Today we’re sharing Jackie and Reid’s Richmond Virginia Museum of Fine Arts Engagement session, and it honestly felt like the official kickoff to spring sessions for us. We’ve photographed newborn sessions and a few other things throughout the winter, but this was the first shoot where it truly felt like the season had begun.

The weather was warm, the sun was out, and apparently the entire population of Richmond had the exact same idea about where to spend the day.

And honestly… we can’t blame them.

Why the VMFA Is One of the Best Engagement Session Locations in Richmond

Jackie and Reid chose the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) for their engagement session, and we absolutely loved that choice.

They’re both originally from Richmond, and the VMFA is one of those places that feels completely quintessential to the city. It’s beautiful, it’s iconic, and it has so many different spots that photograph well. The open lawn, the architecture, the sculpture garden.. it all just works.

And apparently it works for everyone else in Richmond too.

When we arrived, the lawn was packed with people enjoying the sunshine. Blankets everywhere. Groups of friends. Families. It felt like the entire city had collectively decided that this was the place to be that afternoon.

But one of the best things about the VMFA is that the property is huge. Even when it’s busy, there are still quiet corners where you can create beautiful images.

Richmond Virginia Museum of Fine Arts Engagement Front Lawn

We started the session on the front lawn of the museum, which had almost no one around.

For some reason people tend to gather in the main courtyard area, but the front side of the building has gorgeous light, open grass, and a beautiful view of the museum architecture. It’s one of our favorite little spots.

When we told Jackie and Reid we were starting there, you could almost see the relief on their faces. Like most couples, they both mentioned at the beginning that they weren’t totally sure how they’d feel about having photos taken.

Which is something we hear all the time.

And then within about five minutes… they were completely natural in front of the camera.

Seriously. Instant models.

They were relaxed, laughing, and just really easy together, which always makes for the best engagement sessions.

Outfit Inspiration (And a Moment for the Bow)

Their outfits also deserve a moment.

Jackie wore a short dress with the most amazing bow, and Reid wore a blazer that made the whole look feel elevated but still relaxed. It fit the VMFA setting perfectly.

And we have to talk about the bow for a second.

Bows are underrated. That’s our official stance.

Jackie even told us she wasn’t normally a “bow person,” but it gave such a subtle bridal vibe in the best way. It was one of those small styling choices that photographed beautifully and added just enough personality to the outfit.

Exploring Richmond’s Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

After the first half of the session, Jackie and Reid changed outfits and we moved to the back side of the museum near the Pauley Center area.

Once again.. almost no people.

It’s one of the things we love most about photographing engagement sessions at the VMFA. Even on a busy day, there are so many little pockets around the property that still feel quiet and private.

And because the architecture and landscaping are so consistent throughout the grounds, it still feels very much like you’re at the VMFA the entire time.

A Weekend Full of Richmond Celebrations

Another fun part of this session was that Jackie and Reid had actually traveled back to Richmond for the weekend.

Her bridal shower was the very next day at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, which is another one of our favorite spots in the area. So they basically planned a weekend celebrating some of the best places Richmond has to offer.

We love when couples do that.

It turns engagement photos into more of an experience, something you’re already excited about instead of just another thing on the wedding checklist.

Counting Down to Their Richmond Wedding

Jackie and Reid were such a joy to photograph. Easygoing, stylish, and completely comfortable just being themselves together.

Sessions like this are exactly why we love engagement photography so much. It’s a chance to slow down, explore a beautiful place, and just have fun before the pace of the wedding day arrives.

For now, enjoy a few of our many favorites from their VMFA engagement session in Richmond, Virginia.

And then check back in a couple months… because these two are getting married soon, and we cannot wait to photograph their wedding day.

see other Richmond engagement sessions

Here – Capitol Building Engagement

and Here – Maymont Park Engagement