How to Prep for Your Engagement Session

How to Prep for Your Engagement Session

After you’ve picked your outfits (If you missed that post, start here!), the next question is:

“How do we actually prepare for this?”

And the truth is… a little prep goes a long way.

Blake and I learned this the hard way last year. We showed up to our session and within about 60 seconds realized:

• wrong dress shoes
• wrong belt
• no tie

Not exactly the relaxed start we were both hoping for. Oops! So consider this your guide to a smooth, stress-free, fun engagement session. : ) 

Plan Your Outfits Ahead of Time

Try to choose your outfits about a week or two before your session. This gives you time to:

• Order anything you might need 
• Try everything on together
• Make sure it all actually works the way you imagined

One year Blake and I skipped the step of trying things on in advance… we got to our Arizona anniversary session and Blake’s dress shirt… not photo ready. 

Thankfully, we still had our suitcases in the car so we found something that mostly worked, but they’re not my favorite photos. Now we always try things on in advance! 

By doing this a week or two in advance, plenty of time to exchange sizes or try something different if needed. : )  

Do a Final Check Before You Leave

This one matters more than you think. Before you walk out the door, take a few minutes to double check:

• Shoes
• Belt
• Accessories
• Second outfit
• Ring

It might feel like a small step, but trust me… it’s a lot better than realizing something is missing after you’ve already arrived. (Again… speaking from experience. Yikes!)

Leave Early (Earlier Than You Think)

I typically schedule sessions about 1.5–2 hours before sunset for that soft, glowy light.

Which also means… we have a limited window.

Plan to leave 15–20 minutes earlier than you think you need to. This way:

• You’re not rushed
• You have time to park and walk
• We can start right away and make the most of our time

I’ll already be there scouting the location, so once you arrive, we can jump right in. : )

Clean Your Ring

This is a small detail that makes a big difference.

During your session, I love grabbing a few close-up shots of your ring and the cleaner it is, the more it sparkles!

If you can, have it professionally cleaned beforehand or give it a quick clean at home.

Hair & Makeup Tip

If you’re planning to do a hair and makeup trial, try to schedule it on the same day as your engagement session!

It’s the perfect opportunity to:

• See how everything photographs
• Feel a little extra polished
• Make a full date night out of it

After your session, plan a fun date night together! 

Final Thoughts

If you’re feeling a little nervous, that’s completely normal. 🤍

Take a deep breath.

The goal of your engagement session isn’t perfection. It’s to show up, being fully present, and enjoy this really sweet season together.

A little preparation goes a long way… and I’ve got you covered.

Much Love,