munich engagement photographer
for kind-hearted, english-speaking couples
HEY THERE LOVEBIRD!
Let me guess...
✨You're a kind-hearted human searching for a photographer who puts as much heart into giving you a joy-filled experience as delivering heart-felt photos to your inbox?
✨You'd rather feel like yourself in front of the lens than pose your way through an awkward, stiff photoshoot.
✨You've lived enough, traveled enough, or loved enough across cultures to want someone who actually gets that mix, not someone who's just guessing.
✨You want to plan the whole thing in English, without translation hiccups getting in the way of your vision.
Sound about right?
meet your engagement, proposal, anniversary, or "heck we're in munich, let's celebrate!" photographer
I'm Johanna
it's so lovely to meet you!
I'm Johanna, Mexican-American, based just up the road in Nuremberg! You've got a little bit of everything here in Munich - sprawling gardens, a fun mix between mega fashionistas and centuries-old tradition, beer gardens, neighbourhoods filled with adorable coffee shops, and grand architecture in the city center. There's a little bit of everything for everyone, and that's why it's such a special spot for an engagement.
I've been living in Europe for the past 9 years. Deeply passionate about life and humanity. Wishes I had a dog. Fascinated with belonging. To me, photography is all about genuine connection. It’s so much more than pretty photos, it’s about loving others, and allowing them the space to get silly, let loose - to give space to the wonderful humans that step in front of my camera to be completely seen and celebrated exactly as they are, and make a lil magic together while we're at it!
what it's actually like to work together
oh, you're from another part of the world too?
I have a soft spot for people who are creating a life somewhere a little different from where they started, because that's what I'm doing, too.
I'm Mexican-American, my partner of 9 years is German-Italian, and I've spent years living abroad myself. So I know how special (and sometimes a little wild!!) it can feel to build a home somewhere new, travel the world together, or find pieces of home in places you never expected.
That's a big part of why I love photographing international and intercultural couples.
When we're together, you don't need to know how to pose or worry about being “good at photos.” I'll guide you when you need it, let you be yourselves when you don't, and make sure the whole thing feels more like hanging out together than having your picture taken. If you don't believe me, click here - I bet you'll never guess who the camera-shy one was!!
Whether Munich is home, a new life chapter for you both, or somewhere you're lucky enough to be exploring together, when you look back on these photos I want you to think, "look at how happy we are together."
FAQ
How much does an engagement or proposal session cost?
Check the pricing page for current rates, or message me your date and location idea and I'll send a quote.
Can you help me plan a surprise proposal?
Yes! This is one of my favorite things to photograph and help support clients through. We'll plan everything in advance through a 30-minute preparation call, where I'll walk you through all the options - from location and time of day to the type of surprise you have in mind.
You'll also receive a questionnaire all about your partner (yes, even their love language and your champagne preference will be noted!), so we can create something together that feels authentic to your relationship.
What are the best locations for engagement photos in Munich?
You don't need to know Munich beforehand! I'll help you choose a location based on the kind of experience you're looking for, whether that's iconic Munich landmarks, quiet green spaces, charming streets, or something a little more off the beaten path. I also have a guide to my favorite Munich engagement photography locations to help you get a feel for the options before we decide together.
Should I book 1 or 2 hours of photography?
A 1-hour session is perfect if you want something quick and focused, especially if there's one particular Munich location you love and you'd simply like to document this season of your relationship.
If you have more flexibility, I recommend 2 hours. It gives us time to explore more than one location, move at a relaxed pace, and (most importantly!) lets you get comfortable in front of the camera. Most couples find that the first 15–20 minutes are when they're getting used to being photographed, so having that extra time allows the session to feel much more natural. :)
How long does it take to receive our photos?
You can typically expect your full gallery within 1 week of your session. During my busier seasons, it may take up to 2-3 weeks. If you have a specific deadline in mind, just ask! I'm always happy to give you a more accurate estimate based on my current schedule.
What happens if the weather is unfavorable on the day of an outdoor shoot?
We'll stay in touch throughout the planning process and keep an eye on the forecast together. I'm usually able to be flexible if the forecast is looking particularly rough and we need to adjust our plans.
If we've already started our session and the weather takes a turn, we'll find a solution! We can duck into a beautiful covered or indoor location, take a little break and wait for the weather to pass, or simply embrace it if it's something we can work with. Either way, you won't be left wondering what to do, we'll figure it out together.
When should we book an engagement session - right after getting engaged, or closer to the wedding?
Both work. Booking soon after the engagement captures that early, still-giddy energy and gives you save-the-date-ready photos fast. Booking closer to the wedding (3–6 months out) gives you fresh images for invitations and a chance to test out hair, makeup, or an outfit ahead of the big day.
can you help if we're uncomfortable in front of the camera?
