There are some engagement sessions that just feel effortlessly “Richmond,” and Stephanie and Joe’s Richmond Engagement Session at Maymont & VMFA was exactly that. Between the historic pathways of Maymont and the clean, timeless architecture of Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, this session felt like the perfect blend of romantic, elegant, and classic Richmond charm.

As Richmond engagement photographers, we photograph sessions at both of these locations often, but getting to combine them into one evening was such a fun change of pace. While people sometimes think Maymont and the VMFA offer similar vibes, they really each bring something completely different to a session. Maymont has that soft, natural, garden feel with winding paths and historic scenery, while the VMFA brings in modern architecture, clean lines, and an elevated city feel that photographs beautifully.

And somehow, despite both locations usually being packed, we had them almost completely to ourselves.

A Rainy Richmond Day That Turned Into the Perfect Evening

The funny thing is.. this session almost didn’t happen.

We originally had to reschedule because of rain, and then on the day of the reschedule, it poured basically the entire day. We kept watching the forecast and checking radar updates.

Then, about an hour before the session, the sun suddenly came out.

The weather made the light change constantly throughout the evening, but honestly, Stephanie and Joe made our job so easy that none of it mattered.

They are one of those couples that naturally fall into each other. No awkwardness. No forcing poses. Just comfortable, effortless connection from the very beginning. Engagement sessions are often about helping couples relax in front of the camera, but these two already felt completely at home together.

The Perfect Engagement Session Outfits for Maymont & VMFA

Stephanie absolutely nailed her outfit choices for both locations.

For Maymont, she wore a dress with a subtle bird pattern that fit the gardens and park setting perfectly. It worked so naturally with the scenery while still feeling elevated and intentional.

Then for the VMFA portion of the session, she changed into a sleek, silky high-neck dress that looked like it was made specifically for the museum setting. It was simple, elegant, and timeless.. exactly the kind of look that photographs beautifully against the architecture and clean lines of the VMFA.

Why We Loved Photographing Stephanie & Joe

One of our favorite things about this session was how intentional Stephanie was during the planning process. At the beginning of every engagement session, we usually ask couples if they chose a location for a specific reason or if they want us to completely guide everything creatively.

Stephanie had done her research in the best possible way.

She trusted us fully, but she had also looked through previous sessions we photographed at both locations and pointed out areas she especially loved. That combination is perfect as photographers because it gives us insight into what resonates most with our couples while still allowing room for spontaneity and creativity during the session.

It made us even more excited for their wedding day because you can already tell she has such a thoughtful vision for everything.

And beyond all of that, they were simply so fun to spend the evening with. Easygoing, kind, joyful, and completely natural together.

We truly cannot wait to photograph their wedding later this year.

Planning a Richmond Engagement Session?

If you’re searching for the perfect Richmond engagement session locations, Maymont and the VMFA are two of our all-time favorites for couples wanting a timeless and classic Richmond feel. Whether you love gardens and historic architecture or clean city-inspired backdrops, both locations photograph beautifully year-round.

Stephanie and Joe, we loved every second of this session and cannot wait to celebrate with you both again in August.

For now, enjoy a few of our favorites from this Richmond Engagement Session at Maymont & VMFA.

See more Richmond engagement shoots here.