Black and white panoramic photograph showing multiple views of a classical building exterior with columns and architectural details at MFA.

When Ashvi reached out to me about her plans for their engagement session, I could not have been more thrilled! She told me that her and Sam’s first date was at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, and that it was a place that quickly became meaningful in their relationship. I instantly knew how special this session was going to be!


During the session, the MFA  quickly became one of my favorite spots for engagements in Boston.

Outside the Location

While I was scoping out the Museum of Fine Arts before meeting this beautiful couple, I wandered over to the other side of the building — and it was absolutely stunning. If you’ve ever visited the MFA and seen the two giant bronze baby heads out front, you know exactly the spot I’m talking about. I honestly could have spent an entire session right there. The architecture, the little lampposts, the quiet paths — it was an absolute dream. Close by is the Back Bay Fens, which is part of the Emerald Necklace (another favorite spot of mine — you can learn about it here). It’s such a pretty area if you want to mix in a few outdoor shots with a softer, more natural feel.


For a late-November engagement session, we lucked out with a bit of lingering fall foliage. A few trees were still holding onto their color, giving us a warm, textured backdrop for the outdoor portraits. Even with the chilly breeze (hand warmers fully deployed), the soft light made everything feel cozy and romantic. It’s one of the many reasons this part of the MFA works so well for couples who want both artful and natural elements in their engagement photos.

Couple walking together on a tree-lined autumn path with fallen leaves scattered on the ground.
A couple in formal attire shares a playful moment on the steps of a grand stone building with columns.
A couple poses together on white marble steps near classical columns during a romantic photoshoot.
Two people walk together on a leaf-covered path through a park during autumn, with ornate lampposts lining the way.
A couple in wedding attire shares a joyful moment outdoors on an autumn day with fallen leaves in the background.
A couple dances on the steps of a grand courthouse or government building with white stone columns.
A couple playfully dances together on a walkway covered in autumn leaves during a fall photoshoot.
Couple dancing playfully around a lamp post on an autumn day with fallen leaves scattered on the ground.
A wedding couple dances gracefully across a white marble colonnade outside a grand classical building.
A couple in formal wedding attire exchange rings during an outdoor ceremony.
A couple shares a romantic kiss in front of white columns during an autumn day with colorful fall foliage in the background.
A couple dances playfully around a lamp post on an autumn day with red maple trees and fallen leaves in the background.

Inside the Museum


When Ashvi first reached out, she shared that she felt a little nervous about the height difference between her and Sam. It’s such a common worry — and honestly, something that photographs so beautifully when you embrace it instead of trying to minimize it.


With Ashvi and Sam, the focus wasn’t on “fixing” anything. It was about highlighting their dynamic. Height differences naturally create shape and dimension in photos. A gentle lean-in, Sam wrapping Ashvi in close, walking hand in hand, or pausing mid-step on a staircase — those subtle shifts create balance without it ever feeling staged.

Inside the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, the architecture made it even easier. The staircases, varied floor levels, and open gallery spaces allowed us to play with perspective in a way that felt organic. Sometimes it was as simple as standing on different steps, or angling their bodies slightly instead of facing straight on.

Ashvi had also sent over a Pinterest board beforehand, which I always love. It gave me a sense of the mood she was drawn to — soft, refined, a little editorial but still romantic. I don’t recreate images exactly, but I use inspiration as a guide for feeling and tone. From there, everything becomes about the two of you — how you move together, how you laugh, how you naturally close the space between you.


The goal isn’t perfection. It’s capturing Ashvi and Sam in a way that feels honest, elevated, and entirely their own.

Couple shares a romantic moment among elegant white columns and coral-colored walls in an ornate architectural setting.
Couple in formal wedding attire sharing intimate moments on curved marble staircase in elegant venue.
A black and white photo shows two people in formal attire standing in a minimalist hallway corner.
Gallery visitors examine abstract artwork displayed on white walls in a modern exhibition space.
Close-up of hands exchanging wedding rings during a ceremony against a soft blurred background.
A couple stands in an elegant ballroom with ornate gold trim and mirrors during a formal event.
A couple shares a romantic dance in an elegant ballroom with ornate gold-framed mirrors and classical decor.
Two dancers perform a tango dance in an art gallery with red walls displaying classical paintings.
A series of art gallery scenes showing visitors viewing religious paintings and artwork displayed on white gallery walls.
Black and white architectural interior with white columns and arches creating a dramatic perspective along a hallway.
Two people laugh and smile together while sitting at a table in a minimalist white room.
A person wearing a white one-shoulder dress stands in an elegant indoor setting with wooden floors and warm lighting.

Best Times for Photos in the MFA


One of the beautiful things about shooting inside the MFA is that you’re not as dependent on golden hour the way you are outdoors. The museum has consistent, soft interior light throughout the day — especially in spaces like the Shapiro Family Courtyard and along the marble staircases.


That said, timing still matters.


I typically recommend weekday afternoons, right when the museum opens or a little before closing. These windows tend to feel quieter and more intimate, which allows us to move naturally without feeling rushed or crowded. Weekends can absolutely work, but they’re usually busier — especially in the more iconic areas.


If you’re pairing the session with outdoor portraits nearby (like along Huntington Ave or in the Fens), we can plan around sunset for a mix of museum elegance and golden-hour glow.


Overall, the best time is less about the sun — and more about the atmosphere. The goal is to choose a time when the space feels calm enough for you to slow down, explore, and let the moment unfold naturally.

If you’re searching for a Boston engagement photographer or indoor photoshoot location in Massachusetts, I’d love to help you plan something unique and personal. You can reach out, explore galleries, and plan your session here.