Engagement session guide
Let's get you ready for your engagement session!
Timing, locations, outfits, ring prep and more. Tap, flip and check things off as you go, so you can show up relaxed and just enjoy each other.
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Welcome
Congratulations, you two!
I'm so excited for your engagement session! If you're a little nervous, that's totally normal. I still get nervous having my own photos taken.
That's actually one of the best parts of an engagement session. It helps you get comfortable in front of the camera before the big day, when portrait time can fly by in 30 minutes. The more relaxed you feel with me, the better your wedding portraits will be.
It's also a chance to show off your personalities in a more casual setting, somewhere meaningful to you (even with your pets!). This guide covers what to wear, locations, pets and more, so you can show up feeling ready.
xo, Lyss
What's included
Two ways to do it.
Engagement session
Up to 2 hours, 2 locations and 2 outfits. More locations and outfits mean more variety in your gallery, so this is my favorite way to do it.
1 hour session
Up to 1 hour, 1 location and 1 outfit. Perfect for a proposal or a simple, sweet engagement shoot.
Either way, you'll receive a curated gallery of 50 to 75 edited images for every hour we spend together.
How to book
Weekday evenings are my sweet spot.
Most of my weekends are spent at weddings, so I schedule engagement sessions on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings.
Our start time depends on sunset, so we can catch that soft, golden light. Once your date is on the calendar, I'll confirm the exact time with you.
A note to the guys
I promise it's more fun than you think.
I get it. Spending a couple hours in front of a camera might not be on your top ten list of favorite things to do. It can feel a little awkward at first, but I promise it's easier than you think, and most guys end up having fun!
Think of it as a great excuse to hang out with your favorite person before the wedding chaos kicks in. I'll guide you the whole time, so all you have to do is focus on her.
Time & light
Golden hour is where the magic is.
Is there a "good" time for photos?
Honestly, there's no good or bad time of year. I usually plan sessions around the look you're dreaming of, or around your schedules.
Whenever I can, I love to start about two hours before sunset. The low sun means no harsh shadows or bright patches on your faces. The first two hours after sunrise are gorgeous too.
Because we're chasing the best light of the day, being on time really matters! If we start late in the evening, we can run out of light.
Seasonality
A few things to keep in mind each season.
Spring
Fresh flowers & sunny days
Spring is a gorgeous time for engagement photos. If you're hoping for blooms, wait about three to four weeks into spring so the flowers have time to show up, and we'll plan around the ones you love.
Summer
Beach walks & late sunsets
Summer means long golden evenings and later sunsets, so we might start as late as 6pm. It can get warm, so bring extra makeup for touch ups and a towel if we're anywhere near the water.
Fall
Colorful leaves & cozy layers
Fall is one of the prettiest times of year in California, and it books up fast! If you're dreaming of changing leaves, reach out as soon as you can to get on my calendar.
Winter
Snowfall, cocoa & cozy coats
Winter sunsets come early, so we might start as early as 2:30 in the afternoon. Bring layers, extra makeup and a few tissues for chilly noses. Snowy sessions are so magical!
Save the dates
Want your photos on the fridge?
Local wedding
Send your save the dates about 6 to 8 months before your wedding.
Destination wedding
Send them about 8 to 10 months before, so guests have time to plan travel.
Book your session early
Schedule your engagement session at least 2 months before you plan to send them, so there's time for your gallery and printing.
Locations
Pick a spot that feels like you two.
The best locations complement your wedding style, and the most meaningful ones are my favorite. The spot where you met, your first date, the trail you hike every weekend. Not sure where to go? I'm always happy to share recommendations. Flip a card to see what each style is all about.
Classic & elegant
Gardens, missions & estates
Classic & elegant
Historic missions, manicured gardens and grand estates bring elegant architecture, lush greenery and a romantic, refined feel.
Trails & forest
Towering trees, soft light
Trails & forest
Trailheads and wooded areas offer towering pines, winding paths and soft natural light, whether you want a slow stroll or a little adventure.
