You’re engaged — cue the happy dance! 💍 One of the most exciting parts of the wedding planning journey is your engagement session. It’s a chance to celebrate this season, connect with your photographer (hey, that’s me!), and capture some amazing photos you’ll treasure forever.


But when is the right time to schedule your session? What should you wear? And what should you really expect from your engagement shoot? Let’s break it down together!

 

When Should You Take Your Engagement Photos?

 

A couple walking together on a sandy beach at sunset while waves roll onto the shore in the background.

A good rule of thumb is to schedule your engagement session 6 to 12 months before your wedding day — especially if you want to use the photos for your save-the-dates or invitations.


Here’s a little timeline tip:


12+ months out: Perfect if you want to get ahead on invites or just want extra time to plan.

6–9 months out: Ideal for most couples — especially if you're aiming for save-the-dates and wedding websites.

3–6 months out: Totally doable if you're not in a rush or just want photos for keepsakes and social media.

Seasonal tip: Choose a season that fits your vibe — dreamy spring blooms, golden fall leaves, or cozy winter romance all make for stunning backdrops.

Bonus? Scheduling earlier also gives us time to reschedule if the weather isn’t playing nice.

Loving couple embracing outdoors in casual attire against green foliage background.
A couple holds hands while walking together on a tree-lined path, she in a floral dress and he in a blue shirt and jeans.
A romantic couple holds hands in a grassy meadow at golden hour as sunlight streams through trees behind them.

 

What Should You Wear for Engagement Photos?

 

Two people sitting close together outdoors on a sunny day wearing casual clothing and showing visible tattoos.
Two people sit together on green grass in front of a rustic red barn wall on a bright summer day.

Great question — and one I get all the time. The short answer? Wear something that feels like YOU but elevated.


Here are a few go-to tips I always share with my couples:


1. Dress for the location and season.


Think flowy dresses for the beach, cozy sweaters for fall, or something formal for a downtown session. Let the setting inspire you.


2. Coordinate, don’t match.


Pick a color palette and build outfits that complement each other — neutrals, earthy tones, or soft pastels photograph beautifully.


3. Bring two outfits if you can.


Start with a more casual look, then switch to something dressier. It adds variety and makes your gallery more dynamic.


4. Avoid small patterns and logos.


They can be distracting in photos. Go for textures and solid colors instead.


5. Be comfortable!


If you feel awkward or restricted, it’ll show. Choose outfits that make you feel confident and relaxed.

Two people sitting close together holding hands in black and white.
Couple in matching blue outfits holding hands while strolling along a wooden walkway surrounded by lush gardens.
A couple sits on rocks outdoors with their beautiful Shetland Sheepdog companion on an autumn day.
A romantic couple in wedding attire embraces at sunset on a beach with a lighthouse silhouetted in the background.
Close-up of two people holding hands intimately, wearing casual clothing in grey and white tones.
A black and white close-up of two hands gently clasped together on white bedding.
Two people in matching blue jeans sit on colorful chalk art painted on a city street.
Black and white photo of couple in an intimate moment showing affection, with a cross necklace visible.
A couple walks together on a leaf-covered path surrounded by trees and golden autumn light.
Two people in casual attire hold hands while walking through golden autumn tall grass in a field during sunset.
Couple embraces tenderly in autumn field with tall brown grass during golden hour portrait session.
A couple running and holding hands along a scenic trail through tall grass on an overcast day.
A couple embraces lovingly while sharing a candid moment in a meadow, captured in black and white photography.
A couple embraces in a golden autumn field during sunset with tall grass and warm lighting.
Two people share a tender embrace and smile together in a romantic outdoor autumn setting.
A couple in plaid and lace share an intimate embrace in a wooded forest setting during autumn.
A couple embraces while standing in tall autumn grass on an overcast day.
A tender romantic moment between a couple in casual attire embracing by a rustic wooden structure.
Two people sitting close together holding hands in black and white.
Couple in matching blue outfits holding hands while strolling along a wooden walkway surrounded by lush gardens.
A couple sits on rocks outdoors with their beautiful Shetland Sheepdog companion on an autumn day.
A romantic couple in wedding attire embraces at sunset on a beach with a lighthouse silhouetted in the background.
Close-up of two people holding hands intimately, wearing casual clothing in grey and white tones.
A black and white close-up of two hands gently clasped together on white bedding.
Two people in matching blue jeans sit on colorful chalk art painted on a city street.
Black and white photo of couple in an intimate moment showing affection, with a cross necklace visible.
A couple walks together on a leaf-covered path surrounded by trees and golden autumn light.
Two people in casual attire hold hands while walking through golden autumn tall grass in a field during sunset.
Couple embraces tenderly in autumn field with tall brown grass during golden hour portrait session.
A couple running and holding hands along a scenic trail through tall grass on an overcast day.
A couple embraces lovingly while sharing a candid moment in a meadow, captured in black and white photography.
A couple embraces in a golden autumn field during sunset with tall grass and warm lighting.
Two people share a tender embrace and smile together in a romantic outdoor autumn setting.
A couple in plaid and lace share an intimate embrace in a wooded forest setting during autumn.
A couple embraces while standing in tall autumn grass on an overcast day.
A tender romantic moment between a couple in casual attire embracing by a rustic wooden structure.

