Engagement Sessions: Why They Matter (And How to Prepare) 

While many couples initially think of engagement sessions as optional, here’s why they’re actually a powerful part of your wedding journey:

1. You’ll Get Comfortable in Front of the Camera

Most couples aren’t used to being professionally photographed. This session helps break the ice and ease camera nerves, so when your wedding day arrives, posing feels more natural and stress-free.

2. Build Trust With Your Photographer

An engagement session allows your photographer to learn how you interact as a couple—your chemistry, comfort levels, and best angles. It creates a smoother dynamic on the wedding day.

3. Beautiful Photos for Invitations & Save-the-Dates

Use your engagement photos for wedding invitations, guestbooks, welcome signage, social media announcements, or even a slideshow during your reception.

4. Celebrate Your Story in a More Personal Way

Unlike your wedding day (which is full of schedules and formalities), your engagement shoot is all about you. Choose a setting or theme that reflects your personality and love story.

Best time: 3 to 6 months before the wedding

Seasonal considerations: Think about weather and natural backdrops (golden hour, beach sunsets, etc.)

Time of day: Golden hour—an hour after sunrise or before sunset—is the most flattering lighting for romantic portraits

Think of a location that reflects your story, vibe, or shared interests:

• 🌅 A scenic outdoor spot (beach, mountains, forest, garden)

• 🏙️ Urban backdrops (city streets, rooftops, cafes)

• 🛋️ Indoors (studio, cozy home session, Airbnb)

• 📚 Sentimental places (first date spot, proposal site, favorite café)

Pro Tip: Choose 1–3 outfits and limit to 1–2 locations to make the most of your session time.

Dress Like Yourself—But Elevated
Choose outfits that make you feel confident, but photograph beautifully (avoid heavy logos or overly trendy prints).

Complement Each Other
Coordinating colors > matching outfits. Earth tones, pastels, and neutrals work well.

Bring Outfits
One formal and one casual adds variety to your gallery. Think date-night glam + cozy-chic.

Don’t Forget the Details
Shoes, accessories, nails, hair, and grooming—all matter in close-up shots.

• Light posing guidance from your photographer (you don’t need to know anything in advance)

• A relaxed, fun, and romantic vibe—lots of laughing, cuddling, and real connection

• 1 to 5 hours of shooting time

• Natural and candid moments mixed with posed portraits

Bonus: Some photographers offer engagement sessions as part of their wedding package—ask if yours is included!

• Extra outfits and accessories

• Comfortable walking shoes (you can swap for heels later)

• Makeup touch-up kit

• Props (optional: signs, champagne, pets, books, bikes—anything personal to your story)

• Water and snacks (especially for outdoor sessions)

• Q: What if we’re awkward or shy?
  That’s totally normal! Engagement sessions are meant to help with that. A good photographer will gently direct and guide you.

• Q: Can we include our pet?
  Absolutely! Just let your photographer know in advance so they can plan around it.

• Q: What if the weather is bad?
  We can reschedule or shift to a covered/indoor location. Flexibility is key.

• Q: How long before we get the photos?
  Turnaround time is typically 1–2 weeks, depending on the photographer. Some offer sneak peeks within a few days.