choosing the perfect time, location, outfit & more!
Engagement Session
planning your
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Second, you can showcase your personalities in a more casual setting that is significant to the two of you (and even include your pets!). While they’re great for save-the-dates, engagement photos can take place 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 have been asked the same things over and over again, I thought it would be the most beneficial to put together a guide that walks you through everything you need to know.
What to wear, whether to bring pets & how to manage them, Bay Area location ideas and more!
Well, hello there! I'm Kristen, a wedding photographer based in Northern California here to wish you a HUGE congratulations on your engagement! You may be wondering "now what?" A natural first step is to schedule an engagement session. It’s normal to be a little nervous about your session. I always tell people that my husband and I both still get nervous before having our photos taken - and I do this for a living!
I am 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 their photographer poses. Timelines can be pretty tight on weddings days and 30 minutes may be all you have for portraits - which is why I’ve found that wedding day portraits turn out so much better when couples do engagement sessions ahead of time.
Welcome
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.
After working with over 150 couples, I can confidently say that by the end of the session, it’s a lot easier than you thought, and you'll realize even had a little fun. Look forward to it because it’s a great opportunity for you to hang out and get to know your photographer a bit before the wedding day.
The guys
A NOTE TO
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. It's totally normal to plan sessions based on a particular “look” you couple have in mind, spring flowers for example, or based on schedules.
Sessions typically last about an hour and a half and when when possible—plan to begin your session about two hours before sunset. Most photographers 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.
Your photographer will schedule sessions during 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, you could run out of light before you’ve finished shooting and if your session takes place in the morning, the sun gets more harsh as it rises.
"GOOD" TIME TO TAKE PHOTOS?
Time & Light: is there a
While most engagement sessions take place between April and late November, sessions can take place all year. Most couples choose a season based on the location where they want to shoot.
A few things to keep in mind during each season:
Seasons
If you’re planning to take your engagement photos during the winter, keep in mind that if your session takes place in the evening, you could begin as early as 2:30pm to catch the sunset. It's recommended to dress 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.
hot cocoa and cozy coats
Winter
Even though Spring begins in March, we typically don’t begin shooting for another 6 weeks because the weather in Maryland is still pretty chilly. When we schedule spring dates, we typically schedule both a primary date and a backup rain date.
fresh flowers and sunny days
Spring
In spite of the heat, most of us photographers are big fans 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.
walks on the beach hand in hand
Summer
Fall is one of the prettiest times of the year on the and because of the perfect weather, photographer's schedules typically book up quickly! If you have your heart set on a fall engagement session, I recommend scheduling it as soon as you book!
colorful leaves and snuggling close
Fall
If your wedding is local, save the dates should be sent between 6 and 8 months before the wedding. For a destination wedding, you’ll want to send them out 8 to 10 months before the wedding.
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.
Save-the-dates
Cooking class
Hiking
Sailing / Boating
Coffee/Wine Bars
Yosemite
ADVENTURE
Tree & Flower Farms
Filoli Gardens
Pulgas Water Temple
Mansions
Elegant
The above locations are all beautiful but we also love exploring meaningful locations with our couples!
Heather Farms
Waterfront Park
Fossil Hill Trail
Del Valle Regional Park
Sycamore Grove Park
East Bay locations
Chappellet
Far Niente
Silver Creek
French Laundry
Napa
Crissy Field
Land's End
Ocean Beach
Pacifica State Beach
Stinson Beach
Pigeon Point Lighthouse
Santa Cruz/Montery
COASTAL/Beach
Legion of Honor
SF City Hall
Pier 7
Sutro Baths
YBI Hilltop Park
Treasure Island
CLASSIC
We photographers love when couples choose a location for their session that complements their wedding. For example if you’re planning a chic, elegant wedding, it may be fitting to take your engagement portraits among the classic architecture in San Francisco, while a local park or flower-filled fields may be more fitting for a couple planning a more rustic affair.
The best session locations are often meaningful places to the couple; however, your photographer would be happy to make recommendations. From ski slopes to lavender fields to apple picking and college campuses, the options for engagement session locations are endless!
Northern California ENGAGEMENT LOCATIONS
Locations
While most engagement sessions are taken in a local area, if you have a location in mind that is significant to the two of you, let your photographer know because if your schedules align, they might be able to take your engagement photos outside of their normal area.
Travel fees may apply depending on the location and availability, but it can add so much to your overall experience.
Engagement sessions
destination
It can be so much fun when couples choose to incorporate pets into their session. Keep in mind that bringing a pet along often means that you’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 hiring a pet sitter for the remainder of your session or having a friend take them home. Your pet won't be in every single photo so it’s also nice to have a friend 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 pet's favorite toy and lots of treats! Depending on your pet’s fur type, it is a great idea to groom them before the shoot (and have a lint roller on hand.)
