Congrats, you're engaged! You might be thinking, now what? Before diving into the wedding planning process, I suggest you take a moment to truly celebrate this exciting time! What are some things you love to do together? How did you meet? Special memories like these and your relationship right now deserves to be captured. So I’ve put together these 8 simple tips to prepare you with everything you need to know to have an amazing engagement session. Be sure to share these with your hubby so he can know what to expect and really enjoy this time too!

1. BE OPEN 

Is this your first photoshoot? Good! Believe it or not, it is better if you've never had your photos professionally taken before. Why? Because that means you can show up with an open mind, free of any pre-conceived ideas of how you should act, or how the session is "supposed" to go. Your only job is to follow along and go with the flow, I'll do the rest. So whether this is your first time, or not, it's best to let loose, be open for anything, and have fun!

2. DON'T HOLD BACK

Show me you! As obvious as this sounds, it can be tough at first. Try not to stress about this at the beginning of your photoshoot while we are still getting to know each other. Naturally as we go on, you'll find yourself warming up to the camera and able to show more of your natural smile, laughter, and quirkiness. I will be there to encourage these moments, but it's ultimately up to you how much you allow yourself to open up and express the love you share together. Think about the uniqueness of your relationship and your favorite things about each other. That's what you want to see when you look back at your photos.

3. DRESS LIKE YOURSELF

Believe it or not, you don't have to feel pressured to buy a brand new outfit or wear high heels if that's not your thing. Instead, focus on wearing clothing that compliments your best features and truly makes you feel your best. You also don't want your man to look back at the photos and see those khaki pants he wore but actually didn't like. (been there done that!) What is important, is to have the color of your outfits compliment each other and the surroundings. Neutral, earth tones work best in all environments. Things to avoid would be solid bright colors and clothing with visible logos and wording. If you want pops of bright color, make it an accent to your outfit with things like shoes, jewelry, or smaller accessories. I recommend bringing two outfits to your session: a favorite dressy outfit to start, and a nice casual outfit to end the evening.

4. CHOOSE AN ENVIRONMENT THAT FITS YOU

Are you spontaneous and adventurous? Pick somewhere you've never been and would love to go! Is there a cozy spot where you've shared special memories together? Let's go there! Whether it's at a coffee shop, or exploring outdoors, it's definitely not all about the location. It's all about choosing somewhere that will spark the excitement, joy, and love in both of you. 

5. SAVE THE ENTIRE DAY FOR YOURSELVES

You're not going to be all smiles and laughter if you're stressed and overworked from a long day. Use the day of your photoshoot to have completely to yourselves. Photoshoots typically start two hours before sunset, so wake up slow, enjoy this time together and relax. Check out a new restaurant or watch the sunset afterwards. This is the time to celebrate your love, and to capture you on your best day, so show up feeling good!

6. FORGET EVERYTHING YOU KNOW ABOUT PHOTOGRAPHY

Remember, this photoshoot isn't for me, it's for you! We aren't doing this to re-create some other couple's photos on Pinterest, or to fake any premeditated poses. This is about a very special moment in your life and documenting it for you to cherish and remember for years to come. It's very likely that just the idea of photography and having your photo taken brings up some uncomfortable memories from grade school, or even high school prom. I can promise you that this will be nothing like that! So forget about any thoughts you've had before about photography and focus on enjoying the evening together.

7. EMBRACE SPONTANEOUS MOMENTS

I love nothing more than photographing all the moments in between. So if your hair blows in your face and gets a little messy, go with it! If you love to be barefoot, then take off your shoes. Embrace what makes you happy and feel free. If it starts to rain, expect to have the most fun you've ever had in the rain. Yes, I'm talking about even the weather! Embrace every element of surprise and make the most of it together.

8. ARRIVE WITH NOTHING BUT LOVE 

This is the easy part! Leave your bags in the car, and be light on your feet (unless you want your furry friend to come along, then I'm all for that!) The only thing you need to be holding during the engagement session is each other. If you insist on using any signs or props- bring one at the very most, and we will get that photo done first. Because really, nothing can express your love better than yourselves. The sooner you can get to cuddling, laughing, and looking into each other's eyes- the sooner we can capture the real, authentic moments that you want to relive forever. 

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