Planning Your Engagement Photos
Now that you're engaged, it’s time to make a plan for your engagement photos! This is one of my favorite types of shoots. It’s a time to slow down, have fun, and capture the sweet connection that brought you two together in the first place. Whether you’ve already booked your session or are still dreaming it up, here are my top tips to help you feel confident, relaxed, and camera-ready for your engagement shoot.
1. Choose a Location That Reflects You
Do you both love hiking, downtown coffee dates, or beach walks at sunset? Let’s choose a spot that feels personal. Your engagement photos should reflect your relationship, so whether it’s a favorite city corner, your backyard, or a mountaintop view, think of places that matter to you both. I’m always happy to help scout or suggest a few hidden gems if you’re unsure!
2. Plan Your Outfits Thoughtfully
You don’t have to match—but you should coordinate. Think of colors and tones that complement each other (neutrals, earthy tones, or soft pastels work beautifully on camera). Avoid bold patterns or logos that distract from your faces. Bring two outfits if you can: one casual, one dressy. And wear something you feel good in—comfort = confidence!
Bonus tip: Consider the location when picking your outfits. A flowing dress in a field or sharp layers for an urban shoot can really bring the scene together.
3. Schedule Wisely
Golden hour—about an hour before sunset—is chef’s kiss for lighting. Soft, golden tones flatter everyone and add a magical glow to your photos. Weekday evenings often work best for avoiding crowds in public locations too. Trust me, a little planning with light and timing makes a big difference!
4. Pamper Yourselves Beforehand
Engagement photos are the perfect excuse to indulge a little! Get your nails done, schedule a hair trim or makeup trial, or just carve out some time to relax before the session. If you feel refreshed and taken care of, it’ll show in your photos.
5. Bring a Few Personal Touches
Props aren’t required, but they can add personality. Think champagne to pop, your pup, a picnic setup, or something meaningful to your story (like your favorite records or books). Don’t stress about it—just think about what feels you.
6. Trust the Process (and Have Fun!)
It’s totally normal to feel a little awkward at first—most people aren’t used to being in front of the camera. But that’s what I’m here for. I’ll guide you with prompts and poses that feel natural, and before you know it, you’ll be laughing, connecting, and genuinely enjoying the moment. Trust that you don’t need to be “models” to get beautiful photos—you just need to be yourselves.
7. Communicate With Your Photographer
Got insecurities or specific shots you want? Tell me! I want you to love every image. If there’s a side of your face you prefer or a must-have pose, don’t hesitate to share. Engagement sessions are collaborative, and your voice matters.
Final Thought: Celebrate This Season
Your engagement is a chapter worth celebrating. It’s not just about the photos—it’s about the connection you’re building and the memories you’re making along the way. So take a deep breath, hold hands, and let’s create something beautiful together.
If you’re ready to start planning your session or have questions about what to wear, when to shoot, or how to get the most out of it—let’s chat! I’m here to make it easy, fun, and unforgettable.
