Everything you need to feel confident, prepared, and excited for photos you’ll treasure forever. I’m so excited for your portrait session! Whether we’re capturing your engagement, anniversary, or simply documenting this beautiful chapter of your story, this engagement session planning guide is here to help you feel fully prepared and genuinely excited. By the time you’ve read through it, you’ll know exactly what to expect — and your only job will be to show up as your wonderful, real selves, laugh a lot, and let me create images you’ll love forever.

Choosing the Right Location

This is where you can have a little fun. Think beyond the usual spots — is there a place that feels special to your relationship? A hidden trail, cozy lakeside, family ranch, or charming greenhouse? Unique, meaningful places always create the most heartfelt photos.

Most of my couples love Oregon’s natural beauty, and open-air outdoor locations are always a favorite for that soft, dreamy light. But we can also think outside the box: private estates, vintage cars, rooftops, tucked-away gardens — anything is possible, and I’m always down to dream with you.

Want inspo? See how Norma & Patrick brought editorial charm to their engagement session at The Benson Hotel.

Picking the Best Time & Date

I shoot using natural light, and there’s truly nothing more magical than golden hour — those last couple of hours before sunset when everything feels soft and romantic.

We’ll typically start your session about an hour before sunset. I’ll help you choose the exact time based on your date and location, but just remember: the sun sets earlier in fall and winter, so plan a little buffer time to arrive relaxed and ready.

💡 Pro tip: Use a sunset calculator to figure out the perfect start time for your shoot.

Want to Add a Little Extra?

Looking to make your session feel more editorial or personalized? Bring a few special touches!
Think:

• A bouquet or wildflowers
• A cozy blanket for snuggling
• Champagne to pop
• A vintage car or picnic setup

These extras help tell your story and add depth, texture, and playfulness to your photos.

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Styling Your Engagement Session

This is your chance to dress up, feel amazing, and reflect your unique style as a couple. Whether your vibe is playful, romantic, laid-back, or elegant, I want you to feel like the best version of you.

🧡 Coordinate, Don’t Match

Think harmony over identical outfits. Neutrals and soft tones (dusty pink, taupe, olive, light blue, cream) tend to photograph beautifully in Oregon’s landscapes. Avoid neon or harsh colors if possible.

✨ Choose Texture + Movement

Flowy fabrics like tulle, chiffon, linen, or silk add so much magic to photos. Layers (like jackets or open knits) and pieces that catch the breeze photograph beautifully outdoors.

✔ Comfort = Confidence

If you’re tugging at straps or dealing with sore shoes, it’ll show. Choose outfits that fit well and let you move naturally — confidence is always your best accessory.

Outfit Options: One or Two?

You’re welcome to bring one or two outfits:

• One elevated or editorial look (flowy dress, suit, chic separates)
• One casual “date night” look

That said, one outfit you love beats two you feel unsure about. Choose what makes you feel incredible.

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Accessories, Hair, and Finishing Touches

The little details matter. Think hats, heirloom jewelry, or a statement watch. Bring along your pup or a sentimental prop that adds meaning to your images.

Hair & Makeup

Professional hair and makeup can boost your confidence and help you feel photo-ready. Even if you usually go natural, a little polish goes a long way on camera.

🎨 Pro tip: Get your makeup done in natural light (to match our session), and false lashes or bolder lips photograph better than you might expect!

Need a rec? I work with some incredible artists and would love to connect you!

Ring + Nails

If this is your engagement session, your ring will absolutely get its moment. Get it cleaned professionally (many jewelers do this for free!) and consider a fresh mani in a neutral shade — it looks amazing in close-ups.

✅ Quick Style Dos & Don’ts

Do:
✓ Choose pieces that feel like you
✓ Mix textures and layers
✓ Plan for movement
✓ Stick to muted, earthy, or pastel tones
✓ Coordinate without matching

Don’t:
✗ Wear neon or harsh prints
✗ Show up in anything ill-fitting or baggy
✗ Forget to prep shoes and accessories
✗ Get a spray tan (trust me — natural skin tones always photograph best)

Most Important: Make It Yours

This session is about your connection. Laugh a lot. Get dressed up. Run barefoot through the grass. Whatever feels most like you.

We’ll create images that feel like a reflection of your love story — dreamy, relaxed, and completely you.