With engagement season in full swing, I’m going to give you some tips on how to nail a natural, effortless engagement session that feels like YOU. Not a stranger from pinterest.

Choose a location that is meaningful to you both: The first step in preparing for your engagement photoshoot is to choose a location that is special to you both. Whether it’s the place where you had your first date, a park you like to visit, or a spot that has sentimental value, choosing a location that means something to you will make the photoshoot more meaningful.

• Discuss your vision with your photographer: Before the photoshoot, have a discussion with your photographer about your vision for the photos. Share your ideas, pinterest boards, any special requests you may have, and let your photographer know if there are any specific shots you want to capture. I always send out a pre-session questionnaire to get to know my couples a bit better. The most important question I ask is “How do you want these photos to FEEL?”

• Dress comfortably: It’s important to feel comfortable during your photoshoot, so choose clothing that you feel good in. Avoid clothes that are too tight or restrictive, and opt for clothing that reflects your personal style. I am a big fan of a midi dress, it allows for running, sitting, lifts, but at the end of the day, it depends on what the “vibe” of the photo shoot is… rooftop city shoot? Open field with tons of flowers? Totally different feels! I provide all my couples with an outfit guide to help them understand how colors and textures impact the feel of a shoot.

• Get a good night’s sleep: Being well-rested will help you feel more relaxed and comfortable during your photoshoot. Make sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before.
• Bring personal items to your shoot! Does your fiance play the guitar? Bring it. Grab a cozy picnic blanket for snuggling on. These comfort items will help you feel at home and give you an activity to do, making your photos feel less posed.
• KEEP MOVING. The best thing you can do to achieve natural feeling photographs is movement. I help guide all my couples through some basic prompts, but swaying, hugging, kissing, rubbing, these are all things you can do while in a pose to help it feel more natural. Think of it like a video rather than a photo!
• Trust your photographer: As a natural, documentary style photographer, I specialize in capturing candid moments and natural expressions. Trust your photographer to guide you and help you feel comfortable during the photoshoot. It’s going to feel weird… I’ll ask you to do things that might feel sort of dumb, but please, just go with it and trust it will be gorgeous in the end!
• Have fun! Most importantly, remember to have fun! Your engagement photos should be a celebration of your love and relationship. Relax, be yourselves, and enjoy the moment. I want this to feel like a date night… bring wine, champagne, tequila if we’re trying to get crazy… Anything that is going to make you feel more comfortable and loose, will only make the experience better!