choosing the perfect time, location, outfit & more!
ENGAGEMENT SESSION
PLANNING YOUR
I am so excited to be working with you and can't wait for our time together during your engagement session! It's normal to be a little nervous about your session. I always tell people that I still get nervous before having my photo taken - and I do this for a living!
I'm a big fan of engagement sessions for a few reasons. First, they allow you to get comfortable in front of the camera. It takes time for most couples to warm up to being photographed and understand how I pose. Timelines can be pretty tight on wedding days and 30 minutes may be all we have for portraits - which is why I've found that wedding day portraits turn out so much better when couples do engagement sessions with me ahead of time.
Second, you can showcase your personalities in a more casual setting that is significant to the two of you (and even include pets!). While they're great for save-the-dates, I've taken engagement photos anywhere from 18 months in advance to a few days before the wedding.
There is a lot to think about when it comes to planning a session and since I get asked the same things over and over again, I thought it would be the most beneficial to put it all into a guide that walks you through everything you need to know.
I'll cover what to wear, whether to bring pets & how to manage them, location ideas & more!
xoxo, reagan
WElcome
THE GUYS
I get it. Having your picture taken for 1-2 hours might not be in your top-10 favorite things to do during your downtime. And at first you might feel sort of awkward being in front of the camera.
But I think you'll find that by the end of the session, it's a lot easier than you thought, and you even had a little fun. I look forward to it because it's a great opportunity for us all to hang out a bit before the wedding day.
a note to
"GOOD" TIME TO TAKE PHOTOS?
Engagement sessions can take place anywhere from immediately following a proposal to just a few days before the wedding. I've found that there isn't a "good" or "bad" time to take your photos. I normally plan sessions based on particular vibe a couple has in mind, spring flowers for example, or based on schedules.
Sessions typically last about an hour and a half and when we can - I love to begin sessions about two hours before sunset. I prefer to shoot when the sun is lower in the sky to avoid harsh shadows and bright sun patches. The first two hours after sunrise is also an ideal time to shoot.
I schedule sessions during what I believe will be the best light of the day - which means that it's super important to be on time. If you're late to an evening session, we could run out of light before we've finished shooting and if your session takes place in the morning, the sun gets more harsh as it rises.
TIME & LIGHT: IS THERE A
SEASONS
While I shoot most engagement sessions between April and late November, sessions can take place all year. Most of my couples choose a season based on the location where they want to shoot.
A few things to keep in mind during each season:
If you're planning to take your engagement photos during the winter, keep in mind that if your session takes place in the evening, we could begin shooting as early as 3:00pm to catch the sunset. I recommend dressing in layers so that in between photos you can warm up. Make sure you bring a little extra makeup and tissues in case your nose begins running.
winter
snowfall, hot cocoa and cozy coats
Despite the intense Texas heat, I'm a big fan of summer sessions! Because of the later sunset, sessions sometimes begin as late as 6pm. If you're taking your engagement photos during the summer, I recommend bringing extra makeup and a few towels to make sure you stay fresh throughout your session.
summer
warm sunny skies and lush greenery
SAVE-THE-DATES
If your wedding is local, save the dates should be sent between 6 and 8 months before the wedding. For a destination wedding within the states, you'll want to send them out 8 to 10 months before the wedding. For an international destination wedding, you will want to consider sending save the dates as much as 9 to 12 months in advance.
If you're hoping to use your engagement photos for your save the dates, I recommend scheduling your session at least two months before you plan to send out your save the dates. Between inclement weather, editing, designing your save the dates and printing, two months is generally a safe amount of time to make sure your images and cards are ready.
LOCATIONS
One of my favorite ways to plan an engagement session is creating a date night. Think of an activity you like to do as a couple, maybe something that the two of you like to do together, such as golfing, or a favorite food you like to eat together, like pizza and wine. Not only does this make your engagement session feel less like posing for a camera, but it also showcases what makes your love story unique.
The best session locations are often meaningful places to the couple; however, I'm also happy to make recommendations. From ski slopes to lavender fields to apple picking and college campuses the options for engagement session locations are endless!
DALLAS-FORT WORTH, TEXAS
visit my location guide for beautiful recommendations, but remember, these are only suggestions - I love exploring meaningful locations with my couples!
destination
ENGAGEMENT
SESSIONS
While the majority of engagement sessions are local, if you have a location in mind that is significant to the two of you or you simply want an adventure, let me know! If our schedules align, let's pack our bags and go explore!
Travel fees may apply depending on the location and my availability.
PETS
I love when couples choose to incorporate pets into their session. Keep in mind that bringing a pet along often means that we'll need to choose a pet friendly location.
I recommend planning for your pet to be at the first part of your session and then either dropping them off or having a friend or family member take them home. We won't use the pet in every single photo so it's also nice to have a friend or family member available to hold him or her in between shots.
If you're going to bring a pet, I recommend exercising your pet before the session and bringing your pets favorite toy or treats! Depending on your pet's fur type, it might also be a good idea to groom them before the shoot or bring a lint roller to your session.
OUTFITS
When picking outfits I recommend keeping in mind the word "complement" rather than "match". For example, if the groom-to-be is wearing a blue and pink pastel plaid shirt, the bride-to-be may want to choose a long, soft blue dress. It can also be a great idea to choose "color-families", such as pastels or jewel tones.
Generally couples pick two outfits for an engagement session: a more formal outfit and a casual outfit. I recommend saving your favorite outfit for later in the session, when couples generally feel more comfortable in front of the camera. And don't forget to bring a few accessories! Statement necklaces, cute shoes and classic watches are great ways to add detail to outfits.
