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I love engagement sessions. A few years ago, I made the decision to include them with every wedding collection I offer. Why? As a photographer, engagement sessions allow me the opportunity to get to know my couples better. It also allows you guys to relax. Let’s face it, most of us don’t spend much time on the other side of a camera—sure we instagram like its going out of style, but a professional photoshoot can be intimidating. Chill out. No seriously..I’ve got this. This is our time to chat before the wedding day. I’ll make silly jokes, laugh (too loud), ask lots of questions, and snap away. All you have to do is show up, cuddle, and occasionally look my way (I’ll let you know—I promise). Easy as pie.

If you’re anything like me, you probably still have questions. What should I wear? Should I bring something? What about the location? Read below for an in-depth coverage of all your engagement session needs. Still have questions? Comment on this post and I’ll try to answer them in another blog post!

1. Hair & Makeup—Should I have my hair and makeup done? Uhh..why not?! It’s fun, different, and will make you feel super glamorous the day-of. For me, getting my makeup done before photos (helloooo false eyelashes!) makes me more comfortable in front of the camera. It feels amazing and really made a difference for me! Not much of a makeup girl? Try some light matte powder and natural-looking false eyelashes. A little extra goes a long way! Shooting in the heat? Remember to bring a small bag with extra powder, oil wipes, and water. We’re in Alabama guys—this humidity thing is no joke!
2. Nails—Hey lady! So you’re engaged! (Yay) This means I’ll be spending some time getting shots of that gorgeous new ring on your finger. So make sure your hands and nails are clean and well-kept. This can mean a trip to the nail salon or a self-mani at home! (Don’t forget to clean off that ring!)
3. What do I wear?—Wear something that’s YOU—then kick it up a notch. Like dressing up? Find some fabulous shoes and pair them with a new dress. More casual? Try a fitted top with jeans and some cute flats. Don’t be afraid to layer and accessorize. Coordinate your clothes so you’re not clashing, but avoid being that “matchy” couple. Most of my couples bring two outfits—something casual, and something a little dressier! Halfway through our session, we’ll take a break so you guys can change. I love when my couples have two awesome clothing changes—it gives more variety to a single location (ie—more pictures for you).
4. Accessories—This is the fun part! Bowties, headbands, layered bracelets, tights, an awesome new scarf…the sky is the limit! Short on ideas? Head on over to Pinterest—I promise you won’t be for long! (I apologize in advance for the hours you’ll lose time you’ll invest in your searching!)
5. Location—I LOVE when my couples choose their shoot locations. It’s something personal and choosing scenery that works for you will lend a unique perspective to your photos that will make them that much more you. Did you meet in a library? Do you guys go to the same coffee shop every day? Do you love camping? Are you theatre lovers? Baseball fans? Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. I love shooting in all types of locations—cities, parks, romantic fields—I’ve even been found in a parking garage or two!
6. Props—Should I? Of course—if you want to. I can make beautiful images of you with or without props so don’t worry if the idea doesn’t resonate with you. However, I love making images that have something unique and personal to my couples. Think of something you love to do together and take it from there!
7. Time of Day—I try to schedule most of my engagement sessions in late afternoon. Sunset (and the bit before) is known by photographers as “golden hour” because of the warm golden light that falls down. I love the soft light I can get during that time, the warm rich colors, and the variery of light as it goes from full sun to twilight.
8. Timing—Most of my couples choose to shoot their engagement sessions around 6 months prior to the wedding date. This allows us to not only capture a different season than your wedding (offering more variety of images to display in your home), but allows you to plan for fun additions (like save-the-dates)!
9. Relax—Seriously, at this point you’re done planning your session so get some sleep. You do not want tired eyes in your pictures!
10. Enjoy it—Think about it. How often do you get to dress up and spend two hours smiling at each other and kissing, hugging, and giggling? The engagement period is such a special time in your relationship—make the most of it!

And finally, a little preview at an engagement session from this past Saturday!