Here are a few engagement photo tips on how to prepare and feel stress-free leading up to and during your engagement session!

Following these tips will enable you to feel confident and let me tell you, confidence is the best thing you can bring to any session. Feeling like the best version of yourself truly shows up in the photographs.

1. Shop and prepare ahead of time for your engagement photos

Select two outfits

Most of my couples have two outfits for their engagement session. One outfit is normally on the dressier side and one outfit is more relaxed and casual. 

Buy your clothes two weeks in advance

I recommend purchasing your outfits at least two weeks before our session. Picking out your outfits ahead of time allows plenty of time to have any alterations done if needed. Once the outfits are selected, you can start thinking about accessories! 

Steam your clothes a couple of days before

Don’t wait until the day of the session to iron or steam your clothes. Have everything pressed and ready to go at least one day before.

2. Find an outfit with the perfect fit

Ladies, I am as guilty as they come – I love a flowy top! However, in photographs, those flowy tops we love so much aren’t doing us any favors. 

However, there is nothing wrong with tops or dresses that have movement – in fact I encourage it! (Bonus tip: For a more romantic vibe, go for a flowy maxi dress.)  While you are searching for outfits, keep an eye out for something that has a little structure at the waist line.

3. Incorporate neutrals, colors, prints and patterns

I recommend picking two or three neutrals and then (my favorite part) adding in a pop of color that reflects your style or wedding colors. Good neutrals are gray, blue, blush pink and ivory. This is my personal preference, though! If you want multiple vibrant colors, then you do just that! 

Don’t use dizzying patterns

The last note I’d like to add this tip is about pattern and prints. Again, I love them! When picking out an item, be sure that the print or pattern is larger than the size of a quarter. Tight patterns can cause a moiré effect in digital images, and there isn’t an effective way to edit it out. (Type this in Google and you’ll see exactly what I’m talking about.) 

4. Make sure that your hair, makeup, nails and ring are ready for close-ups

Yep, the camera and I will be up close and personal to capture the details. If you are worried about hair and makeup, hire a professional! This can also serve as a great trial run for your wedding day. 

I promise to capture a photo of that ring! The day before or the morning of the shoot is a great time to get a mani & pedi! Who doesn’t love a day getting pampered at the salon?! Also, don’t forget about the ring — almost every jewelry store offers complimentary cleanings.

5. Have fun! Treat it like a date.

Now that you two are all dolled up and ready to go, let’s have fun!  Throughout your session I will place you in the perfect light, teach you posing tricks, and give you directions and cues to capture true expressions!  All you guys have to do is relax, have fun,and be yourselves. Easy peasy! 

Where to find more engagement photo tips

If you’re looking for more engagement photo tips? Follow me on Instagram for insights.