Engagement photos should be fun.
They should not feel like a chore, a checklist, or a mild panic attack in cute outfits.
And yet… here we are.
I have shot a lot of engagement sessions. Desert heat, mountain cold, surprise wind, surprise rain, surprise “oh no I forgot the ring” moments. The good news is that almost all stress around engagement photos is avoidable with a little prep and a good mindset.
So here is a no nonsense guide on how to plan an engagement photo session that actually feels enjoyable, broken down for couples, photographers, and everyone involved.
For the Couple (Yes, This Part Matters)
Bring. The. Ring.
I cannot believe I have to say this, but please bring the ring.
You would be surprised how many engagement shoots turn into very quick engagement shoots because the ring is sitting safely at home on a dresser. Safe does not help me photograph it.
Even if you do not plan on close ups, it is part of the story. Toss it in a bag. Pocket. Car cup holder. Anywhere but home.
Have 2 to 3 Outfit Options
This one is huge.
Locations can feel different in person than they do in photos online. Lighting changes. Wind shows up uninvited. Mud exists. Having outfit options saves the day more often than people realize.
Think:
One dressed up option
One casual option
A wildcard if you are feeling bold
And yes, this includes shoes. Shoes can make or break an outfit or your ability to walk five minutes to a good spot.
Accessories Are Cool (Just Not for the Hands)
Accessories are great. Jackets, hats, layers, scarves, whatever fits your style.
Just keep the hands clean. No chunky rings, no watches stealing attention. The engagement ring is already doing enough heavy lifting.
For the Photographer (Future Me Included)
The Golden Four Check
Before leaving the house, check for the golden four:
Camera body
Lens
Batteries
Memory cards
Everything else is bonus. Miss one of these and you are improvising in a way nobody enjoys.
Double Check the Weather
Weather apps are not perfect, but being surprised by wind or snow is very different than expecting it.
Knowing what you are walking into helps you:
Adjust outfits
Adjust timing
Adjust expectations
Cold shoots can be fun. Cold shoots without warning are less fun.
Scout the Location If You Can
If the location is new to you, scouting is a game changer.
Even a quick drive through helps you:
Find parking
Spot backup areas
Know where the light falls
If scouting is not possible, build extra time into the session. Rushing kills good photos.
Portable Changing Station = Hero Move
Is it required? No.
Is it appreciated every single time? Yes.
A simple pop up changing tent or even a towel setup by the car can instantly make clients feel taken care of. It is one of those small touches people remember.
For Both of You (The Secret Weapon)
Build a Shared Pinterest Moodboard
This solves so many problems before they exist.
A shared moodboard helps:
Align expectations
Clarify style
Show posing preferences
Communicate overall vibe without over explaining
It tells me what you like, what you do not like, and what you are hoping your photos feel like when you look back at them in ten years.
Pinterest does the talking so nobody has to awkwardly explain aesthetics out loud.
Final Thoughts (Keep It Simple)
The best engagement sessions happen when everyone shows up prepared and relaxed.
Bring the ring.
Bring options.
Trust your photographer.
Leave room for things to be imperfect.
The moments in between are usually the best ones anyway.