How do we talk about what we want without comparing our relationship to our friends'?

My girlfriend showed me a friend's weekend photos and said, "They still make an effort for each other." We'd spent Saturday clearing out the shed and eating takeaway on the floor. I had thought it was a surprisingly good day.

She says she misses us dressing up and going somewhere that feels special. That part I understand. What stung was the comparison, as if another couple's photographs were evidence that we had stopped caring. I replied that the same friends never seemed to enjoy staying home, which wasn't fair either.

I'd like to hear what she wants without defending our relationship against theirs. I also need to admit that a day I loved might not have met her wish for romance. Where would you restart this conversation? The shed is tidy, but neither of us feels particularly appreciated.