Engagement Shoots: What to Expect and How to Prepare
What to Expect and How to Prepare
So, you’ve booked an engagement shoot—or you're thinking about it—and wondering what it’s actually like? Totally normal. Whether you’ve never been professionally photographed before or just want to make sure you’re prepped, this guide will walk you through what to expect and how to make the most of your session.
📸 Why Engagement Sessions Matter
An engagement shoot isn’t just about getting pretty pictures (though, yes, we’ll definitely get those!). It’s a laid-back way for us to get to know each other before the wedding, help you feel more relaxed in front of the camera, and celebrate this sweet in-between chapter of your story.
Plus, you’ll end up with beautiful, meaningful photos you can use for your save-the-dates, wedding website, or just frame around the house. (Jenna and Raphael actually used one of their shots on the welcome sign at their wedding—and it looked amazing.)
🗓️ What to Expect: Before, During & After
Before the Shoot:
We’ll start by picking a location that feels like you. Whether it’s a trail you hike together, the coffee shop where you had your first date, or just somewhere with dreamy light—we’ll find the perfect spot. I’ll also help you choose the best time of day (hint: golden hour is where the magic happens), and walk you through outfit ideas.
Before Jenna and Raphael’s shoot, we chatted through a few location options before settling on a cozy coastal spot that matched their low-key, romantic vibe. They even brought along their pup, Leo, which made the session even more them.
During the Shoot:
This is the fun part—and I promise it’s not as awkward as it might seem. You don’t need to know how to pose or act a certain way. I’ll give you gentle direction and prompts to help you feel comfortable, but the goal is to keep things relaxed and authentic.
We’ll chat, walk around, laugh a lot—and I’ll capture the real moments in between. For example, with Jenna and Raphael, some of my favorite photos happened in the quiet moments, like when they were just wrapped up in a hug watching the waves.
Want to do an outfit change? Totally fine! A mix of casual and a little dressy is always a great move.
After the Shoot:
Within a few days, I’ll send over some sneak peeks (because I know waiting is the hardest part!). Your full gallery will be ready in about 2–3 weeks, delivered via an online gallery where you can download, share, and even order prints.
💡 How to Prepare: A Few Favorite Tips
Wear What Feels Like You
Choose outfits that feel natural and comfortable. You’ll look best when you feel confident.Coordinate, Don’t Match
Go for colors and styles that complement each other, rather than being too matchy-matchy.Add Something Personal
A blanket, your dog, a bottle of bubbly, or even a favorite book—anything that brings a little you into the shoot.Hair & Makeup Trial? Go for It.
If you’re doing a trial for your wedding day look, your engagement session is the perfect time to test it out.Let Go and Have Fun
Some of the best moments are unplanned. Laugh, play, be yourselves—that’s where the magic is.
🌿 Final Thoughts
Engagement sessions are one of my favorite parts of the wedding journey. It’s just the two of you, soaking it in, celebrating this time together. No pressure, no timelines—just love, real and simple.
If you're ready to book or have questions, I’d love to hear from you. And if you're curious what an engagement shoot looks like, check out Jenna and Raphael’s gallery—it’s full of cozy vibes, soft light, and sweet little moments that tell their story.