Engagement Session Guide


Engagement Session Guide


Engagement Sessions
May 1, 2025

Planning the Perfect Engagement Session: Outfits, Locations, and Little Touches

Engagement sessions are the perfect way to connect with your photographer, get comfortable in front of the camera, and create images that feel uniquely you. Here’s how to plan one that feels authentic, easy, and beautiful.

Your Engagement Session Guide

Engagement sessions are more than just a warm-up for wedding photos—they’re a chance to slow down, connect, and create beautiful imagery that reflects your love. Whether you’re dreaming of golden light in the desert or a cozy in-home shoot, this guide will help you feel confident, prepared, and fully yourself.

1. Why Engagement Sessions Matter

  • • Build comfort with your photographer (hi!) before the big day
  • • A chance to capture your love in a more casual, personal way
  • • Great for save-the-dates, wedding websites, or even guest books

2. Choosing the Right Outfit(s)

  • • Coordinate, don’t match. Complementary tones photograph best
  • • Consider two outfits: one dressy, one casual
  • • Avoid busy patterns or logos
  • • Don’t forget accessories that reflect your personalities (hats, jewelry, etc.)
  • • Be mindful of footwear, especially if we’ll be walking a bit


Couple walking through Joshua Tree National Park during their engagement session

3. Picking the Perfect Location

  • • Somewhere meaningful (first date spot, favorite hike, your home)
  • • Out in nature(desert at golden hour, mountain overlooks, beaches, forests)
  • • Urban and architectural (old towns, alleyways, rooftops, downtown charm)
  • • Studio or in-home sessions for something cozy/intimate
  • • Pro tip: Ask yourself what kind of setting reflects your relationship best. It can even be a combo of some of these above!

Couple standing in an autumn field in Flagstaff, Arizona for their engagement session

4. Props & Personal Touches

  • • Champagne pop or picnic setup
  • • A blanket for snuggling shots
  • • Your dog (yes please!)
  • • Bikes, vintage cars, instruments—anything unique to you
  • • Bringing a bouquet or floral sprig can be a subtle romantic touch
  • • Consider using the same aesthetic as your wedding for brand consistency

Couple holding a lantern at dusk during their engagement session in Joshua Tree, CA

5. Timing Tips

  • • Golden hour is always a winner (the hour after sunrise or before sunset)
  • • Weekdays usually have less crowded locations
  • • Be prepared for weather fluctuations and embrace the unexpected (wind, fog, clouds = mood!)

6. Final Reminders

  • • Bring a bag with essentials: water, a mirror, wipes, backup shoes, etc.
  • • Trust the process—we’ll create magic together
  • • This session is all about capturing your connection—have fun with it

Want to add an engagement session to your wedding package?

Even if you didn’t book one originally, it’s not too late! Engagement sessions can be added on at any time—and they make a beautiful pre-wedding experience. Just reach out if you’re interested, and I’ll send over the details.

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