Engagement Session Guide: What to Wear, What to Bring, and How to Have a Blast in Front of the Camera
Let’s be real—posing in front of a camera can feel weird. You’re excited about your engagement photos, but maybe a little nervous too. What should you wear? What if you’re awkward? What if your partner hates taking pictures? You’re not alone—almost every couple I photograph feels the same way at first. That’s why I created this guide. Think of it like your pre-game playbook. I’m not here to just snap photos—I’m here to help you feel relaxed, confident, and actually enjoy the process (yes, really). Whether you’re planning an outdoor adventure, a cozy in-home session, or a chic downtown shoot, I’ve got you covered with real, practical tips—no fluff, no awkward prom poses, just good vibes and great photos.
What to Wear: Outfits That Work on Camera
Your outfits don’t need to be Pinterest-perfect—they just need to reflect you and photograph well. Here are a few tips:
Coordinate, don’t match – Choose complementary colors and styles. Think soft neutrals, muted tones, or pops of color that don’t clash.
Dress for movement – Flowing dresses, layered textures, or cozy sweaters photograph beautifully.
Avoid big logos or busy patterns – They can distract from your connection.
Bring options – Two outfits are ideal: one casual, one slightly dressier.
Bonus tip: Dress for the setting. Urban shoot? Go sleek. Forest or field? Think romantic or earthy.
Also, don’t forget to dress in a way that makes you feel confident. If you’re uncomfortable in what you’re wearing, it’ll show in your body language—and that’s what really translates in photos. Whether it’s your favorite leather jacket, a great pair of boots, or that sweater your partner always compliments, go with what feels like you.
One more thing: If you’re debating whether to buy something new or wear something you already own, comfort always wins. Confidence looks great in every light.
What to Bring: The Session Survival Kit
Showing up prepared means less stress and more fun. Here’s what I recommend bringing:
Touch-up essentials – Lip balm, powder, a hairbrush, bobby pins
Comfy shoes – Even if you start in heels, bring a walkable backup
Water and snacks – Especially for longer sessions or warm days
Personal touches – A blanket, your dog, a picnic basket, or something meaningful to your relationship
Good Mood – Okay, not packable… but absolutely essential!
Don’t underestimate the power of the little things. For example, if your partner gets hangry, a granola bar could literally save the vibe. If you’re doing a shoot in nature, bug spray might be your best friend. Thinking a few steps ahead makes the experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Bonus if you bring props or items that tell a story about your relationship. Skateboards? Great. Matching mugs? Love it. That inflatable pizza slice you won on a date? Sure, why not.
How to Make It Fun (Even If You Hate Being Photographed)
You don’t need to be a model. I promise. My job is to guide you and create space for real moments—ones you’ll actually want to remember. Here’s how we’ll keep it light:
Movement > Posing – I’ll give prompts that spark laughter, cuddles, or playful moments—not stiff “say cheese” poses
We’ll chat, not perform – I’ll guide gently and naturally, so it feels more like a fun conversation than a shoot
We’ll pick a location that feels right for you – Whether it’s your favorite coffee shop, a field at sunset, or downtown at night, this is about your story
Your comfort is the priority – Nervous? Great. That means you care, and I’ve got you
Some of the best moments happen in between the poses. That soft laugh after an inside joke. The look they give you when you brush a leaf out of their hair. These are the moments you’ll treasure years from now—and they can’t be forced. So relax, be yourself, and I’ll take care of the rest.
Location Tips: Choose a Spot That Feels Like You
Picking the right location can make a huge difference in how your photos feel. Do you want an urban, stylish look? Or something natural and serene? Maybe you love bookstores, cafes, or even your own backyard. I always encourage couples to choose a place that reflects their personality, not just what looks good on Instagram.
Here are a few popular engagement session location types:
Nature/outdoors: Fields, forests, lakesides, or beaches
Urban: Downtown, rooftop parking garages, artsy districts
Sentimental: Where you had your first date, proposal spot, or your home
Destination: Travel to a favorite town, park, or city for something unique
Not sure where to go? I’ve got a list of tried-and-true local Dallas-Fort Worth spots and a few DFW hidden gems I love shooting at. Just ask!
Final Thoughts: You Don’t Need Perfect—You Just Need Real
Here’s the thing: You don’t need to fake anything. Not your laugh, not your smile, and definitely not your relationship. You already have the connection—my job is to help you relax, be yourselves, and make that connection visible in a way that feels real.
I've photographed couples who were super shy, couples who joked the whole time, and even couples who brought their dogs, beers, or hot sauce collections to the shoot (true story). You don’t need to fit into a mold—just bring your energy, your story, and your person. I’ll bring the camera and a few bad jokes.
And if all else fails, remember: this is supposed to be fun. It’s not about getting every hair perfectly in place, it’s about freezing a moment that already matters. A good engagement session feels more like a mini-adventure together, with a bunch of candid laughs and unexpected moments along the way.
Let’s make this session feel like you. Loud or quiet, playful or romantic, whatever your style is, we’ll capture it beautifully. And when you look back at your photos, I want you to remember how fun it felt just being together. That’s the kind of memory worth keeping.
