The Ultimate Guide to Preparing for Your Engagement Session

Your engagement session is more than just a warm-up for the big day—it’s a chance to slow down, have fun, and capture the two of you exactly as you are. No pressure, no stiff poses, just real moments that reflect your connection. Whether you’re feeling super excited or a little nervous (totally normal!), this guide will help you prepare so you can walk into your session feeling confident and ready to enjoy it.

Location, Location, Location

Where we shoot your engagement session sets the vibe for your photos. Think about places that are meaningful to you—maybe where you had your first date, your go-to weekend spot, or a landscape that speaks to your personality. If you’re unsure, I have a list of stunning locations, from urban backdrops to nature-filled escapes, and I’ll help you choose one that fits your vision.

Timing is Everything

Golden hour (the dreamy time just after sunrise or before sunset) is hands-down the best time for soft, flattering light. If you’re a morning person, a sunrise session can be peaceful and romantic. If evenings are more your style, sunset gives us those rich, glowing tones. Either way, we’ll pick a time that works for your schedule and the best lighting.

What to Wear: Outfits That Feel Like You BUT Enhanced

Your engagement session is about celebrating you two. Here are some tips for choosing outfits that look great in photos:

• Stick to what makes you feel confident. If you never wear dresses but think you “should” for photos, ditch that idea! Wear something that feels comfortable and true to your style. I always say, enhance what you normally would wear out, but don’t try to change your style completely.
• Neutrals and earth tones always photograph well. Think deep greens, warm tans, black, white, and soft blues. Avoid neons and busy patterns that might distract from the emotion in your images.
• Complement, don’t match. Coordinating colors and textures look more natural than identical outfits. I only say it’s okay to match if you both want the jeans and white tee look. If so, be fun with your shoes!
• Bring options! Two outfits—one casual, one a little dressier—give variety without making it complicated. This helps with your end gallery. Having that variety is best in my opinion.

Need outfit inspiration? I’ve got a Pinterest board full of ideas here! > Link <

Posing: Don’t Stress It

I never expect you to come in knowing how to pose—guiding you through that is my job! We’ll keep it natural, moving and interacting instead of holding stiff poses. Expect a mix of playful, romantic, and some unexpected moments that will make you laugh. Just show up as yourselves, and I’ll take care of the rest.

Making the Session More You

Want to personalize your session? Bring props or elements that make sense for your story! Some ideas:

• A cozy blanket for snuggly shots
• A bottle of champagne to pop (because why not?)
• Your dog (YES, always yes to dogs), of course, if the location is pet friendly
• A vintage car, motorcycles, or bikes
• Coffee cups from your favorite local spot

Whatever makes you feel most you, let’s incorporate it!

What If It Rains?

We’ll keep an eye on the forecast. If it’s light rain and you’re up for some romantic, cozy shots with an umbrella, I say let’s go for it. If it’s a full-on storm, we’ll reschedule as it’s important to keep everyone safe.

Relax and Have Fun!

Your engagement session isn’t about perfect—it’s about real. Laugh, be goofy, get close, and don’t be afraid to let loose. The best photos happen when you’re just enjoying each other.

Can’t wait to capture this season of your story. Got questions? Shoot me a message—I’m here to help!