Your Engagement Session, Simplified

Planning your engagement session should feel exciting — not overwhelming. This guide will help you feel confident, prepared, and totally yourself during your session. From outfits to locations, weather to mindset, I’ve gathered everything you need to know in one easy-to-follow place.

Start by selecting a location that feels true to your relationship. Whether it’s a scenic overlook, charming garden, or cozy downtown corner — the vibe should reflect you as a couple.

Need inspiration? Check out my list of favorite engagement session spots — complete with photos, fees, and links.

• Color Palette Tips
  • Suggest coordinating instead of matching — pick 2–3 tones within the same palette.
  • Soft earth tones (tan, olive, cream, muted rust, dusty blue) photograph beautifully across all seasons.
  • If shooting in a very green/mountain location, avoid wearing bright green to prevent blending into the background.
  • Deep jewel tones work well in fall/winter and add richness to mountain sessions.
  • Avoid loud logos, busy patterns, or ultra-bright neons. Be especially cautious when choosing patterns that the design is not tiny. This can cause distracting lens malfunctions that make your images appear disorienting. Be sure should avoid small gingham and geometrical patterns. 
  • Think textures over prints — think linen, cotton, wool, or flowy chiffon.
• Bring 1–2 outfits: one casual, one dressy. Choose fabrics that move well and make you feel amazing.
  • Keep in mind that outfit changes may not be an option depending on the location you go with. You can always clarify this with me if needed. 
• Here is a Pinterest Board that will give you good inspiration.
• I highly recommend that you avoid wearing a dress that is shorter than knee length, as it will make posing you together difficult. I also recommend straying away from anything overly tight for the same reasons. 
• Keep pockets empty (no phones or keys during the session).
• Clean engagement ring in advance — those close-ups matter!

Many outdoor locations include dirt paths, gravel, or uneven terrain. I recommend bringing a pair of comfortable walking shoes and slipping into your dress shoes right before we shoot. Your feet (and balance!) will thank you.

Here’s a quick list of things you may want to bring:

• Comfy shoes for walking between spots
• Touch-up makeup / hair products
• A small mirror
• A water bottle or mini snack
• A lint roller
• Your engagement ring (cleaned!)
• Any sentimental props you’d like to include

We’ll keep an eye on the forecast and adjust if needed. I always recommend:

• Layering, especially in the mountains or during fall
• Bringing a clear umbrella (just in case!)
• Choosing footwear that can handle wet or muddy ground if rain is possible

If rescheduling becomes necessary, I’ll work with you to find the next best date — no stress.

Absolutely! I love when couples include their furry family members.

• Be sure to bring a leash and a friend or family member to help manage them when we’re not shooting with them.
• Treats and waste bags are a must.
• Let me know ahead of time so we can factor pet-friendly locations into our plan.

This is the most important part. You do not need to be a professional model. I’ll guide you with gentle direction and prompts that bring out real connection, laughter, and intimacy.

The best sessions happen when you focus less on “posing” and more on simply enjoying each other.

• We’ll usually aim to shoot around golden hour — the 1–2 hours before sunset — for the most flattering light. On certain occasions, I can work out a sunrise session but most of my clients prefer to shoot in the evenings. 
• Mountain locations may require more hiking time and certain venues may require permit approvals, so keep flexibility in mind.
• Have a Plan B for weather or crowds if we’re shooting in a popular spot, or a place that sometimes hosts events. If you have your heart set on a location, it’s important to be flexible on shooting times in order to ensure that things will work out.

Each season brings a unique vibe:

• Spring: Blooming flowers, soft greens — but unpredictable rain.
• Summer: Lush greenery, long daylight — bring water and prep for heat. Unpredictable thunderstorms and rain are very common, and rescheduling is likely to happen.
• Fall: Gorgeous color, crisp air — the most popular season, so book early.
• Winter: Moody, cozy, sometimes snowy — beautiful for more dramatic tones and textures.

Dressing appropriately and planning with the season in mind makes all the difference. Think about what colors will look seamless with the scenery.

At the end of the day, this session is about you two — your chemistry, your connection, and this exciting season you’re in. Don’t stress the little things. Come as you are, trust the process, and know I’ll be guiding you every step of the way. The most beautiful photos come from feeling present and fully yourselves. I’m so excited to help create something timeless that reflects your love perfectly.