What to Expect at Your Engagement Session (And Why You Don’t Need to Be Nervous!)

It’s totally normal to feel a little nervous about your engagement session—especially if you haven’t had professional photos taken before. But here’s the thing: none of my couples are professional models. We’re just going to hang out, and I’m going to be a very talkative third wheel.

The first 20 minutes? Yeah, they might feel a little awkward. That’s completely normal, because you’re trying something brand new! But trust me—you’ll warm up and get used to the camera faster than you think. I promise.

“Posing” Isn’t What You Think It Is

The number one question I get from couples? “What do we do with our hands?!” And I get it—posing has a bad reputation. It can bring to mind stiff, awkward, and overly staged photos. Instead of “posing,” I like to think of it as direction and prompts—just enough guidance to make sure you feel comfortable without wondering what to do.

My goal is to capture real emotions and natural interactions while giving you just the right amount of direction. Whether that’s playful, romantic, or somewhere in between, it’s all about translating your personality into photos that feel like you. Some of those moments will be clean and crisp, some will be a little messy and blurry, and all of them will be beautiful.

What Kind of Photos You Can Expect

Your engagement session isn’t about stiff poses or forced smiles—it’s about capturing the dynamic, real connection you share. I’ll guide you through a mix of moments, from relaxed portraits to playful interactions, so your photos feel effortless, emotional, and uniquely you. Whether we’re running through the waves, cozied up on a blanket, or sharing a quiet moment as the sun sets, we’ll create a gallery that tells your love story in a way that feels natural and fun. Here’s what you can expect:

Formal Portraits (All Direction)

Think about the traditional smiling photo that your mom is going to hang in the hallway. I’ll guide you with natural, flattering direction to make sure you look and feel your best.

Games (Fun, Silly, and Sweet)

We’ll play tag, have a tickle fight, do a three-legged race, whisper silly things, and talk about your favorite memories together. Whether you’re feeling goofy and loud or flirty and romantic, we’ll have a little bit of everything.

Romantic, Cinematic Moments (Letting You Soak It All In)

When the time is right, we’ll slow things down and let you soak in each other and the nature around us. I’ll step back and give you space while capturing those wide, cinematic shots that feel effortless and timeless.

Activity-Based Sessions (We’re Going on a Date!)

If you want your photos to feel even more personal, let’s incorporate an activity you love. Maybe it’s a picnic on the beach, canoeing on your favorite lake, apple picking on a crisp fall day, or playing records at home. We’ll mix in some candid moments and sprinkle in a few formal portraits for the best of both worlds.

What about candid moments together?

Your engagement session isn’t about documenting an ordinary day—it’s about telling your story in a way that feels real. Yes, I’ll give you prompts to start, but how you interact with each other? That’s all you.

As the session goes on, you’ll loosen up, get more comfortable with me as a third wheel, and all those sweet in-between moments—glances, laughs, kisses—will start to feel totally natural.

Some other directions and prompts I might call out:

Walk away from my camera, and be yourselves. Hug the way you hug, hold hands the way you hold hands, and don’t worry about posing for the camera.

Walk towards me like you’re tipsy leaving the bar and can’t get enough of each other.

Let’s do some piggy back rides, or maybe even hop on some shoulders.

Move around as much as you can without ever letting your hands separate.

Run and jump into each other’s arms like you haven’t seen each other in weeks!

Stand ten feet back from your partner, then sneak up behind them!

Shoulder kisses and cheek kisses are a must.

And of course, the signature champagne pop!

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FAQ: Engagement Session Tips

What should we wear?

I recommend bringing two outfits. One "date night" outfit, think of what you’d actually wear out for a special night. One "casual Saturday" outfit, or something relaxed, like what you’d wear to the farmer’s market or a coffee run together.

Avoid dressing in-between, or it can start feel like a business casual office outfit that you’d wear to a networking event, which isn’t the vibe we’re going for! Here’s my Pinterest board for inspiration, and you can always ask me for help.

What should we bring?

Bring a bag with essentials like a water bottle, accessories, extra layers, comfortable shoes, and touch-up makeup. If you want to include props—like a cozy blanket, champagne, or Polaroids—bring those too!

Any tips if we’re nervous?

A little liquid courage is alright if that’s something you enjoy! Whether it’s a shot of whiskey or a glass of champagne, if that helps loosen you up, go for it. (I’ll even toast right along with you before we start!) If you don’t want a drink, try to do something else that usually calms your nerves. That could be as simple as spending some quality time together going for a walk the morning of our session, or listening to a meditation app or your favorite playlist on the drive to our meet up spot.

When will we get our photos?

Sneak peeks (3-5 images) will be sent the next day via email or text. Your full gallery will be delivered within 30 days of your session. You get to take your Polaroids home the same day!

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, your engagement session is meant to feel fun, relaxed, and natural. You don’t need to be models, you don’t need to “perform,” and you definitely don’t need to stress. I’ll be there to guide you, hype you up, and make sure your photos feel like an effortless reflection of who you are.

Ready to make some magic together? Let’s do this!