 

What Should You Expect from Your Engagement Session?

 

Black and white photo showing a couple holding hands on stone steps, with a bride wearing a backless white dress.
1. We’ll Keep It Comfortable and Fun


I totally get that being in front of a camera can feel a little awkward at first—especially if this is your first professional session together. That’s why I focus on keeping things light, relaxed, and fun. I’ll guide you through natural poses and prompts that bring out your personalities and connection. Think walking hand-in-hand, stealing kisses, laughing out loud, and maybe even a little dancing.


By the end of the session, you'll both feel like total naturals—and ready to rock your wedding day photos!



2. It’s a Sneak Peek Into Your Wedding Day Experience


One of the best reasons to do an engagement session is that it helps us get to know each other before the big day. You’ll get a feel for how I work, and I’ll learn more about your dynamic as a couple—what makes you laugh, what kind of prompts work best, and how you interact with each other. It’s basically a trial run that sets us up for success when your wedding day comes around.

3. You Get to Make It Yours


Want to include your dog? Let’s do it. Have a favorite date night spot or place that means something to you? I love shooting in locations that tell part of your story. You can keep it casual in jeans and cozy sweaters or dress it up for something romantic and timeless—or bring two outfits and do both!


Need help choosing what to wear? I’ve got a full guide to help with that, too!

4.. It’s One More Memory Together


At the end of the day, your engagement session is about celebrating the love you’ve built together and the journey ahead. It’s a chance to slow down, have fun, and just be together—without the hustle of the wedding day. And the best part? You’ll have these moments captured forever.

A couple embraces in a cozy alley decorated with string lights on a snowy winter evening in an urban setting.

Spoiler: It’s not about stiff poses and forced smiles. It’s about connection, laughter, and capturing you two just as you are.


Here’s what you can expect when you work with me:


Guided posing + real moments – I’ll help you feel comfortable in front of the camera while capturing those sweet, in-between moments.

Fun and laid-back vibes – This is your time to relax, laugh, and just be yourselves.

A chance to build trust – Your engagement session is the perfect time to get to know me, your photographer, before the big day. You’ll feel way more at ease come wedding time.

Final Thoughts

Your engagement session should feel like a fun date — with a camera in tow. Whether we’re exploring downtown streets, hiking to a lookout, or cozying up at your favorite coffee shop, the goal is to capture you in this special season of life.


Ready to plan yours? I’d love to help you choose the perfect location, plan your outfits, and create magic together. Reach out and let’s start dreaming up your session!