Engagement Session Photography Guide

I get so many questions about engagement sessions from couples. So I decided it would be a great idea to compile everything I've ever been asked (what I can remember at least) and answer everything all in one place. Hopefully, this will help you understand the different benefits from having an engagement session done and what to expect from it.

Let's start with the basics. What is an engagement session? An engagement session isn't just about pretty photos (even though you'll get those) - it's about the two of you pressing pause and celebrating a new milestone in your relationship together! Usually, the session will occur before your wedding date. Some couples choose to use those photos to announce the exciting news to their friends and family, posting them on social media and eventually using the images on their save-the-dates.

What happens during an engagement session? I tell couples to think of it as a relaxed date with me as a third wheel. My goal the entire time is to take the pressure off you, help you feel comfortable in front of the camera, and let your genuine selves shine through! It's less about stiff, structured posing and more about creating space for you to laugh, move, and be yourselves together. You never have to come ready with a list of memorized poses. You don't even need to think about that aspect with me!

With my wedding packages, I have always included engagement sessions. Sometimes, couples who book me have already had some photos taken when they first got engaged, and they will ask, "Should we still do an engagement session with you?" And I always answer with an enthusiastic yes. There are so many reasons to have an engagement session with your wedding photographer that go beyond getting more photos together. Think about it, we will likely spend between 6-10 hours together on your wedding day. It's so great to have already built up a rapport together, so I'm not just some stranger in the crowd following you around all day.

Have anxieties about getting your photo taken? Sames. But when you have an engagement session, you get to have a mini dose of what to expect on your wedding day. You get a better understanding of what the process feels like, how I go about guiding you and your partner through posing, and what to expect when you get the photos back. AND I get to know you and your partner a bit better. How you guys move with each other, what works and what maybe doesn't, and things that really make you laugh together.

All these positives are the reason that I don't charge extra for engagement sessions for couples that book with me, as they truly are very important.

How to choose a location? I tell couples to consider a few things when choosing locations. Is there a place that's meaningful to you? Is there an activity that you both really love doing? Is there a specific vibe that you're looking to convey? Or do you just want some cool photos in a pretty place? I've had couples from all spectrums, from one who flew me to Nevada because they wanted the desert as their backdrop to a couple who wanted the entire session just in their home. And as always, I am available to help you find places and brainstorm ideas. I never want you to feel alone in all of this. I fully understand how overwhelming the whole wedding process can be.

What do we wear to the engagement session? Whatever it is you feel good in, you want to feel comfortable in your outfit + practical shoes. I don't think people realize how much walking actually happens during your session (if it's at an outdoor location). The only thing you should pay the most attention to is the top of your outfit. You want to imagine that color reflecting onto your face! So if you wear highlighter yellow, that color will reflect on your skin. You get the idea.

What happens after the engagement session? After the engagement session, I will sit down and edit all of the photos for you. I upload them to your online gallery (usually within 2 weeks), and you and your partner get to sit back and check them all out! Your engagement photos will live in the same gallery as your wedding photos. I like to keep things easy to find. Most couples will use these images for save-the-dates, their online wedding portal, and to share the fun news on social media!