Stress-Free Engagement Session: A Guide

Your engagement photos isn’t a preformance. It’s a little date, one where you get cute, wander somewhere pretty, and get to feel your best with your favorite person. My job is to make the process feel comfortable, fun, and real. But, let’s be honest, we can’t all just magically get rid of the stress because some girl on the internet with a camera said “hey don’t worry”. So, lets talk about how to ACTUALLY have a stress-free engagement session

Why Engagement Photos Actually Matter

Engagement photos give you space to slow down and breathe. This season of life goes fast, and having photos where you look at each other and think, “Yeah… that’s us,” is priceless.

They’re also a sneak peek into how we’ll work together on your wedding day. You’ll see how I guide, direct, and prompt in a way that feels easy and natural—not awkward and staged.

Also? It’s just fun. Like… shockingly fun. Even if you swear you’re “so awkward.” once you get dancing and in the zone with your love, I pinky promise you will have a blast.

Choosing a Location That Feels Like You

The spot we choose says so much about your vibe. Think about the energy you want in your photos:

Soft & Romantic

  • Desert golden hour with warm, glowy light

  • A tucked-away grove of trees

  • A quiet, empty lake at sunset

Bold & Adventurous

  • Rocky overlooks or open trails

  • Waterfalls or river spots

  • Sunrise on a ridge with insane views

Cozy & Personal

  • Your living room with coffee and your dog

  • Your favorite bookstore or café

  • A rooftop downtown with city lights

If you don’t know where to begin, I’ll send options that match your style, comfort level, and accessibility needs.

What to Wear (Without Overthinking It)

You don’t need to shop for a whole new wardrobe (unless you want an excuse).
Here’s the honest truth: the best outfit is the one you feel confident in.

Simple tips that make a big difference

  • Neutrals always photograph beautifully

  • Think textures and movement—linen, knit, flowy fabric, denim

  • Coordinate without being matchy-matchy

  • Skip logos and neon

  • Bring one “cute” outfit and one “comfortable” outfit

And yes, you can absolutely send me outfit ideas. I love being a hype girl.

“We’re Awkward” Couples… You’re My People

Pretty much everyone says this. And by the time we’re 10 minutes in, you’re laughing, cuddling, hyping each other up.

I guide you with prompts, not stiff poses.

Perfect Timing: When to Schedule Your Session

Golden hour (the last hour before sunset) is that girl.

If you're up for early mornings, sunrise is also magical and way less crowded, especially if you and your partner would rather not have an audience.

What to Bring to Your Session

Not much! But a few things help:

  • Comfortable shoes for walking

  • Water (desert couples… don’t skip this)

  • Touch-up items

  • A blanket for cozy shots

  • Anything personal you want in your photos, champagne, flowers, your pet, your hobbies

And absolutely yes, you can bring your dog, cat, lizard and/or, hedghog.

Make Your Session Personal

Your engagement photos don’t have to look like anyone else’s.

Include things that feel meaningful:

  • The place you had your first date

  • Your favorite pastime (records, hiking, cooking)

  • Your pet

  • A location tied to your relationship

Your session should feel like a lived-in moment, not a photo shoot.

Ready to Plan Your Engagement Photos?

Your love story deserves photos that feel honest, comfortable, and joyful—without the pressure or awkwardness.

If you’re ready to start planning (or want help with location ideas or outfits), I’ve got you.Let’s jump in.

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Picking Your Wedding Photographer Matters for Life

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Why Add Film to Your Wedding Gallery?