Congratulations on your engagement! This joyous occasion will be marked as one of the best days of your lives! You no doubt have started wedding planning and visiting Pinterest daily. While your ‘To-do-list’ is growing, don’t forget to have fun during the planning process. In my opinion, the engagement session is one of the times you can put planning aside and truly have fun. Unlike the wedding day, there is no time crunch, and no pressure. It’s just the two of you enjoying each other’s company, like you’re on a date. Plus, by the time your wedding day rolls around, you’ll be PROS at posing. Here are some tips to make sure you’re ready and comfortable for your session! 

Location and Time

Choosing a location is a personal decision that you and your fiancé should discuss. What do you like to do as a couple: Visit a coffee shop, chill at the beach, hang out downtown, lounge at home watching your fave movies or cooking together? Every couple it different. Choose what you love! Here are some questions to ask yourself when deciding: Is there a location that has special significance? Is there a location we love hanging out as a couple? Or is there a place that we are simply drawn to? What hobbies do we enjoy? I love assisting couples through this process also, and I’m happy to provide suggestions in case you get stuck! 

What to Wear

There are so many ‘rules’ on what to wear for your engagement session. My goal is not to cramp anyone’s style, so these are suggestions.

Suggestion #1 You DON’T have to mach, just coordinate

Suggestion #2 Bring two outfits: one casual and one dressy. Girls, if you’re going for a romantic, feminine vibe choose a long flowing dress. It’s oh-so-gorgeous and adds whimsy to your photos.

Suggestion #3 Choose outfits that mix well with your location, and wear appropriate shoes. 

Suggestion #4 Yes!! Prints are fine! However choose a larger print, because a smaller one will not show up or might be distracting. Try to avoid letters on clothing also. 

Hair and Makeup

You know that wedding day hair and makeup trial that you’ve been putting off because you’ve been busy planning? Well, now is the perfect time to have it done. You deserve to feel beautiful! You will shine, and it will show in your photos! Plus, you’ll know exactly how you want your hair and makeup to look on the big day!

Bringing Props

Props are fun!! However, I would suggest bringing only one or two. You won’t want to carry a heavy bag. You’ll want to be as comfortable as possible. I get questions on props frequently. Here is my advice: Bring only what speaks to you as a couple. For example, do you have a hobby you both love? It’s best to incorporate items that have special significance. Some couples like to bring a prop with their wedding date for ‘Save the Date’ invites. 

Including Fur Babies

Can’t envision photos without your four- legged friend? Bring him along! I am 100% fine with pets at a session, but make sure the location you choose allows them. Another very helpful tip (Actually you should do this) Bring a family member or friend to either take your pup home after photos are taken, or watch him for the remainder of the session. Bring water, snacks, and a leash also.

Be on Time

I’m a natural light photographer, and the sun dictates how long I can shoot. My main goal is to give you the best experience, and not rush through your session. The majority of engagement sessions are two hours before sunset, so showing up late will cut into your time and the number of images you receive in your portfolio.

Relax and have FUN

When I say there is NO pressure… I mean it! Most couples feel awkward or that they won’t be any good at ‘posing.’ This is NORMAL! I still feel this way when I have my own picture taken. If you feel nervous, don’t. Just let loose, relax, and have fun! I will instruct you and your fiancé on posing, and Ya’ll will ROCK it! I promise!