Congratulations on your engagement! I’m so excited to be part of this season with you. This guide is here to help you feel confident and prepared before we meet for your engagement session. From picking the perfect spot to knowing what to bring, I’ve got you covered. Take a few minutes to read through it now—and maybe again the day before your shoot. The more relaxed and ready you are, the more fun (and photogenic!) this whole experience will be.

How to pick Location


The best locations are the ones that feel like you. This isn’t about picking the trendiest place—it’s about finding a spot where you feel happy, comfortable, and yourselves. Whether that’s a cozy coffee shop, a city rooftop, or a quiet trail, choose a setting that reflects your relationship. If a place holds meaning—like your first date spot—even better! Not sure where to go? Just think about the vibe you want for your session. Do you want it to feel fancy, fun, adventurous, or intimate? Once we figure that out, I’ll help you brainstorm and make sure the lighting and timing work perfectly.


A few things to keep in mind:

  • Pick a location you both enjoy (don’t force a hike if you’re not outdoorsy!)
  • The vibe of the location affects the style of the photos (e.g. a theater will look moody, a field will look airy)
  • If we’re doing multiple spots, try to keep them close together so we don’t lose momentum
  • If you’re stuck, I’m here to help—just tell me what feeling you want to capture

What to wear

Looking good starts with feeling good. Wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable—whether that’s your favorite jeans or a new dress you can’t stop twirling in. You don’t need to dress up for the sake of the camera. The goal is to feel like the best version of yourself!


Here are a few helpful tips:

  • Think about your location when picking your outfit (you don’t want heels on a hiking trail!)
  • Stick to your style—don’t try something totally out of your comfort zone for the first time
  • Solids photograph better than busy prints (but subtle patterns can work too)
  • Start with neutrals and build from there—less is often more
  • Avoid tight clothing that highlights areas you’re self-conscious about
  • Dress for the weather! Cute coats and layers are your friends
  • Don’t match—coordinate! You should both look like you’re going to the same place
  • Still unsure? I’m happy to give feedback—text me your outfit options!
Close-up shot of hands resting on a navy blue suit jacket showing an engagement ring.

 

be prepared

 

A little prep goes a long way in making the session stress-free and fun. These quick steps will help everything go smoothly:

Pre session tips:


  • Lay out/Iron your outfits and accessories the night before
  • Don’t cut or color your hair the day before—aim for 1–2 weeks before
  • Get a manicure! I’ll definitely be photographing that ring 💍 (Press-ons work great too—just be sure to bring extra nails and glue to the session, just in case one pops off!)
  • Clean your ring so it’s extra sparkly
  • Try on your outfit ahead of time to make sure you still love how it fits
  • Bring backup outfit just in case!

What to bring:


  • Water (especially if we’re outdoors)
  • Clean snacks (nothing messy or crumbly)
  • Hair tools: brush, hairspray, gel
  • Makeup for touch-ups + a towel if it’s hot
  • A change of clothes if you want to switch things up
  • Comfy shoes for walking between locations
  • Props! If you’re a little shy in front of the camera, props can give you something fun to do with your hands and help you feel more natural. Think: a coat to throw over your shoulder while walking cozy down the street, a champagne bottle to pop, a Bible to hold together, or anything that feels like you. There’s so much we can play with to make your photos feel personal and fun!
A romantic couple shares an intimate moment on a grassy hill, with the person in navy suit embracing their partner in white.
A couple in formal attire poses together on a path with green hills in the background.
A couple in blue suit and white dress share playful moments among colorful garden flowers.
A couple shares joyful laughter while sitting together on a wooden bench in a garden setting.
A couple in formal attire walks hand in hand along a garden path surrounded by lush greenery.
A couple embraces on a garden path surrounded by green foliage and wooden benches.
A romantic black and white portrait of a couple in formal attire sharing an intimate moment.
A tender moment between a couple in blue suit and white dress against a green hillside backdrop.
A couple shares romantic kisses in a garden setting with colorful flowers in the background.
A couple poses playfully along a garden walkway surrounded by vibrant pink flowers and tropical plants.
A couple poses in a garden setting with vibrant pink flowers and greenery in the background.
A couple runs playfully through a grassy field on a sunny day.
A romantic couple shares an intimate moment on a grassy hill, with the person in navy suit embracing their partner in white.
A couple in formal attire poses together on a path with green hills in the background.
A couple in blue suit and white dress share playful moments among colorful garden flowers.
A couple shares joyful laughter while sitting together on a wooden bench in a garden setting.
A couple in formal attire walks hand in hand along a garden path surrounded by lush greenery.
A couple embraces on a garden path surrounded by green foliage and wooden benches.
A romantic black and white portrait of a couple in formal attire sharing an intimate moment.
A tender moment between a couple in blue suit and white dress against a green hillside backdrop.
A couple shares romantic kisses in a garden setting with colorful flowers in the background.
A couple poses playfully along a garden walkway surrounded by vibrant pink flowers and tropical plants.
A couple poses in a garden setting with vibrant pink flowers and greenery in the background.
A couple runs playfully through a grassy field on a sunny day.

There's More!


Let’s talk about how the session will actually go. I shoot in a very natural, movement-based style. That means I won’t pose you stiffly—I’ll give you prompts and direction, and let you be yourselves. Think of it less like a photo shoot and more like a really fun, slightly romantic date... with me tagging along like your overly enthusiastic third wheel.


Here’s how to make the most of it:


  • Keep moving! The more you interact with each other, the more candid and genuine your photos will feel
  • Get handsy! Touch each other, hold hands, play with hair, kiss lots—this is YOUR love story
  • Don’t be afraid to be silly—we’ll laugh, joke, and maybe even chicken dance
  • Let me know your favorite music—I’ll bring a speaker to help set the mood
  • If a pose feels awkward, stop and adjust—comfort always comes first
  • Be yourself. Pinterest is great, but you’re not them—and that’s the best part


Bonus tip: If you have something special you want to include—a motorcycle, your dog, a picnic basket, or even a quirky prop—bring it! Anything that tells your story or makes you smile is welcome.