What to Expect at Your Engagement Session
Engagement sessions are not about posing perfectly or knowing what to do. They’re about slowing down, getting comfortable in front of the camera together, and creating space for real connection.
For many couples, this is their first professional photo session in years, and that’s completely okay. My approach is designed to feel relaxed, guided, and unhurried, so you can simply show up as yourselves and enjoy the experience.
Here’s what you can expect when we photograph your engagement session together.
BEFORE YOUR SESSION
Before we meet, you’ll find a short engagement session questionnaire in your client portal. This helps me get to know you beyond just names and logistics. I want to understand who you are, what you’re drawn to, and how you naturally interact together.
The questions are designed to give me insight into your dynamic, your comfort level in front of the camera, and anything that will help the session feel more natural and personal. There are no right or wrong answers, and nothing needs to sound a certain way. Honest, thoughtful responses are far more helpful than polished ones.
This step allows me to approach your session with intention. From how I guide you, to the pacing of the session, to the prompts I use, everything is shaped by what I learn about you ahead of time. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s familiarity.
The more I understand your dynamic going in, the more tailored and effortless the experience will feel when we’re together.
DURING THE SESSION
Engagement sessions are intentionally slow-paced. We ease into things, take our time, and allow space for you to get comfortable together in front of the camera.
The first few minutes often feel a little unfamiliar, and that’s completely normal. I’ll gently guide you with prompts and light direction so nothing ever feels stiff or awkward. Rather than holding formal poses, most of the session is built around movement, connection, and natural interaction.
As we walk through the location, I’ll continuously guide you, adjusting your positioning, offering simple prompts, and making small refinements as needed. You won’t be left wondering what to do next or how to stand. I’m always paying attention to light, background, and how you’re interacting together so everything flows naturally from one moment to the next.
My approach is very hands-on in the best way. I’ll let you know where to stand, how to shift your weight, when to move, and when to simply pause and be present together. If something doesn’t feel quite right, we adjust and keep going. There’s no pressure to “get it right.”
You don’t need to worry about where to put your hands, how you look, or whether you’re doing it correctly. I’ll take care of the guidance and the pacing so you can focus on being present with each other and enjoying the experience.
LOCATION GUIDANCE
Choosing a location sets the tone for your session, and I’m always happy to help guide this decision.
Some couples are drawn to scenic outdoor spaces, while others prefer a more personal setting, like a favorite neighborhood, coffee shop, or an area that feels meaningful to them. There’s no right or wrong choice, only what feels most authentic to who you are together.
When we’re planning your session, I also consider the pace and feel of a location. In more urban or city settings, I’m mindful of how busy an area might be and choose spots that allow us to move easily without feeling rushed or on display. Quieter locations can create a more intimate atmosphere, while city environments bring energy and movement, and both can photograph beautifully.
It’s also helpful to know that some locations, especially in cities or popular public spaces, may require a photo permit or have associated fees. I’ll walk you through any considerations like this as we narrow down options, so there are no surprises and everything feels clear and intentional from the start.
My goal is always to choose a location that not only looks beautiful, but also allows you to feel comfortable, present, and fully yourselves throughout the session.
TIME AND LIGHT
Whenever possible, sessions are scheduled around soft, flattering light, typically near sunrise or sunset. That said, comfort always comes first. We’ll choose a time that works best for the season, weather, and your schedule so the experience feels enjoyable from start to finish.
Living in the Midwest means we experience all four seasons, and each one brings something beautiful to photographs. Colder weather sessions can be especially stunning, with softer light, layered textures, and a quieter atmosphere. They just require a bit more thoughtful planning.
For cooler sessions, I’m mindful of pacing, locations, and nearby spots where we can warm up if needed. I’ll also help guide outfit choices so you stay comfortable while still photographing beautifully. The goal is never to push through discomfort, but to create an experience that feels relaxed and well cared for.
Flexibility is always built into the process, and we’ll adjust as needed to make sure you feel comfortable, confident, and present throughout the session.
WHAT TO WEAR
The most important thing you can wear is something that feels like you.
Comfort matters. When you feel good in what you’re wearing, it shows in the photos. Neutral tones, subtle textures, and clothing that allows you to move easily tend to photograph beautifully, but personal style always comes first.
For most sessions, I recommend planning for one to two outfits. This allows us to create variety while still keeping the session relaxed and focused on connection. Outfit changes can take more time than expected, especially on location, so keeping things simple helps us spend more of our time photographing rather than transitioning between looks.
If you’d like to change outfits, I’m happy to help guide those choices so everything flows naturally and fits the setting. I’m also always available to offer feedback or help coordinate outfits ahead of time if that would be helpful.
The goal is to choose clothing that supports the experience rather than distracts from it, so you can stay present and enjoy the session. Need some inspo? Check out my Pinterest board.
AFTER YOUR SESSION
Once the session wraps, I always encourage couples to make an evening of it. Grab dinner, take a walk, or enjoy the time together. Engagement sessions are just as much about the experience as they are about the photos.
Your full engagement gallery will be delivered within 3–4 weeks in an online gallery, where you’ll be able to download, share, and print your images.
A FEW MORE TIPS
A little preparation can go a long way in helping your session feel relaxed and effortless.
If it feels right for you, some couples choose to have their hair, makeup, or nails done ahead of time. This can also be a great opportunity to schedule a hair and makeup trial for your wedding, but it’s completely optional.
Having your ring cleaned beforehand can make a subtle difference in close-up images, especially during hand-holding and detail shots.
When it comes to wardrobe, choosing pieces that don’t require constant adjusting will help you stay present during the session. Being mindful of visible straps, tags, or bulky items in pockets allows the focus to stay on the connection between you.
If you’ll be bringing phones, keys, or small personal items, a simple bag or tote is helpful so nothing needs to be tucked into pockets during photos.
Just like the wedding day itself, a bit of thoughtful planning ahead of time helps everything flow more smoothly. There’s no need to overthink it. I’ll guide you through the rest.
