ENGAGEMENT SESSION PREP GUIDE

This guide is here to help you prepare; everything from styling tips to what to expect, so you can show up feeling confident and ready. A little prep makes all the difference in creating photos that you'll be proud of, and that feel authentic to you.

Engagement
Session Prep
Guide

A Note From Me

The Reason Behind the Engagement Session

Your engagement session isn’t just about pretty photos (though you’ll definitely get those!); it’s about celebrating this season of your life, creating and capturing memories you'll cherish for decades to come, and giving us a chance to get comfortable working together before the wedding day. To a degree, this session acts as a little trial run so that by the time your wedding arrives, being in front of my camera will feel natural and fun.

1.) What to Expect

The Session, and After

1.) Arrival
Meet me at the location we’ve chosen at your scheduled time. If you’re running late, can’t find me, or need to reach me for any reason, just shoot me a text at 512-831-1900.

2.) During Your Session
I’ll guide you through everything; poses, prompts, and candid moments. The session usually lasts about an hour (and trust me, it’ll fly by!).

3.) Gallery Delivery
I edit and deliver engagement sessions quickly! Within 1 week, you’ll receive an email with a link to your completed online gallery. From there, you can download your images, share them with friends and family, and order prints through any lab of your choice, or directly through the professional lab connected to your gallery for convenience. Be sure to check your spam if you don't see the email after a week has passed, sometimes they like to end up in there!

WHAT THE SESSION WILL feel LIKE

I know most couples step into this a little nervous, but take a deep breath, because you don’t need to know a single thing about posing, or how to act in front of the camera. Almost all of my couples have never done anything like this before (you’re definitely not alone!), and it’s never an obstacle to getting beautiful photos.

You can expect me to fully guide you throughout the session. I’ll tell you exactly what to do with your hands, how to stand, and give you prompts that feel natural and fun. Even the candid, connection-filled moments you see in my work are shaped by gentle direction, so you never have to guess what comes next. I avoid pushing you too far out of your comfort zone, too, we'll just play around and I'll figure out what captures you best!

All you need to do is show up, focus on each other, and let me handle the rest. By the end, you’ll probably be surprised at how relaxed and easy it all feels.

THE FLOW OF YOUR SESSION

Easing In: We’ll start with simple prompts and easy poses to help you warm up. No pressure, no stiff smiles, I like to keep you moving fluidly from one pose to the next so that you don't have time to feel awkward or overthink things. From there, I'll be getting a feel for your dynamic, comfort level, and unspoken cues to keep my prompts and posing in line with your individuality. In other words: I won't be forcing you to do anything that you don't want to do, this is all customized to you.

Lots of Movement: Expect some walking, snuggling, sitting, maybe a little running if it makes sense in the moment and with your style and personalities. Movement brings out natural laughter and connection, so don’t worry about “doing it right.” I like to tell people to imagine that we're filming little video clips, rather than taking still photos!

Tailored to You: Some couples are naturally higher energy, and some are more calm and composed, and everything in between. My goal is never to force you to act a certain way, but to see you both for who you are as individuals and as a couple, and capture that in a way that doesn't feel forced.

2.) Why Your Outfits Matter

Styling Advice

What you wear makes a huge difference in how your photos look and feel. The outfits you choose don’t just show off your style; they set the entire tone of the session. For example, if you arrive in sleek, modern, more formal outfits, I’ll naturally guide your posing in a more editorial, fashionable direction. On the other hand, if you show up in jeans and a casual top, the session will lean more playful, relaxed, and candid.

One or Two Outfits

Because of this, many couples choose to bring two looks; one more classic or formal, and another that’s fun and casual. so we can capture both sides of your story. That said, two outfits definitely aren’t required, and plenty of couples stick to one look they feel amazing in. The most important thing is that your outfits reflect you. Just keep in mind that if you do bring an outfit change, you may need to change in your car if there is no bathroom available.

WHAT tends TO PHOTOGRAPH WELL

Think of these as design tips rather than hard rules; guidelines that can help your photos feel polished and timeless. That said, the most important thing is that you feel confident and comfortable. If you love a bold print or a pop of color, go for it! Sometimes breaking the “rules” is what makes your photos uniquely yours.

Color Palette: Soft, neutral, and muted tones (like blush, sage, dusty blue, ivory, or tan) often photograph beautifully and let the focus stay on you. But if a bold or bright color feels like “you,” it can absolutely work too.

Coordination vs. Matching: Outfits that complement each other in style and color tend to look cohesive without being overly matchy.

