A lot of couples ask me this question: why do I need an engagement session? I’ve broken down the 3 key reasons why engagement sessions are so important and included some fun tips as well! 

1. It’s A Great Way To Practice

Interacting in front of the camera and working with your photographer is not second nature for most couples. So, getting to know your photographer before the day can cut out any awkwardness you might start out with. We get to see your best angles and those little quirks that show your personality. I also think it’s a great time to show grooms that photos aren’t so scary!

2. You Can Have A Completely Opposite Location From Your Wedding Venue

You can do a session in the mountains if you are having a DC location. Or if you have a winery wedding, you can do your engagement session in the heart of the city. One of my favorite options for engagement sessions is a destination engagement session. Many of my couples are getting married in DC, but don’t live locally. We can travel to do your engagement session where you met as a special way to honor that part of your life!

3. You Can Use The Photos

Save the dates, wedding websites and guest books all look great featuring a few photos from your engagement shoot! Using these photos is a great way to give guests a preview into what your wedding style is and what kind of event they can expect! Plus photo save the dates are great keepsakes for your friends and family!

Engagement Photo FAQ!

Do I need hair and makeup?

I always recommend hair and makeup for engagement sessions because for better or worse it tends to make people feel more confident in a very vulnerable/awkward situation. It’s also a great way to test out your hair and make-up trial for the wedding day. Eyelashes are my favorite!

What time of day should we shoot?

My absolute favorite time of day to do engagement sessions is about 1-2 hours before sunset. You get that golden light, smaller crowds, and in the summer, usually milder temperatures!

My most commonly asked question: WHAT TO WEAR?

One or two outfits is plenty. Engagement session day is the time to have fun with it. Play up your individual style and just be you! I love long dresses or skirts with movement. It’s a great idea to do one ‘dressier’ outfit and then a more casual outfit. 

What if we are completely lost on what to wear, what he should wear, should we match?

We are always happy to help styling your engagement session. We can set up a styling consultation, where we talk about your styles. Do you like color, or more muted tones? Are there any cuts you find most flattering? Are there colors or fabrics you absolutely stay away from? From there we can help suggest various outfits. We can send you outfit inspiration through Pinterest that you can replicate yourselves or even exact links to outfits that are within a budget that you choose. 

Engagement sessions should be fun! The main thing is just getting to know your photographer and having fun with it! I want you to have a blast practicing fun poses and expressing your couple style! You’ll get some great shots to use for your invitations and/or save the dates, and I’ll get to know your best angles for your big day! Contact me here and lets chat!