TIPS FOR LOOKING YOUR BEST
for everyone
for the ladies
for the gents
WARDROBE TIPS
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
OUTFITS
WHERE TO SHOP
CHOOSING OUTFITS
When picking outfits, a good rule of thumb is pick 3 or so colors and spread them throughout your attire. Don't be afraid to mix a few subtle patterns or textures (such as linen).
Keep the location in mind. If we're shooting in a green field, light green dresses might blend in too much with the surroundings.
Always remember, complement each other, rather than match. Subtle variety is good and flows nicely throughout your images.
for everyone
for the ladies
WARDROBE TIPS
Heels lengthen legs but if your heels aren't comfortable for walking or we'll be in grass, bring an extra pair of shoes to slip into between shots.
We love the way larger patterns and textures photograph - just be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photo look a little too busy.
Softer, pastel colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin.
for the ladies
accessories
ACCESSORIES
Statement jewelry is a great way to add color or pattern to a simple dress. Lace and tulle look amazing in photographs.
And dresses with sleeves are a great way to help slim arms. Depending on your location, you might want to consider a fit and flare or a flowy dress.
They look great in walking and photos with movement. Choose an outfit you feel 100% YOU and comfortable in, but don't be afraid to dress up!
for the ladies
where to shop
FAVORITE SHOPS
Rent the Runway
ASOS
Morning Lavender
J. Crew
Anthropologie
Free People
Jessakae
Petal and Pup
H&M
Vici Dolls
Baltic Born Clothing
Madewell
Revolve
for the ladies
hair & makeup
Able
Zara
Mango
Sezane
Hill House Home
Reformation
Rachel Pally
Nuuly
Christy Dawn
Rylee & Cru
Clad & Cloth
Ivy City
Everlane
HAIR & MAKEUP
It's important that you look and feel your best for your photos. Investing in professional hair and makeup can go a long way towards creating photos you love for years.
Professionally done hair & makeup last longer than typical hair & makeup. They also tend to hold up better in humidity and wind.
If you go this route, I recommend staying a bit "classic". Now probably isn't the best time to try out that new contouring technique you saw on TikTok.
If you're planning to do any spray tans or waxing, schedule those for a few days before the session to give your skin time to recover.
for the ladies
for the gents
WARDROBE
You can't go wrong with a crisp button up. Or consider layering a blazer or sweater with jeans with this look. Ties and bowties are always a good idea too.
Be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photo look a little too busy.
Softer, pastel colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin. Cozy sweaters layered over button ups are a great way to stay warm and stylish during the cooler months.
for the gents
where to shop
WARDROBE
Rent the Runway
ASOS
Suit Supply
J. Crew
Zara
Leather & Cotton
Jack Threads
Frank & Oak
Nordstrom
Cuts
H&M
Urban Outfitters
Madewell
lululemon
for the gents
for everyone
Everlane
Banana Republic
Mango
Reiss
Alex Mill
Untuckit
Mizzen & Main
GoodThreads
Bonobos
Abercrombie
Rag & Bone
the rings
I always try to take a a few ring shots. If possible, try to have your engagement ring cleaned or clean it yourself.
To clean at home, soak your ring in warm water with dishwashing soap for 20 to 40 minutes. The gently brush the stone with a soft toothbrush, rinse and repeat if needed.
INCLEMENT WEATHER
WHAT TO DO IF IT RAINS
It's typical for us to schedule two engagement session dates. A primary date and a rain date. Having two dates helps us make sure that your photos happen in a timely manner. Coordinating schedules can be tough and I've found that the best way to make sure couples get the look they have in mind for their photos is to schedule a backup date.
I'll check in the week of your engagement session to confirm the time & location we're meeting at and the weather. I know it takes a lot of time to get ready for an engagement session and it's the worst to get dressed up and drive out to your session only to have it rain. Let me know what works best for the two of you - but if the weather looks like it's won't be great, I typically try to make the call at least 12 hours in advance. I've had some couples want to wait to make the call until a few hours before and some who are ready to call it based on the forecast because the pretty, sunny skies are really important to them.
PROPS?
SHOULD WE BRING
If you're planning to bring props to your engagement session, I recommend choosing ones that are meaningful to you.
Shots drinking coffee at a local coffee shop would be cute if that's where you met or coffee shops play a significant role in your relationship; however, trying to fly a kite together when it's not part of your relationship may come off as contrived.
A NOTE ON
posing
"what do I do with my hands?"
When it comes to posing for your engagement session, you don't need to worry about a thing! I'll guide you through the entire process beginning with "poses" that are super easy and natural. If I tell you to do something that feels a little funny, it's probably because I know it's going to make the two of you laugh - and that's the photo we're actually looking for.
Throughout your session, do what feels natural. If you find your hands lacking purpose, place them where they feel most comfortable. If I see something out of place, such as hair, makeup, outfits, or a stray finger, I'll make sure it gets put back in place! I want you to feel as relaxed as possible and enjoy your time together!
DATE NIGHT
If you're anything like me, you probably don't get all dressed up that often. Which means that the day of your engagement session is the perfect occasion for a date night (or brunch if your session is in the morning!)
The engagement session is another part of celebrating your love and heading off to dinner is a great way to end the session!
IMAGES
A lot of time and care goes into perfecting each image that goes in your final gallery. Unless there is a holiday, you can expect to receive your engagement photos between 1 to 2 weeks after your session.