Texture & Layers: Pieces with flow, structure, or texture — like flowy dresses, cozy knits, or a layered jacket, add depth and interest on camera.

Patterns & Prints: Subtle patterns (like a delicate floral or thin stripes) are usually easier for the eye, but if you love a bolder print, own it! It can add a lot of personality.

Shoes & Practicality: Choose footwear that looks great and works for where we’re shooting. We might be on grass, gravel, or a dirt path, so comfort and practicality matter too.

Need some styling inspo?

Check out my pinterest board of engagement style ideas here!

Rules Are Made to be Broken

At the end of the day, your outfits should reflect who you are as a couple. These tips can help guide you, but feeling like yourselves is what makes the photos shine.

all in the details

The little things might not feel important at first, but they’re what help take your photos from “cute snapshots” to polished, professional, and timeless. Paying attention to small details like nails, hair, and comfort can make all the difference in how confident you feel and how your final gallery looks.

Nails Matter: Whether you go all out with a manicure or just give them a quick tidy, make sure your nails are presentable. Hands sneak into more close-ups than you’d think! Grooms aren’t off the hook here either. Clean, trimmed nails are a must, since his hands might end up on her cheek, around her waist, or holding her hand close to the camera.

Hair & Weather: Keep the conditions in mind when planning your hairstyle. Windy days can make some styles tricky, hot weather can weigh hair down or make long waves stick to your skin, and humidity can cause frizz that I can’t edit out. If you color your hair, remember that grown out roots can show more in photos. Guys, a fresh haircut goes a long way too.

Comfort = Confidence: Choose outfits that you feel comfortable moving, sitting, and walking in; from every angle (front, side, and back.). If there’s a part of your body you feel self-conscious about, dress in a way that makes you feel secure. When you aren’t worried about holding in your stomach or keeping your arms in a certain position, you’ll naturally relax, and that’s when the most genuine, beautiful photos happen.

Empty Your Pockets: Phones, wallets, and keys can show through in photos, even if they don’t feel bulky. You can slip them in a bag and set it down nearby if we aren't in a area with crowds, or I've been known to carry around MANY client's phones and keys in my crossbody bag until the session is over when asked!

Lint & Wrinkles: A quick once-over with a lint roller and a steam/iron before you head out makes a world of difference in how put-together you look.

Accessories Count: Simple, timeless jewelry and watches photograph beautifully, while anything too chunky or flashy can take focus away from your faces.

Subtle Makeup Touches: If you’re wearing makeup, a little powder to reduce shine or a lipstick touch-up before and during the session isn't a bad idea (And grooms, chapstick is your friend too!)

3.) Flexibility & Rescheduling

What if you're sick? What if it rains?

Life happens, and I completely understand. The cool thing about the engagement session is, unlike the wedding, if you need to reschedule for any reason—whether you’re sick, had a hair fail, or just not feeling like yourselves that day for some reason...please don’t hesitate to reach out. I won’t be upset, I promise! My goal is always to capture you at your best, and if that means waiting for another day, it’s worth it. While my calendar is limited and I ask that you try to keep your original date if possible, I also do my best to be flexible because I’d much rather reschedule than have you show up not feeling your best.

The same goes for weather – if it looks like the day isn’t going to cooperate, I’ll reach out to you ahead of time so we can make a call together and decide if rescheduling is the best option. We CAN shoot in the rain with umbrellas if you want to, but I have a strict policy against shooting outdoors in lightning.

4.) Final Tips

A Few More Thoughts

Fuel Up First

Make sure you eat a little something before your session. You’ll want the energy, but keep it light so you don’t feel weighed down.

Liquid Courage?

I’ve heard through the grapevine that some couples take a quick shot together beforehand if they’re extra nervous. Not that I’m officially encouraging it, but it does seem to work for some.

Bringing Your Pup

I love including dogs in engagement sessions. Just be sure to bring a friend or family member who can hang out with them once we’ve gotten a few photos, since they won’t be in every shot.

Be Prepared for Heat

If it’s going to be hot, bring a bottle of water and something to blot sweat with, like a handkerchief or oil blotting sheets. Staying comfortable makes all the difference.

The Most Important Thing

Focus on each other and enjoy the time together. Those in-between moments, when you’re laughing, whispering, or just being yourselves, are the ones that make your photos truly special.

SEE YOU SOON!

I hope this guide leaves you feeling excited and prepared for your session. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection, it’s connection. These photos are about celebrating your story and the season you’re in right now. Show up ready to relax, laugh, and enjoy being together, and I’ll take care of the rest. I can’t wait to spend this time with you and capture the moments that will mean so much years down the road.

– Harper