Engagement sessions are always a favorite, but there’s something especially beautiful about photographing on a quiet campus. CNU engagement photos are timeless, especially in late summer when golden hour light spills across the arches of the Ferguson Center for the Arts. With the campus quiet before classes began, this couple had space to laugh, relax, and enjoy portraits before their upcoming wedding at Kiln Creek.

As we explored Christopher Newport University, we made the most of the variety CNU offers — from clean lines and brick walkways to grand arches and soft natural light. The deserted campus gave us freedom to move, try poses, and create portraits that felt relaxed and fun.

Why CNU Engagement Photos Are a Great Choice

Many couples choose Christopher Newport University for engagement portraits because of its stunning architecture and calm, open spaces. The arches in front of the Ferguson Center are iconic, while the tree-lined walkways create softer, romantic images. Learn more about CNU’s campus here.

Posing Tips for Engagement Photos

One of my favorite parts of engagement sessions is guiding couples through posing. Many feel nervous at first, but rotating through different ideas keeps the session fun, flattering, and authentic. At this session we included:

• Her turned toward him for a soft, intimate connection.
• Both turned toward each other for a timeless portrait.
• Walking photos hand in hand, looking into each other’s eyes.
• A playful bear hug from behind.
• Her wrapping around him with laughter, like an accessory he never wants to lose.
• A joyful lift that captured movement and lightheartedness.
• Arms around each other like dancing in the golden hour glow.

Rotating poses not only gives variety to a gallery but also helps couples relax and feel confident in front of the camera. By the end of our session, they were laughing, comfortable, and completely themselves — exactly what CNU engagement photos should be.

Looking Ahead

This couple’s wedding at Kiln Creek is just around the corner, and I can’t wait to celebrate with them again soon. Their engagement session at Christopher Newport University was the perfect way to capture this season of anticipation and joy.

Wrapping Up

Engagement sessions are about more than photos — they’re about celebrating the season you’re in and preparing for the big day ahead. If you’re planning your own engagement, CNU engagement photos offer both architectural beauty and golden hour romance.

If you’re looking for an engagement or wedding photographer in Virginia, I’d love to connect. Reach out here and let’s create joyful, timeless portraits together.