Yes!! And honestly, you're in very good company. You absolutely do not need to know how to pose or what to do with your hands - that's my job! I'll give you prompts and little things to do together so you're not just standing there wondering what you're supposed to do.
Usually, once we've gotten through the first few minutes, you'll forget the camera is even there. My goal is for you to have a fun time together and for the photos to feel like you. The best compliment I've ever received is "wow, I was so relaxed that I forgot we were on a photoshoot!"
How do we start the booking process?
Once you've decided you'd like to work together, simply reach out through my contact form with your preferred date and a little bit about what you're planning! I'll check my availability and send over everything you need to officially book your session. Once your date is secured, we'll start planning all the fun details together.
munich engagement locations
Nymphenburg Palace gardens
Beauty: 10/10
It's incredibly beautiful. It has grand palace architecture, old English statues, manicured lawns, beautiful gardens... it really feels like you've stepped into a fairytale!!
Intimacy: 8/10
Because Nymphenburg Palace sits within such a massive park and garden, there's plenty of space to spread out. Even when it's busy, it rarely feels like you're surrounded by people, and it's easy to find little moments where it feels like it's just the two of you.
Access to Location: 8/10
Nymphenburg Palace is easy to get to, but it is a little outside of Munich's city center. I actually think that's part of the reason the gardens never feel overwhelmingly crowded! You'll need to take a tram for about 15–20 minutes from the main train station, followed by a short walk to the palace.
Ease of photographer logistics: 10/10
There are plenty of people around taking photos, so having a camera out won't be unusual at all. The grounds are also relatively easy to navigate, and I can easily guide you to the prettiest spots and help you know exactly where to stand so we get those gorgeous backgrounds without overthinking it.
odeonsplatz
Beauty: 9.5/10
It's soo Munich. The beautiful yellow Theatinerkirche, grand buildings, statues, and the little bit of greenery around the square make it feel incredibly elegant and quintessentially Munich. Half a point deducted because it can get so busy!
Intimacy: 5/10
This is definitely a busy city-center location, so it won't have the same private, romantic feeling as Nymphenburg. There will almost always be people around, especially during the day. That said, there are little corners and quieter spots around the square where we can still create moments that feel intimate.
Access to Location: 10/10
You really can't beat the location. Odeonsplatz is right in the heart of Munich and is incredibly easy to reach by U-Bahn, with the Odeonsplatz station directly underneath the square. It's also within easy walking distance of the Residenz, Hofgarten, and other beautiful central Munich locations, which makes it a great starting point if you want a variety of city photos.
Ease of photographer logistics:10/10
There are plenty of people taking photos around Odeonsplatz, so having a camera out won't attract much attention. The biggest challenge is simply navigating the crowds, but there are lots of beautiful backdrops packed into a relatively small area, so I can easily guide you around and find the prettiest spots.
hofgarten
Beauty: 9.5/10
I have to knock off half a point because the Hofgarten can get pretty busy depending on the day, but it's absolutely stunning!! The gardens are filled with gorgeous flowers, beautiful arched pathways around the edges, and a little gazebo in the center that is honestly just dreamy.
Intimacy: 5/10
This is definitely the Hofgarten's weak spot. It can get busy, and it can be tricky to find a spot without people wandering through the background of your photos. If having a completely private-feeling moment is important to you, there are quieter locations I'd recommend instead.
Access to Location: 10/10
Insane location. t's smack dab in the center of Munich! It's incredibly easy to get to and is also within walking distance of several other beautiful spots, like Odeonsplatz, so it's a great option if you want to combine your proposal or engagement with some exploring around the city.
Ease of photographer logistics: 10/10
This one is so easy! There are always tourists around taking photos, so I can blend right in as just another person with a camera while secretly documenting your special moment. There are also distinct buildings and landmarks that make it really easy for me to tell you exactly where to stand beforehand.
"we feel so lucky to have found Johanna. She is sunshine in human form"
miranda & hart - munich
My husband and I searched for a photographer to capture our elopement abroad in Munich, and we feel so lucky to have found Johanna. She is sunshine in human form — kind, excited, sweet, and made the entire process enjoyable from the very first inquiry to her thoughtful check-ins after we received our photos.
We were a little nervous about being photographed (first time in a professional couples shoot), but Johanna made us feel so natural and comfortable, it was like spending the day with an old friend. She captured so many beautiful memories for us, blending candid moments with the romance we had envisioned. Her attention to detail, creativity, and warmth exceeded all of our hopes. The final photos are stunning!
Her work is constantly complemented by our loved ones and we couldn’t be happier with the memories she captured for us. We will treasure these photos forever and are so grateful to Johanna for making our special day even more magical. I would recommend her to anyone, and we will reach out to her to capture us again next time we are in Germany. I’d give her 100 stars ✨
