The Ultimate Guide to Your Engagement Session
Congratulations, you are engaged! The ring is sparkling, the celebrations are underway, and now it’s time to start thinking about one of the most fun parts of the wedding planning process: your engagement session!
If the thought of being in front of the camera makes you a little nervous, you are not alone. Most couples feel the same way! But think of this less as a formal photoshoot and more as a date night where you get to celebrate this incredible season of your life. My goal is always to capture the authentic you, the laughter, the stolen glances, the little moments that tell your unique story.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to prepare for a session that is fun, stress-free, and results in photos you will absolutely adore.
Why an Engagement Session is More Than Just Photos
Before we dive into the "how," let's talk about the "why." An engagement session is incredibly valuable for a few key reasons:
It’s Our Practice Run: This is our chance to get to know each other before your wedding day. You’ll learn how I direct, and I’ll learn how you interact as a couple. By the wedding day, you'll be pros, making those formal portraits feel natural and effortless.
Celebrate Your Story: Your love story didn't start at the altar. This session is a beautiful way to document this chapter of your journey together.
Personalized Art & Keepsakes: These photos are perfect for your save-the-dates, wedding website, guest book, or simply framing in your home. It’s a chance to create art that is purely you.
Step 1: Choosing the Perfect Location
The location sets the tone for your entire session. The best locations are ones that feel meaningful and authentic to you as a couple.
Meaningful to You: Think about where your story unfolded. Where was your first date? Where did you get engaged? Do you love hiking together, grabbing coffee at a specific café, or strolling through a particular museum?
Consider the Vibe: Do you want urban and modern (city streets, graffiti walls), natural and serene (a forest, a beach at sunset), or rustic and romantic (a vineyard, an open field)?
Trust Your Photographer: We’ve shot in countless locations and can make recommendations based on the light, time of year, and the feeling you want to achieve. Don’t be afraid to ask for our ideas!
Step 2: Timing is Everything
The when is just as important as the where.
Golden Hour: This is the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset. The light is soft, warm, flattering, and magical. It’s hands-down the most beautiful time of day to shoot and is highly recommended.
Consider the Season: Each season offers something unique, the vibrant colors of fall, the fresh blooms of spring, the cozy vibes of winter. Think about what backdrops you love most.
Step 3: The Ultimate "What to Wear" Guide
This is the question I get asked the most! The key is to be yourselves, but the most polished versions of yourselves.
Coordinate, Don't Match: Avoid being too matchy-matchy (think both wearing identical white shirts and jeans). Instead, choose a color palette with 2-3 complementary colors and have each of you wear pieces from that palette. Think earthy tones, soft pastels, or classic neutrals.
Choose Comfort: If you’re not comfortable, it will show in the photos. Wear clothes that fit well and make you feel confident. If you love wearing a flowing dress, go for it! If you feel best in a well-fitted jacket and jeans, rock it.
Add Layers & Accessories: Layers like jackets, scarves, or hats add visual interest and give you options for different looks throughout the session. Statement jewelry or a fun pair of boots can add personality.
Pro Tip: Bring a second outfit! This allows you to get two distinct looks,one more formal and one more casual. It also gives you a chance to change if there’s an unexpected spill.
Step 4: Hair, Makeup, and Details
Professional Hair & Makeup (HMU): Consider treating yourself to a professional HMU. It not only makes you look and feel incredible but also photographs beautifully. This is a great trial run for your wedding day artist!
Grooming Matters: Guys, a fresh haircut a week before and a clean shave (or a neat trim of your beard) right before the session makes a big difference.
The Ring: Give that beautiful engagement ring a quick clean so it sparkles under the sun!
Step 5: Relax and Trust the Process
This is the most important step. My job is to guide you.
We’ll Direct You: I will never leave you wondering what to do. I’ll give you gentle prompts and activities, like walking hand-in-hand, whispering a secret to each other, or even just sharing a slow dance, to create genuine moments and interactions.
Focus on Each Other: The best photos happen when you forget I’m even there. Talk to each other, laugh, be silly. Look at your partner like you did on your first date. The connection between you two is what we’re here to capture.
It’s a Date!: Make a night of it! Plan a dinner or drinks after your session. You’ll be all dressed up and feeling great, it’s the perfect excuse for a celebration.
Your Engagement Session Checklist:
Book your session (ideally 2-3 months before you need the photos for invites)
Scout and finalize your location(s) with your photographer
Plan your outfits (and try them on together!)
Schedule hair/makeup trials or appointments
Get your ring cleaned
Pack a bag: outfits, shoes, touch-up makeup, water, and a blanket to sit on if needed
Get a good night's sleep
Show up, take a deep breath, and get ready to have fun!
I am so excited to work with you and create images that you will treasure for a lifetime. This is your story, let’s tell it beautifully.