Pets
When picking outfits I highly 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. It's recommended to save your favorite outfit for later in the session, when couples usually feel more comfortable in front of the camera. And don’t forget to bring a few accessories! Statement necklaces, engagement bouquets, cute shoes and classic watches are great ways to add detail to outfits.
TIPS FOR LOOKING YOUR BEST
Outfits
on to the next
When picking outfits, keep in mind the word “complement” rather than “match.” For example, if the one of you is wearing a blue and pink pastel plaid shirt, the other may want to choose a to dress in soft blues. It can also be a great idea to choose “color-families,” such as pastels or jewel tones.
A good rule of thumb: 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).
And always keep the location in mind. If you chose a green field, light green might blend in too much with the surroundings.
Choosing Outfits
for everyone
on to the next
Heels lengthen legs but if your heels aren’t comfortable for walking or you'll be in grass, bring an extra pair of shoes to slip into in between shots.
Larger patterns and textures (like linen) photograph very well - 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. I love a good bright, neon dresses, but no one loves the neon reflection they add to your complexion.
Wardrobe Tips
for the ladies
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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 comfortable in, but don’t be afraid to dress up!
Accessories
for the ladies
on to the next
Able
Zara
Mango
Sezane
Hill House Home
Reformation
Rachel Pally
Nuuly
Christy Dawn
Rylee & Cru
Clad & Cloth
Ivy City
Shopbop
Everlane
Rent the Runway
ASOS
Morning Lavender
J. Crew
Anthropologie
Free People
Jessakae
Petal & Pup
H&M
Vici Dolls
Lulu's
Baltic Born Clothing
Madewell
Kate + Grace Boutique
Favorite Shops
for the ladies
It’s so 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'd 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.
Hair & Makeup
for the ladies
on to the next
You can’t go wrong with crisp button up. Or consider layering a blazer or sweater with jeans with this look.
Bowties and suspenders are good ideas.
Be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photo look a little too busy and can create a weird pattern effect that can't be removed.
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.
Wardrobe
for the gents
on to the next
Wardrobe
for the gents
on to the next
Rent the Runway
ASOS
Suit Supply
J. Crew
Zara
Leather & Cotton
Jack Threads
Frank & Oak
Nordstrom
Cuts
H&M
Urban Outfitters
Madewell
Lululemon
Everlane
Banana Republic
Mango
Reiss
Alex Mill
Untuckit
Amazon - GoodThreads
Bonobos
Abercrombie
Rag & Bone
Your ring will be photographed up close. If possible, try to have your engagement ring cleaned by your local jeweler (and keep up with that 6 month inspection) or clean it yourself.
To clean at home, soak your ring in warm water with dishwashing soap for 20 to 40 minutes. Then gently brush the stone with a soft toothbrush, rinse and repeat if needed.
The Rings
It’s common to schedule two engagement session dates. A primary date and a "rain-check" date. Having two dates helps 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 two dates at the same time.
Your photographer will check in the week of your engagement session to confirm the time & location, and the weather. I know it takes a lot of time to get ready for engagement session and it’s the worst to get dressed up and drive out to your session only to have it rain.
Let your photographer know what works best for the two of you - but if the weather looks like it won’t be great, most will typically try to make the call at least 12 hours in advance.
what to do if it rains
Inclement Weather
If you’re planning to bring props to your engagement session, it's best to include them only if they’re meaningful to you.
Shots drinking coffee at a local coffee shop would be cute if that’s where you met, or if coffee shops play a significant role in your relationship; however, trying to fly a kite together when it’s not a part of your relationship may come off as contrived.
props?
should we bring
When it comes to posing for your engagement session, you don’t need to worry about a thing! Your photographer will guide you through the entire process beginning with “poses” that are super easy and natural. If they tell you to do something that feels a little funny, it’s probably because they know it’s going to make the two of you laugh - and that’s the photo we’re actually looking for.
Throughout your session, your photographer will keep an eye on your hair, makeup and outfits to make sure things stay in place. The goal is for you to feel as relaxed as possible and enjoy your time together!
"what do I do with my hands?"
posing
A note on
If you’re anything like my husband and I, you probably don’t get dressed up all 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!
Date Night
Every photographer has a unique timeline for delivering your final gallery, so it’s important to confirm with your photographer when your photos will be ready. For engagement sessions, most photographers typically deliver galleries within 2–4 weeks.
Images
When to Expect Your
I know that this guide is long and hopefully it covers everything you need to know to prep for your engagement session! However if there is something I missed, or you need a recommendation feel free to email
me at info@kristencampbellphoto.com
THANK YOU!
If you seek timeless romantic imagery paired with organization and execution, let's schedule a consultation to ensure we're the perfect match for your vision.
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