Beach & lake
Barefoot or dressed up
Beach & lake
Water works beautifully with casual or dressy outfits, barefoot in the sand or all dressed up at the shoreline.
Rustic
Barns, farms & orchards
Rustic
Barns, flower farms and apple orchards bring open fields, wooden textures and sometimes even horses, for a warm and timeless feel.
Urban
Rooftops & landmarks
Urban
Downtown streets, rooftops and historic landmarks make a stylish backdrop with a little edge.
Adventure
Your story in action
Adventure
Cook a meal together, hike to a lookout, go sailing or share In-N-Out under the stars. Fun, natural and full of meaning.
Furry family members
Yes, bring the dog!
Your pup is part of your story, and I love including them! Bringing a pet usually means choosing a pet friendly location.
Plan a hand off
Have your pet join the first part of the session, then have a friend take them home.
Bring a helper
Your pet won't be in every photo, so it helps to have a friend hold them between shots.
Burn some energy
A good walk or play session beforehand makes for a much calmer pup.
Treats & grooming
Bring their favorite toys and treats, and give them a little bath or groom beforehand.
Choosing outfits
Complement, don't match.
Think "complement" instead of "match." If he's wearing a blue and pink plaid shirt, she might choose a soft blue dress. Pick colors from the same family, like pastels or jewel tones, and you can't go wrong.
I love one dressy outfit and one casual, date night outfit. Save your favorite for later in the session, when the light is the prettiest. And don't forget accessories! Statement necklaces, cute shoes and watches all add so much.
Try a palette
Wardrobe tips
Larger patterns photograph beautifully, while tiny patterns can look busy. Softer pastels usually photograph better than bright colors. Lace, tulle and lace sleeves are always so pretty, and a fit and flare or flowy dress gives us lots of movement.
Shoes & comfort
Heels lengthen your legs, but bring a comfy pair for walking between spots. Be comfortable, but feel free to dress up! This is your moment.
Wardrobe
A suit and tie is always classic. A blazer with a fun tie looks great, even with jeans, and bowties are always a good idea!
Keep it simple
Skip tiny patterns that can look busy, and lean toward softer neutrals. Cozy sweaters over a button up are perfect for cooler evenings.
A perfect trial run
Your engagement session is the perfect time to do your hair and makeup trial for the wedding. Two birds, one stone!
Built to last
Professional hair and makeup holds up so much better in wind and humidity, and you'll feel like your best self.
Ring shots ahead
We'll definitely get some close ups of your hands and that gorgeous ring, so a fresh manicure is a great idea.
Guys too!
Clean, trimmed nails for the guys go a long way in those hand and ring shots.
Ring ready
Let that ring sparkle.
Your ring is going to be the star of a few close ups, so give it a little love before your session.
Soak
Soak your ring in warm water with a little dish soap for 20 to 40 minutes.
Scrub
Gently brush around the stone and setting with a soft toothbrush.
Rinse
Rinse with warm water and dry with a soft cloth. That's it!
Inclement weather
What if it rains? I've got a plan.
Two dates, one booking
When you book, we'll pick a primary date and a backup rain date at the same time, so your photos stay on track.
I'll check in
The week of your session, I'll reach out to confirm the time, the spot and the forecast.
12 hour heads up
If the weather isn't looking great, I'll make the call at least 12 hours before your session.
Posing & props
"What do I do with my hands?"
Don't worry about a thing! I'll guide you the whole way with easy, natural prompts. If I ask you to do something that feels a little silly, it's because I know it's going to make you laugh, and that's the photo we're after. I'll keep an eye on hair, makeup and outfits so you can relax.
Props
Only bring props that mean something to you. Coffee cups from the shop where you met? Yes! A random kite? Probably not. And champagne is always a good idea.
Make it a date
Plan a dinner reservation after your session. You'll be all dressed up, and it's the perfect way to end the night.
Before you go
Your session day checklist.
0 of 10 done
Your gallery
Delivered within two weeks.
Have a question I didn't cover, or want a location recommendation? I'm only an email away!