Let me start with the most important thing I tell every single couple before their engagement session:
You don't need to be "photogenic." You just need to be present.
I've photographed hundreds of couples. The ones who get the most beautiful images aren't the ones who know how to pose. They're the ones who show up, hold each other's hand, and let the moment happen.
That said, a little preparation goes a long way. Here's exactly what I tell my couples before we shoot.
Choose a Location That Means Something
The best engagement photos happen in places that feel authentic to who you are as a couple. The beach you drive to on Sunday mornings. The coffee shop where you had your first date. A quiet stretch of oaks at golden hour that makes you both feel like you're in a movie.
If you can't decide, I always recommend:
- Somewhere outdoors. Natural light is flattering and forgiving
- Somewhere with variety. Water near a field near some trees gives us options
- Somewhere you can move. Static backdrops get boring fast
Wear What Makes You Feel Like You
The biggest wardrobe mistake couples make? Wearing something "for the photos" that they'd never wear in real life. You end up feeling stiff and it reads in every single frame.
My suggestions:
- Coordinate, don't match. Complementary colors and textures look more intentional than identical outfits
- Earth tones photograph beautifully. Creams, terracottas, sage greens, soft blues
- Avoid busy patterns. They can distract from your faces
- Bring a second outfit. Even a quick change adds variety to the gallery
Trust the Process (Seriously)
The first 10 to 15 minutes of any session are always the awkward phase. You feel stiff, you don't know what to do with your hands, you're second-guessing everything.
This is completely normal and temporary.
Once we get moving, walking and talking and laughing at how weird it is to have someone photograph you, everything loosens up. That's when the real photos happen.
The Night Before
A few practical things that make a difference:
- Get some sleep. Under-eye circles are harder to edit than you think
- Eat a good meal. Low blood sugar makes everyone grumpy
- Hydrate. It affects skin more than you know
- Do a full outfit run-through. Make sure nothing is wrinkled, buttons work, shoes aren't killing your feet
On the Day
Show up a few minutes early. Not because I need the time, but because you need it to breathe, decompress, and transition out of the stress of the day. The calmer you arrive, the better the photos.
And most importantly: don't try to make it a session. Try to make it a date. Bring your sense of humor, bring your love for each other, and let me worry about the rest.
Have questions about your engagement session? I love chatting through the details, so reach out anytime.