Hi, I’m Courtney — a wedding photographer based in Columbia, SC, specializing in heartfelt, intentional imagery for couples who want to feel their day, not just pose for it. One of the most common questions I hear is:
“What’s the best season for engagement photos in Columbia, SC?”
Here’s the truth: the best season depends on your personality, your wedding plans, and how you want your photos to feel. But it also comes down to one very practical detail — when you’ll need the photos ready.
If you’re planning to use your engagement photos for save-the-dates, your wedding website, or invitations, it’s smart to schedule your session at least 6–8 months before your wedding. This gives time for editing, design, and mailing.
And if you’re planning a fall wedding? You might love the visual balance of spring engagement photos — soft blooms, pastel tones, and a completely different seasonal vibe.
Below, I’ve broken down what each season in Columbia offers — so you can confidently choose the one that matches your timeline, vision, and style.
Spring: Fresh, Romantic, and Full of Bloom
Spring in Columbia is a dream — mild temps, blooming florals, and golden evening light.
Best for:
Couples who love romantic, light-filled photos and soft color palettes.
Best months:
Late March through May
Why couples love it:
- Pastel florals and dreamy backdrops
- Comfortable weather
- Great for fall/winter wedding save-the-dates
Summer: Golden, Bold, and Full of Energy
Summer sessions are bright, warm, and filled with golden light — especially around sunset.
Best for:
Couples who love natural landscapes, fields, or golden-hour glows.
Best months:
Early June or late August (July is often very hot)
Keep in mind:
Schedule early morning or golden hour sessions for comfort
Fall: Warm, Moody, and Timeless
Fall is one of Columbia’s most popular engagement seasons — and for good reason.
Best for:
Couples who love rich tones, cozy vibes, and a little bit of moodiness.
Best months:
Mid-October to early November
Why it’s a favorite:
- Warm, earthy color palette
- Layered outfits photograph beautifully
Winter: Quiet, Cozy, and Intimate
Don’t sleep on winter! Columbia winters are mild, and sessions can feel extra peaceful without the heat or crowds.
Best for:
Minimal, cozy, or unexpected vibes
Best months:
December–February
Ideas:
- Layered neutral outfits
- Soft evening light and candlelit locations
Picking the Right Season for You
When deciding on the best season for engagement photos in Columbia, SC, ask yourself:
- When do we need the photos ready by?
(Think: save-the-dates, wedding website, prints) - What kind of feel do we want in the photos?
(Light + floral? Earthy and cozy? Golden and glowy?) - Do we want the same vibe as our wedding or something different?
(A different season can bring fresh contrast to your overall wedding story.)
No matter the season, your session will be guided, relaxed, and true to you. Because that’s when the real magic happens.
Ready to Plan Your Engagement Photos?
If you’re unsure which season is the best fit for your engagement photos in Columbia, SC, I’d love to help. From choosing a location to planning around your timeline, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
Courtney did an amazing job and we couldn’t be more thankful for all she did to make this process so easy on us. So many of our guests praised her and her second photographer the day of the wedding.
- Jessica and Tyler
"So many of our guests praised her"
"Courtney makes taking photos so much fun and makes everyone feel comfortable. Absolutely love the results!"
- Stephanie P.
"I can't say enough positive things!"
"The photos are stunning, and we will cherish them forever."
- Emily and Travis
"We couldn't be happier with our photos!"
