How to Prepare for Your Engagement Session: Tips from a Wedding/Elopement Photographer

Your engagement session is more than just a photoshoot—it’s a chance to celebrate your love story in a relaxed and meaningful way. Whether you’re used to being in front of the camera, or feel a little nervous, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. My goal is to create a fun, stress-free experience where you can simply focus on each other while I capture the genuine moments that make your relationship special.

Many couples worry about feeling awkward or not knowing how to pose, but that’s where I come in! I’ll provide gentle direction to help you look and feel your best. Whether you’re laughing, embracing, or simply enjoying a quiet moment together, I’ll document it in a way that feels authentic to you.

This session is also a great opportunity to get comfortable in front of the camera before your wedding day, so when the big day arrives, you’ll feel confident and at ease. No matter your experience level, I’ll ensure you walk away with stunning images that reflect your personalities and love for each other.

A few things we will look into are: locations, outfit planning, timing, hair & makeup, props. and a few more funsies!

1. Choosing the right Location

Your engagement session location should reflect your personalities as a couple. Whether you love the outdoors, appreciate cityscapes, or prefer a cozy, intimate setting, there’s a perfect spot for you!

Meaningful Locations: One of the best ways to make your engagement session feel personal is to choose a location that holds special meaning. Think about:

• Your home or a family property for an intimate, sentimental touch.
• The place where you first met or had your first date.
• A favorite park or hiking trail you love to explore together.
• The city where you’ve built your life as a couple.

Scenic Outdoor Locations: If you love nature (like I do), consider outdoor locations with beautiful backdrops:

• Mississippi – Oak-lined streets, riverfronts, or one of the State Parks, such as Tishomingo State Park
• Tennessee – The rolling hills of the countryside, scenic overlooks, or charming downtowns like Memphis or Nashville. A few of my favorite places are Shelby Farms Park, The Memphis Botanical Garden, and Radnor Lake State Park.
• Illinois – Lakeside views, botanical gardens, or urban rooftops in Chicago or small-town gems. Even though I relocated to Mississippi, I still shoot back home a lot. A few good spots that I adore are Millennium Park, the Chicago Riverwalk, Starved Rock State Park, & Garden of the Gods.

The most important thing is choosing a place where you feel comfortable and where your love story can shine! If you’re unsure, I’m happy to help you pick the perfect spot that matches your vision and personality.

2. Planning your outfits

This is very important. What you wear for your engagement session plays a huge role in the overall look and feel of your photos. The right outfits will not only complement each other but also enhance the location, season, and mood of your session.

Coordinate, Don’t Match– Rather than wearing the exact same colors, aim for a coordinated look with complementary tones. For example:

• Pick a color palette of 2-3 colors that work well together. Earthy tones, neutrals, and soft pastels tend to photograph beautifully.
• If one of you wears a pattern, the other should wear a solid color to avoid clashing.
• Avoid bright neons or extremely bold patterns, as they can be distracting in photos. Unless the neon or bold pattern vibe is what you’re aiming for than disregard this.
• Avoid overly trendy styles that may look outdated in a few years—stick to classic, timeless pieces.
• I also suggest steering clear of clothing with large logos, heavy branding, or overwhelming patterns.

Choose Colors That Suit the Location & Season

• Spring & Summer: Light, airy colors like soft blues, pastels, or floral patterns work well.
• Fall: Warm, rich tones like rust, mustard, deep green, or burgundy complement autumn foliage.
• Winter: Cozy textures and neutral colors like ivory, gray, and deep jewel tones create a romantic, elegant feel.

Dress for Comfort & Confidence

• Please choose outfits that fit well and allow for movement—you’ll be walking, sitting, and possibly even twirling or lifting for fun poses! if you’re wanting to avoid those stiff looking photos that look very posed, this is the best way to do so!
• Avoid anything too tight or restrictive that may require constant adjusting.
• SUPER IMPORTANT FOR MY HEEL WEARING FOLK: If wearing heels, consider bringing a comfortable pair of shoes for walking between locations. No one wants to ruin a beautiful pair of heels walking through grass or all around downtown.

Consider Bringing Two Outfits– A great way to add variety to your engagement photos is by bringing two different looks:

• A dressy option – A long flowy dress, elegant blouse with dress pants, or a tailored suit can elevate the session.
• A casual option – Jeans with a cozy sweater, a sundress, or even something playful like matching denim jackets can add a relaxed, fun vibe.

Hair & Makeup

• If possible, consider getting your hair and makeup professionally done—it can boost confidence and enhance your natural features in photos. Even if you do your own, opt for a polished but natural look, and bring along touch-up items like lipstick, powder, and a hairbrush.

