Engagement Photoshoot - Elvaston Castle & Country Park - Derbyshire
I met up with Kirsty and Chris, along with their two dogs, at Elvaston Castle & Country Park for their engagement photoshoot on a fine summer afternoon. I was beyond excited—not just to photograph the couple, but also their dogs! One of their dogs turned out to be a Newfoundland, and the other a Bernese Mountain Dog, a breed I had never photographed before. I absolutely love it when couples ask if they can bring their dogs along; it makes the session feel so relaxed and personal.
Elvaston Castle is one of my all-time favourite locations for engagement shoots. It offers a variety of spots to create stunning images—woodland paths, stone buildings, ornate gardens, and the lake with its resident ducks and geese. The castle has a romantic yet contemporary feel, and I could easily spend hours exploring every corner for the perfect shot.
Kirsty and Chris had already mentioned they weren’t the romantic type and that posing for photos was not their thing. My main goal was to make them comfortable and let them be themselves. With the help of their dogs, we captured lots of genuine moments, giggles and relaxed interactions. It was a wonderful way to get to know each other ahead of their wedding day—a time I cherish with my couples, as it helps break down barriers and makes them feel more confident in front of the camera.
Couple shoots like this are perfect for anyone who feels awkward about having their photo taken. They provide a relaxed environment where you can just be yourselves, have fun, and let natural moments unfold. And if your session includes dogs or even horses that’s always a bonus!
I’m really looking forward to sharing Chris and Kirsty’s wedding at Donington Park Farmhouse very soon.
If you’d like to have a relaxed engagement shoot with your partner (and pets!), where the focus is on your personalities rather than stiff posing, get in touch with me here to plan your own session.
