Where to Take Engagement Photos at Newfields | Expert Tips from an Indianapolis Engagement Photographer
- Cody Bailey
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read


There are few places in Indianapolis as timeless and romantic as Newfields, especially at sunset. For Sam & Ryan, it was the perfect setting to kick off their wedding journey. With a spring date, golden light, and a wardrobe that looked straight out of a formal garden party, this session brought together everything we love about engagement photography in one of the most iconic locations in the city.
Meet the Couple: Sam & Ryan

Sam and Ryan are planning their April 25th, 2026 wedding at The Garment Factory in Franklin, and their love story is all about genuine connection and laid-back energy. They describe themselves as "not photo people," and admitted before our session that they were a little nervous about how it would go:
"We had never gotten professional photos taken before, so we were both nervous about looking awkward and not knowing what to do with our hands."
But by the end of the session, their confidence soared:
"After the session, that definitely changed, we are both a lot more comfortable in front of the camera."

Why Newfields is One of the Best Places for Engagement Photos in Indianapolis

If you're recently engaged and looking for the perfect backdrop, Newfields (home of the Indianapolis Museum of Art) offers unmatched variety — formal gardens, architectural beauty, and golden-hour magic. Some of our favorite stops for Sam & Ryan’s session included:
The Lilly House, with its clean lines and timeless charm
The Orchard, where the soft spring foliage added a pop of color
The fountain and formal gardens, perfect for those elegant poses
Newfields requires a photography permit ($50), and sessions are best scheduled Thursday–Saturday from 6–8pm, with golden hour around 7:30 in spring.

What to Wear for Your Engagement Photos at Newfields

One of the reasons Sam & Ryan’s session photographed so beautifully was how well they coordinated their outfits with the setting. If you’re planning your own session at Newfields, consider dressing as if you’re attending a wedding or a garden party.
Tips for Your Outfit:
Formal or semi-formal attire works best (think dresses, suits, heels, or polished loafers)
Stick to neutral, pastel, or floral tones to complement the natural surroundings
Avoid logos or loud patterns
Bring a backup pair of walking shoes for exploring the grounds
Need more inspiration on what to wear for your Newfields engagement session? Check out these expert guides:
Overcoming Nerves in Front of the Camera

Feeling nervous about professional photos is so normal — but that doesn’t mean you need to stay that way. One of the most rewarding parts of working with Sam & Ryan was watching them ease into the process and actually have fun.
"Cody did a great job of directing us throughout the session. He took the time before we got started to show us basic poses and what to do with our hands. He encouraged us to have fun with the photos. We had a blast and Cody definitely helped us feel less awkward!"

Whether you're "not photo people" or just unsure of how to pose, choosing a photographer who makes you feel relaxed and confident is everything.
Engagement Session Pro Tips from Sam & Ryan
We asked Sam & Ryan what advice they’d give other couples prepping for their session:
"Do not stress before the session! Have fun during the pictures!"

The more you trust your photographer, the more you’ll enjoy the experience. Your session is a chance to connect with your partner, laugh a little, and get comfortable in front of the camera before the wedding day.
Why You Should Do Your Engagement Session Before the Wedding

Engagement sessions aren’t just about the photos (although you’ll love those too!) — they’re about building trust and chemistry with your photographer. Here’s why that matters:
You’ll get comfortable taking direction and posing
Your photographer will learn what angles, expressions, and vibes work best for you
You'll build a relationship before the big day, which makes your wedding photos go even smoother

Final Thoughts from the Couple
"Our experience working with Rogue Images Photography for our engagement session was amazing! We are so happy with how the photos turned out and had so much fun during the session. Cody is a true professional and made us feel comfortable the whole time. We can't wait to work with Rogue again for our wedding photos!"

Quick Tips Box: Engagement Sessions at Newfields
Permit Required: Yes – $50 photography fee
Best Time to Shoot: 6–8pm (Thurs–Sat)
Top Locations: Lilly House, Orchard, Fountain, Gardens
What to Wear: Dress like you're attending a wedding or garden party
What to Bring: Walking shoes, makeup touch-up kit, water
Extra Tip: Make it a date night — you’re already dressed up!

Ready to Book Your Newfields Engagement Session?
If you’re dreaming of a session that’s timeless, elegant, and completely you, let’s make it happen. Newfields is one of our most popular locations for a reason — and your love story deserves a beautiful beginning.
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