At the end of the day, the most important thing is that you feel like yourselves in what you wear! If you need help choosing outfits, I’m always happy to offer guidance and suggestions.

3. Bring Meaningful Props

Props can add a personal and unique touch to your engagement session, helping to tell your love story in a fun and creative way. While they’re not necessary, the right props can enhance your photos without feeling staged or distracting. Here’s how to choose meaningful items that complement your session.

Incorporate Elements of Your Love Story– Think about props that reflect your relationship, hobbies, or shared experiences. A few ideas I enjoy are:

• A book or journal – If you’re both book lovers, bring your favorite novel or a journal where you’ve written letters to each other.
• A picnic setup – A cozy blanket, a wicker basket, and your favorite snacks can create a romantic, intimate vibe. Plus, who doesn’t want a nice snack while you’re modeling?
• A vintage car or bike – If you have access to a classic car, motorcycle, or bicycle, it can add a timeless and stylish element.
• A meaningful object – A love letter, a framed quote, or something from your first date can be a special touch.

(Please) Bring Your Furry Friend– If you have a dog (like my dogs Sage or Bowser!), including them in your engagement session is a great way to make your photos feel even more personal. A few tips for bringing your pet include:

• Bring a neutral-colored leash or a cute bandana that matches your outfits.
• Have a friend or family member come along to help with pet handling between shots.
• Pack treats and water to keep them happy and engaged.
• You are not limited to bringing a dog. I’m down to hang out with a cool cat, a horse, or whatever pet you want to include in your day. Remember, it’s YOUR shoot.

Props should enhance the session, not overshadow your connection. A few well-chosen items can make a big impact without making the photos feel cluttered. If you’re unsure, bring a couple of options, and I’ll help you decide what will look best in the moment!

Would you like recommendations based on your session’s location and style? I’d love to help personalize your shoot! 😊

4. Final Prep Checklist!

As your engagement session approaches, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience. Use this final checklist to make sure you’re fully ready for your big day!

The Week Before–

Pick & Prep your outfits:

• Try on your outfits together to ensure they complement each other.
• Break in any new shoes to avoid discomfort.
• Gather accessories like jewelry, hats, or layers.

Grooming & Beauty Prep

• Schedule haircuts or trims at least a week in advance (not the day before, in case you need adjustments!).
• If you color your hair, do any touch-ups ahead of time.
• Moisturize your skin and lips to keep them looking fresh.
• Consider professional hair and makeup to enhance your look.
• Grooms: Trim facial hair, clip nails, and use a light moisturizer for a polished look.

Confirm Location & Timing

• Double-check session time and location details with your photographer.
• Consider travel time and any potential traffic delays.
• If shooting outdoors, check sunset times for the best lighting.

Stay Hydrated & Get Rest

• Drink plenty of water to keep skin looking fresh and radiant.
• Get a good night’s sleep before the session to avoid looking tired.

The Day Of–

Pack Essentials:

• A small bag with touch-up items (lipstick, blotting paper, comb/brush, powder).
• Comfortable walking shoes if heading to multiple locations.
• A water bottle to stay hydrated.S
• afety pins, a lint roller, and tissues for quick fixes.
• A jacket or shawl for warmth (especially for fall or winter sessions).

If Bringing a pet:

• Pack a leash, water bowl, treats, and waste bags.
• Bring a friend or family member to help manage your pet between shots.

Relax & Enjoy the Moment!

• Take a deep breath and trust the process—your photographer will guide you!
• Focus on each other rather than the camera.
• Have fun, laugh, and embrace the experience—it will show in your photos!

By following these simple steps, you’ll feel confident, comfortable, and ready to create beautiful, lasting memories. If you have any last-minute questions, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m here to help! 😊

As I’ve mentioned before, your engagement session is more than just a photoshoot—it’s a time to celebrate your love story, create beautiful memories, and get comfortable in front of the camera before your big day. With a little preparation and the right mindset, your session will feel effortless, fun, and truly reflective of who you are as a couple. As a dedicated wedding and elopement photographer serving these vibrant regions, I specialize in creating timeless images that reflect your unique love story.

Whether you’re planning a traditional wedding in Jackson, Mississippi, an intimate elopement in the Smoky Mountains, or a chic ceremony in Memphis, Tennessee, I’m here to provide a seamless and enjoyable photography experience. My goal is to ensure you feel comfortable and natural in front of the camera, regardless of your prior experience.

Ready to preserve these special moments? Contact me today to schedule your engagement session or to discuss your wedding photography needs in Mississippi and Tennessee. Let’s work together to create beautiful memories you’ll cherish forever!