You’re engaged!!! Cue the champagne toasts, and all the planning! Somewhere in the middle of venue tours and dress shopping, it’s time to schedule your engagement session. Whether you’re feeling excited, nervous, or have no idea what to expect, I’ve got you covered.

As a wedding photographer, I know engagement photos can feel a little intimidating at first. But I promise with the right mindset and a little preparation, they’ll end up being one of your favorite parts of the whole wedding experience. Here are my 10 best tips to help you feel confident, look amazing, and have fun during your engagement session!

1. Pick a Location That Feels Like You

Your location sets the tone. Do you want dreamy open fields, city streets, dramatic cliffs, or a cute coffee shop? Think about what feels most like your relationship. Don’t worry, I can always help with suggestions based on your vibe. Pro Tip: If you’re stuck, think about where you spend time together or what your ideal weekend looks like. That usually points us in the right direction!

2. Dress Like Yourself, Just a Little Elevated

Your outfits should feel comfortable but polished. Neutral or earth-toned colors photograph beautifully and tend to keep the focus on your connection. Flowy dresses, fitted tops, layers, and textures (like denim, knits, or linen) work great on camera. Skip: Busy patterns, neon colors, or super tight clothing that you’ll be adjusting constantly!

3. Plan Your Session Around the Best Light

Golden hour (the hour before sunset) is magic for a reason. That soft, glowy light is flattering and romantic. I’ll help time the session so we make the most of it. If you’re planning a morning session instead, think soft sunrise vibes and coffee shop coziness.

4. Trust the Process (and Your Photographer)

I don’t expect you to know what to do with your hands or how to pose, I’ve got you! I’ll guide you with prompts and movement-based direction so nothing feels stiff or awkward. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s connection.

5. Think About Hair, Makeup & Grooming Ahead of Time

You don’t need full glam (unless that’s your thing!), but a little extra effort can go a long way on camera. Many brides use their engagement session as a test run for their wedding hair/makeup artist.

6. Use Your Photos Intentionally

Don’t let your photos live in a folder. Engagement photos are perfect for save-the-dates, your wedding website, guest book albums, framed prints at your reception, and even on social media to tell the world “We’re getting married!” You invested in this experience, let those images be part of your story!

Your engagement session isn’t just about getting a few nice photos, it’s about capturing this season of your life, when everything is new and exciting and you’re dreaming about forever. I’m here to help you feel seen, celebrated, and 100% yourself through every frame.

And the best part? Once we’ve done this session together, you’ll feel so much more comfortable on your wedding day. That’s a win-win!

Planning your engagement session? Let’s talk about the season you love most and how to make it work for your vision. Tap here for more!

KIND WORDS

“My husband and I eloped to Carmel, California and I am still in awe of how beautiful our pictures came out. A literal Pinterest dream! She was extremely easy going, easy to communicate with and I’m just so glad we found her! 10 out of 10 recommend!”

-Mikayla F.