Everything You Need to Know Before Your Engagement Session
Your engagement session is a great way to capture authentic moments and get comfortable in front of the camera before the wedding day. Whether you’re excited or a little nervous, this article will walk you through what to expect, how to prepare, and what happens after the session.
What to Expect
It’s totally normal to feel a bit awkward when we first start—most couples do! The first 15 minutes might feel a little stiff, but that’ll fade quickly. I’ll guide you through the entire session, keeping things laid-back and fun, so the experience feels natural, not forced. While my approach focuses on capturing candid moments, I’ll give you just enough direction to help you feel confident in front of the camera.
Think of this as a collaboration—I’m here to guide you every step of the way, but I also encourage you to share any ideas or inspiration you have. Whether it’s a specific pose, location, or vibe, your input is always welcome. Typically, we’ll spend about an hour together, though the timing might shift slightly depending on our location and how the session flows. There’s no rush—just come with an open mind, and let’s enjoy the process together. And hey, if a little pre-shoot drink helps you loosen up, no judgment here!
What to Wear
When it comes to outfits, I typically recommend bringing two different looks: one casual and one more formal. For the casual option, think along the lines of jeans and a nice top, something comfortable and easy to move in. For the dressier outfit, a simple dress or a sharp jacket can look great. Neutral colors, earthy tones, and simple patterns work best in photos as they keep the focus on you rather than on your clothes. Don’t be afraid to bring a few fun accessories (like hats, scarves, or jackets) that you can take on and off during the session to switch things up.
Your outfits can also depend on the location we’re shooting at. For example, flowy dresses or light fabrics look beautiful for a beach session, while richer tones or layered outfits can be perfect for a city or forest setting.
Ultimately, your outfits should reflect your personal style and make you feel confident. If you prefer to stick with just one look, that’s totally fine too!
If you need ideas, feel free to check out my Pinterest board for inspiration. If you're torn between outfits, send me a couple of options, and I’ll help you choose what’ll look best in the photos!
Bring Props that Reflect Your Personality
If you’re looking to add a personal touch to your session, consider bringing a few props. These could be items that represent who you are as a couple or things that make the session more fun. For example, popping a bottle of champagne, setting up a picnic with your favorite snacks, or bringing along your dog can add a unique vibe to your photos. If you’ve got something special like a vintage car or a sentimental object, feel free to include it. Props help tell your story, but remember—they’re totally optional. You don’t need to bring anything, but if there’s something meaningful to you both, it can add a nice personal touch to the shoot.
Whatever you choose, don’t feel pressured. You and your connection are the most important elements of the session, and that’s what will shine through in the photos.
After the Session
Once we wrap up, I’ll dive into editing your photos to make sure each image looks its best. You can expect to receive your online gallery within 2 weeks. I take care to go through the images and edit with attention to detail, so thanks in advance for your patience. In your gallery, you’ll be able to download the photos directly and, if you'd like, order prints straight from the site.
Once your photos are in hand, feel free to share them on social media—just be sure to tag my business when you post. I always love seeing couples share their sessions, and it’s a great way to spread the love!
At the end of the day, an engagement session is all about capturing who you are as a couple. It’s a chance to celebrate this exciting time in your lives while getting a little more comfortable with the camera before the big day. Looking forward to seeing you at your session!
