Your engagement photo session is an exciting milestone—it’s a chance to capture the love and chemistry between you and your partner in a way that feels uniquely you. But let’s be honest: standing in front of a camera can feel intimidating, even awkward at first. Don’t worry—this is completely normal, and with some helpful engagement photo tips, I’m here to help!
As your photographer, it’s my job to create a space where you can relax, have fun, and feel confident in front of the lens. Follow these tips, and I promise you’ll not only enjoy the experience but love the photos that come from it!
HERE ARE MY BEST TIPS FOR HOW TO FEEL COMFORTABLE FOR YOUR ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS:
LET YOUR GUARD DOWN.
The first step to looking natural and confident is simple: let go. Release any stress about whether your hair is perfectly in place or whether your partner’s smile is “just right.” Overthinking always shows on your face.
Instead, focus on each other. Laugh, joke, whisper something funny to your partner, or even have a tickle fight if that’s your thing. Movement and genuine moments are your best friends in creating photos that feel alive and authentic. The more relaxed you are, the more your true connection will shine through in the pictures.
TRUST THE PROCESS.
You might feel a little awkward or unsure at first, but trust me—I’ve done this hundreds of times. It’s my job to guide you, pose you, and make sure everything looks just right. The pressure is not on you—it’s on me to make you feel comfortable and confident.
A good photographer knows how to pose a couple, but a great photographer knows how to make you laugh, smile, and truly enjoy the experience. For me, how you felt during the session is just as important as how you looked. When you’re having fun, your joy and connection will naturally come through in every shot.u LOOKED and were posed.
STAY IN THE POSE BUT INTERACT WITH ONE EACH OTHER.
I’ll help you get into flattering poses and provide tips before the session begins. But here’s the secret: the best photos happen when you bring those poses to life by interacting with your partner.
Maybe your partner brushes a strand of hair out of your face or whispers something sweet (or hilariously weird!) in your ear. Maybe they pull you in for a forehead kiss or you both start laughing uncontrollably. These candid moments—where the pose becomes secondary to your connection—are what make your photos truly magical.
PRETEND YOU’RE JUST HANGING OUT TOGETHER.
One of the easiest ways to feel comfortable is to imagine that you’re just spending time together like you normally would when no one’s watching. Forget the camera and focus on the little things you love about each other.
Are you a couple that’s okay with PDA? Amazing—don’t hold back! Be touchy, playful, and intimate. Those cozy, affectionate moments make for breathtaking photos.
Prefer to keep things more low-key? No problem. We can capture the quiet beauty of your connection with sweet cuddles, hand-holding, or just gazing into each other’s eyes. Let me know what feels natural for you as a couple, and I’ll tailor the session to your comfort level.
LET’S BREAK THE ICE IF WE NEED TO.
If you’re feeling nervous or stiff at the start of the session, let’s break the ice! Tell me about your first date or the most hilarious or awkward moment you’ve shared as a couple. The more you open up, the more comfortable you’ll feel—and once you’re comfortable, the magic happens.
To keep things fun and light, I’ll share some of my own embarrassing or funny stories, too. Trust me, it’s all about creating an easygoing vibe where you can be yourselves.
GET A DRINK BEFOREHAND!
For some couples, a little pre-session drink can be a game-changer. Whether it’s a glass of wine, a cocktail, or just a beer, it can help you loosen up and feel more at ease.
If this sounds like your vibe, plan to grab a drink and a bite to eat at a nearby spot before your session. Just make sure it’s a light drink—you want to feel relaxed, not sleepy! And, of course, be safe if you’re driving.
Here are some common questions I get about when to plan an engagement session:
WHAT TIME OF YEAR IS BEST FOR AN ENGAGEMENT SESSION?
I personally love Ohio since we have four distinct seasons. Think about your wedding month and then, if possible, choose a different season for your engagement photos. Why not have your photos be different than the ones you’ll receive on your wedding day? Also, keep in mind if you’re sending out save the dates, those will go out anywhere between 6-9 months before the big day, so you’ll need time for your photographer to take and edit those photos (and probably a buffer in case of bad weather and the need to reschedule). Don’t cut it too close.
WHAT IS THE MOST POPULAR TIME FOR ENGAGEMENT SESSIONS?
Spring is a big time for sessions since everyone is excited for the warmer weather and the beautiful flowers, but fall takes the cake. Many people are a huge sucker for those colorful leaves and cooler temperatures.
Spring engagement photo ideas:
A park picnic with beautiful flowers, downtown stroll, ice cream date, or IKEA trip would be awesome.
Here is some spring outfit inspiration
Summer engagement photo ideas:
A romantic beach session ending with a makeout sesh in the water, boat ride, mini-golf date, hot air balloon ride, or one of the county fairs would make for some beautiful images.
Here is some summer outfit inspiration
Fall engagement photo ideas:
Let’s find the perfect scenery and a perfect weekday with your schedule (weekends during peak fall are insanely busy) and get some gorgeous colors!
Here is some fall outfit inspiration
Winter engagement photo ideas:
A coffee house, book shop, bar, a park with blankets and snuggles, smoke bomb sesh, a snowball fight, or a romantic session at your home would be so sweet!
Here is some winter outfit inspiration
Whether it’s hiking, football, shopping, or just sitting at home…we can pick something meaningful to you! Musically inclined? Bring a guitar to your session! The possibilities are endless! Just make sure you’re doing something you both enjoy together – even if that’s just sitting on the couch together eating pizza.
THE BEST LIGHTING FOR AN ENGAGEMENT SESSION:
WHAT TIME OF DAY SHOULD YOU SCHEDULE ENGAGEMENT SESSIONS?
Stay away from that harsh noon-ish time sun. It’s bad, ya’ll. You’ll be squinting, and the shadows and sun are just toooooo harsh. Photos taken in full sun are not ideal for anyone. You’ll be disappointed and be limited to anywhere with shade. Plus, in the warmer months, it’s just too damn hot!
WHEN IS THE BEST LIGHTING FOR ENGAGEMENT SESSIONS?
You actually get THE BEST lighting right at sunrise up to 60 or so minutes after as well as 60 or so minutes before sunset. These times are called “The Golden Hour” because of how pretty and softer the light is compared to mid-day. Just think about how awesome sunrise and sunset look and next time you’re out for one of those, see how great the light looks for photos! How to figure out current sunrise and sunset times.
WANT TO START AFTER SUNRISE AND BEFORE SUNSET.
Sometimes it’s confusing and you have to think about the fact that when the sun rises or sets, it actually breaks that horizon line. So sunset, for example, is typically too late to take photos, because the sun will be fully setting and dipping down and it will be too dark for those Golden Hour photos.
I know, I know, sunrise is early…but you would be amazed how many people get up and just do it for the sake of the photos. It makes a big difference!
Your engagement session isn’t just about capturing beautiful photos—it’s about celebrating your love and having fun along the way. The more relaxed and connected you feel, the better the photos will turn out.
At the end of the day, it’s not about whether your hair was perfectly in place or whether every pose felt flawless. It’s about capturing you: your laughter, your love, and your unique bond. So let your guard down, trust the process, and let’s create something unforgettable together!