These cuties knocked their engagement session out of the park! But I know that preparing for your engagement session can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure what to expect. Don’t worry bebe (said in my best Moira Rose impression)! Take my advice, and you’ll be fully prepared to make the most out of your experience and capture beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.

1. Choose your location wisely: Pick a location that reflects your personality and style as a couple. Whether it’s a scenic park, a beach, a city street, or even your own home, make sure the location resonates with you and your partner. I always scout out the areas I’m shooting and research the best spots, but if there’s somewhere that you love, let me know beforehand! That way, I can make sure we’re there at the best time, and prepared with permits, appropriate gear, etc.
2. Plan your outfits: This might sound like a no brainer, but think about what you’re wearing ahead of time. Take time to try on your outfits side by side, and make sure you like how they look together. Sometimes, the clothes we have picked out in our mind don’t end up coming together quite as well in real life. When preparing for your engagement session, also remember to steam or iron clothes that are particularly wrinkled.
3. Hair and Makeup: I’m not saying you need to hire a professional hair and makeup artist for your engagement session (although I know some incredible ones if you want to go that route!). I’m simply suggesting that today is not the day to try new elaborate updos or wing it with a new foundation and eye makeup look. You want to feel confident and be able to focus on your partner during your session. Chances are, a brand new look is not going to give you the confidence you need to be in front of the lens for a long period of time.
4. Communicate with your photographer: This is HUGE! Please Please PLEASE talk to me! I want to know what your vision is for this session. I want to know if you’re terrified of water or allergic to grass. Nothing is worse than planning an entire session only to find out the couple can’t walk through the grass to your perfectly scouted spot, and they hate the water so much that your lake photos are now a permanent reminder of the most terrifying day of their lives! Have some fears or concerns about the shoot itself? Talk to me about those too! I’m here for you. Let me help.
5. Stay hydrated and well-rested: Make sure you drink plenty of water and get a good night’s sleep before your session. Obviously this will help you feel more energized and refreshed, but that’s not all! It also helps improve your mood, makes your skin look better, and makes it easier to embrace the moment! That brings me to my next tip…
6. Embrace the moment: Remember that your engagement session is a celebration of your love and commitment to each other. It’s the first of many photos you’ll take together during this chapter and season in life. Embrace the moment, have fun, and let your love shine through in your photos. I promise that your genuine emotions and connection will make for the most beautiful and meaningful photos.
7. Timing is key: When we start planning for your engagement photos, we’ll talk about the best time to take them. Want sunset photos in the summer time? Be prepared to be out pretty dang late! Want photos in the snow? Your April photo session probably isn’t going to be a great time for that here in the PNW. When I suggest a time of day for your session, I’m doing so with your experience in mind. I take into account where the sun will be, how busy it might be at our location, and a number of other factors. We have to plan accordingly.
8. Don’t forget the details: If there’s something important to have included in your engagement photos, make a list! Engagement rings, check! That hat that your partner loves on you, check! Cute dog, double check! This is the time to consider the small details that are going to matter to you when you look back. If it matters, put it on the list.
9. Relax and have fun: Don’t worry too much about getting the perfect shot. As a photographer, I see it all the time. You start posing, you get too in your head, and the photos get…weird. I promise I’ll guide you when I feel like you need help. But I also know from years of experience that some of the best photos come when you’re just being natural and being yourself. If you let yourself relax and have a good time with your partner, you’ll end up with photos that are not only better, but also serve as actual captured memories. That’s really the point of these sessions anyways, right?
10. Trust your photographer: Last, but certainly not least — Remember that your photographer is a professional! They have the skills and experience to capture beautiful photos. Trust their guidance and enjoy the experience! You chose your photographer for a reason. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!

Preparing for your engagement session doesn’t have to be a headache. And it shouldn’t be super stressful! I want you to enjoy your time with me just as much as you enjoy the final product. I promise to show up with my best dad jokes, endless Schitt’s Creek references, and tons of stories about my fur babies to keep you laughing. We’re gonna have a good time.

These cuties did absolutely everything right. We had a great time! They are absolutely perfect for one another, and I already want to take more photos of them! It’s a little hard to be objective since they brought the cutest puppy with. But I still give them a 10 out of 10! Congratulations you two. Wishing you the most happily ever after.