Planning your engagement session
In this guide, you’ll find tips on what to wear, location ideas, and more. If you’re feeling a little nervous about being in front of the camera—that’s totally normal! Most couples need a little time to warm up in front of the camera. My advice? Treat it like a fun date rather than a photo shoot, and just enjoy the time together.
Scheduling your session
I’ve photographed engagement sessions anywhere from right after a proposal to just a few weeks before the wedding—there’s no wrong time to do it. If you’re hoping to shoot outdoors, I’d recommend scheduling in the spring or fall when the weather’s nice and the trees still have some life in them.
Planning to use your photos for save-the-dates? Try to book your session at least two months before you want to send them out. That gives us enough time to factor in possible weather delays, editing, designing, and printing—without feeling rushed.
Timing
I love scheduling engagement sessions about two hours before sunset—that’s when the light is soft and dreamy! Sessions usually last around 90 minutes, so it’s super important to be on time, especially in the evening, so we don’t lose that golden light.
I recommend planning your session in the spring or fall when the weather’s a bit more comfortable. If you’re thinking about winter (December through February), just keep in mind that Austin’s not the greenest that time of year—most trees and flowers are pretty bare.
I offer engagement sessions on weekdays only, since weekends are reserved for weddings.
Locations
When selecting a location for your engagement session, choose a space that feels authentic to you as a couple. Think beyond the obvious: what environments inspire you? Is there a place that holds meaning in your story, or a setting that speaks to your style, careers, or shared passions?
If you’re coffee enthusiasts, your favorite café could serve as an intimate, familiar backdrop. For those who feel most grounded in nature, a golden field, quiet shoreline, or sun-drenched park might be the perfect fit. If you’re into craft cocktails, a stylish cocktail bar could make for a chic backdrop—or, if a laid-back dive bar is more your vibe, we can lean into that too.
If you have a vision, mood, or concept you’re not quite sure how to incorporate, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’d love to collaborate with you to craft a session that feels personal, intentional, and completely your own.
Location Inspiration
In-home session
Bull Creek
McKinney Falls
Sekrit Theater
South Congress
A coffee shop, bar, or restaurant
Your wedding venue
Laguna Gloria ($150 fee/hr)
Circle C Park
Butler Park + Auditorium Shores
Downtown Austin
Mount Bonnell + Mayfield Park
Commons Ford Ranch
University of Texas Campus
Blue Valley Park
Deep Eddy Pool + Pool Burger
Barton Springs
Rent a cute Airbnb
Live Oak Brewery
East Austin Succulents
Emma Long Park
What to wear
Aim to complement each other’s style rather than match outright—cohesive tones and textures photograph beautifully without feeling too coordinated. Most couples choose two looks for their engagement session: one casual and one more elevated.
I suggest saving your favorite outfit for the second half of the session, once you’ve had a little time to settle in and feel more at ease in front of the camera.
Long flowy or silky slip dresses that are timeless photograph beautifully. Look for dresses that will show texture and movement.
Formal outfit inspiration
I love a good casual outfit! Cropped pants, midi skirts, patterned blouses, and a little bit of color to add some pop! Add unique accessories to tie the outfit together.
Casual outfit inspiration
I am far from an expert when it comes to the male wardrobe, but here are a few ideas to get you started! Again, aim for neutrals or muted tones, avoid busy/distracting patterns, and keep it simple.
Menswear inspiration
Dress as though you are attending the same event. If you can’t decide between outfits, bring them both! We can always decide what works best during our session.
Couples outfit tips
Be yourself
Confidence is key when it comes to photos. Wear something that feels true to you—comfortable, expressive of your unique style, easy to move in, and makes you feel good. Don’t worry about sticking to the typical “engagement session” looks you’ve seen before—I want this to be all about you being you.
Props & pastimes
Your engagement session is a chance to showcase who you are as a couple. One meaningful way to do that is by incorporating hobbies or activities you love doing together. Whether it’s biking, reading, painting, making music, photography, playing games, listening to records, picnicking, wine tasting, or anything else that speaks to your connection, these personal touches make the session truly yours.
If you’d like, I’m happy to help brainstorm creative ways to weave your favorite pastimes into your photos.
Camera shy
Almost every client I’ve worked with tells me they feel awkward in front of the camera — and that’s totally normal! Having a camera pointed at you can feel strange, but I’ll do everything I can to keep the session fun and relaxed.
When it comes to posing, the best thing you can do is just be yourselves. You already know how to hug, kiss, laugh, hold hands, and walk together — those natural moments are exactly what we’ll capture. No fancy poses required.
If you’re feeling nervous beforehand, consider carving out some time for a happy hour date before the session or starting the session at a bar/restaurant. A drink or two can be a great way to loosen up and get comfortable.
Fur babies
Our dog is such a big part of our family, so I love when couples include their pets in their sessions! That said, bringing a pet means we’ll want to pick a pet-friendly location. I usually recommend having your furry friend join us for the first part of the session, then either dropping them off or having a friend take them home afterward. Since we won’t use your pet in every shot, it’s helpful to have someone nearby to hold them between photos.
A few extra tips:
If your pup has lots of energy, a little exercise before the session goes a long way.
Don’t forget to bring their favorite toy or some treats!
Try to avoid bright colored harnesses or bandanas—they can distract from the photos.
Turnaround time
You will be able to view your photographs in an online gallery 4-5 weeks after your session.
Ideas for image use:
wedding website
save-the-dates
sign-in books
Let’s create some magic
I’m here to capture your love story, so don’t hold back—think of this session as a creative collaboration between us. Focus on enjoying the moment with each other and embrace those spontaneous, real-life moments. I want you to be completely yourselves!
Whether you’re a little shy or total goofballs who can’t stop making each other laugh, lean into that. I’ll guide you through the shoot, but I also want you to savor the “imperfect” moments that feel genuine and natural.
Let’s hang out and create something beautiful together!
I hope this page has inspired you and got you excited for your engagement session! Feel free to check out my Pinterest boards below for even more ideas.
1.Timeless love - what inspires me