You’ve probably noticed an engagement session is strongly suggested with every wedding I photograph…but why? An engagement session not only gives us the opportunity to get to know each other and take some amazing photos, but it also allows us to get rid of the awkwardness of a stranger just showing up on wedding day and saying “I’m here to photograph you for the next eight hours so just act normal.” It breaks the ice if you will. Also, engagement sessions are just down right fun!

I always get a ton of questions about locations for engagement photos, what to wear, how long do they last, etc… so I thought it would be beneficial to share some advice to make the most of your engagement session and find out how they go down.

1. Look Amazing

You want to look HOT in your engagement photos so that gives you permission to go shopping and pick out some new outfits. These photos are documenting the most important time in your life and they are going to last forever. Since they will, you want to make sure you make an extra effort to show your kids (someday) that you were (and always will be) a couple of hotties. I always suggest clients bring at least one change of clothes – – a slightly formal look and a more casual look work best.

2. Wear Fun Accessories

Fun shoes, cool belt buckles, fancy watches, some bling, etc… will show the world just how fabulous you are. Your attitude and personality can come alive in your photos with a few small details; let those accessories help display your sense of style. It’s also a great excuse to splurge on those Manolos you have been dying to put in your closet for years.

3. Locations

I always tell my clients to pick a location that is meaningful to them. Maybe it’s the place you first met, the location of your first kiss or just a great date. On the other side, maybe it’s a brand new place you have never been and want to explore with THIS guy. I’m always up for a road trip so if you have something in mind, let’s chat. I have been known to hop a plane to Orlando and catch a train to New York City just to take engagement photos. The beach is always fun but be sure to think outside the box as well. Engagement sessions usually last about an hour or two depending on the number of locations we visit. Quite often I have clients who want to do multiple locations which is cool, depending on their proximity to each other and if we can fit it in the time allotted.

4. Props

There is nothing better than a client who brings props to their engagement session. It could be a cool hat, fun save the date signs, a surfboard, or an antique car that belongs to your father. The sky is the limit so be creative and have fun with them.

5. Show Off Your Grill

An engagement session shouldn’t be stuffy and serious so bust out that smile and show it off. I love capturing candid photos of clients smiling at each other; it really shows how much fun you are having and your love for each other.

6. The Eyes

I always focus my camera on your eyes and you definitely want to make sure they pop. Take those few extra minutes to doll yourself up. If you have an opportunity, you might consider having your makeup done professionally. This could be a great trial run for your makeup artist for the wedding to see how it will look and last for the big day.

7. Have Fun

I’ve said this a bunch of times but plan on having fun! The engagement session is all about you and your love story. Just have a good time, relax, be in love and I will take care of the rest. If you’re still uncertain, be sure to browse through my blog and check out what other clients have done for their sessions.