Tips to nail your dream engagement sesson

Good Photos come from good planning: heres a guide to nail that dream session

so You’re getting your photos taken and If you're anything like me, that sentence alone makes you feel panicky, excited, full of anxiety and Suddenly you’re wondering:Do I look weird when I laugh? Should I bring props? Do I need to lose five pounds by next week?

Let me stop you right there. take a breath. The pressure to look perfect is Exhausting so why not take pictures with the purpose of simply capturing memories? And besides (spoiler alert) the magic isn’t in perfection. it’s in the real-raw moments. The belly laughs, the crinkly-nose grins, the slightly chaotic windblown moments. That’s where the gold is. I’m not here to give you a list of rigid rules. I’m here to help you show up as your most comfortable, love-filled, and let’s-just-do-this selves. So here’s a little guide to help you prep with intention—and zero stress.

1. Overshare, Please

share your story. your thoughts. your feelings. Your weird inside jokes. better yet, don’t tell me… tell it to your person. the more vulnerable you are, the better I can capture you as who you really are as a couple. You don’t have to spill your soul but be open to having those deep conversations. meaningful words bring out expressions and expression is what we want! Remember those ugly-laughs, soft glances, and quiet in-between moments you have when no one’s watching? That’s what I want to see. thats what my camera captures. Don’t hide the good stuff.

2. Dress Like You, Not a Pinterest Board

The best outfit is the one you feel good in. Simple as that.
Skip the matchy-matchy vibes and go for coordinated instead. Think: harmony, not uniform. No need to “dress up” unless that feels like you. Your style is already perfect for this. Bonus tip: if you wouldn't wear it to hang out with friends, maybe skip it for the shoot. if you’re completely stuck, heres my personal RECOMMENDATION: wear something flowy, earth toned, and something you can move around in. my editing style works best with these!

3. Redirecting the objective

remember… You're not here for me, I'm here for you.
you don’t have to show up trying to “perform” for the camera. The goal shouldn’t be a highlight capture of pretty pictures (at least not initially); it’s more about capturing this beautiful stage in your life. imperfections and all. We’re not doing your typical posey family shoot or when life touch comes to school on picture day energy. We’re documenting your connection. Your love. Your messy, beautiful story. try your best to forget about even taking photos and focus on how much you love each other. I’ll take care of the rest.

4. Give the Day Some Breathing Room

i don’t know about you but after a long day of work and running errands, i don’t feel my cutest.so if it was up to me, I’d take the day off. Sleep in. Grab tacos. Get a little buzzed. Smoke a little somethin’ (responsibly). Do whatever you two do that makes you feel connected and at ease. That way, when we meet for the shoot, you’re showing up relaxed, full of love, and not frazzle dazzled. let me capture you on your best day!

5. Be Your (Weird, Wonderful) Selves

I know… “just be yourself” sounds like a corny motivational poster, but seriously: don’t force it.
If you're goofballs, be goofballs. If you’re spontaneous or quiet and tender, lean into that. Don’t try to mimic what you think a session should look like. instead focus on how your should feel like. Let your dynamic lead the way. Spoiler: the outtakes? Usually are the best takes.

6. Choose a Place That Feels Like You

Yes, pretty locations help but meaningful ones matter more. keep in mind that the setting will affect your mood and the mood of the photos drastically.So make sure you’re both surrounded by what you love!
Whether it’s your cozy home, a windswept mountain top, or that diner where you had your first date. pick a place where you feel like yourselves. A beautiful photo means nothing if you feel stiff or out of place.

7. Embrace the Chaos

Hair gets messy. Dresses get dusty. and Sometimes it rains.
Let it. Some of the most honest, joy-filled photos happen when you stop fighting the imperfect moments. Windy hair is romantic. Muddy shoes mean you adventured. Don't pause for perfection—lean into whatever happens.

8. Travel Light

Skip the big bags and bring just the essentials (if anything).
Props and extra gear can weigh us down, literally and creatively. Let’s keep things fluid so we can chase the light, climb a rock, dance in a field—you get the idea. Freedom = better photos.

9. Bring the Beats

A playlist is the unofficial third wheel of a great session.
Throw on some songs that make you feel like you. Music loosens us up and helps you drop into the moment. If dancing is your thing, hell yeah! If swaying and cuddling is more your speed—still a win. and if you don’t have a playlist in motion, thats okay! i never get tired of ariana grande!

No couple is the same—and I wouldn’t want you to be.
There’s no mold to fit, no script to follow. I’ll meet you exactly where you are and guide you through this in a way that feels natural, comfortable, and real. Trust the process. Let go of the pressure.

And most importantly—just have a damn good time.