engagement Photography Packages and Planning Tips
We know every couple is different, and your engagement session should reflect that. Whether you're planning a casual shoot downtown or a romantic evening at Newfields, we’ll
guide you every step of the way.
Explore your options here:
Ready to Plan Your Newfields Engagement Session?
Whether you're newly engaged or already planning your big day, Newfields engagement photography offers the perfect balance of beauty and emotion. Sally & Michael’s session is proof that even if you're nervous, the right location—and the right photographer—can help you feel confident, connected, and totally in love.
Let’s plan your own unforgettable session at Newfields. Reach out today—we’d love to help you bring your vision to life.
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