The Engagement Experience
Planning your engagement session often brings a few questions - when to schedule, where to go, what to wear, and how it will all unfold. I’ll thoughtfully guide you through each step, creating a relaxed and seamless experience from beginning to end.
When + Where
The first official step is to schedule the date and time. If you haven’t already done so, check my availability here, then send me an e-mail with 5 dates that work best for you both. Time-wise, I aim to photograph sessions during the last 2 hours of daylight. I prefer to use sunrisesunset.com to check what time the sun will set, then aim to schedule our start time about 1 hour prior to sunset, depending on the location.
As for “where”, I have a long list of favorite locations all over Wisconsin - from tall Wisconsin pines, northern waterfalls, open fields, Lake Michigan beaches, small town vibes, to big city urban scenes and more. In your questionnaire, you’ll see a check list with several options you can let me know you’re interested in. Once your questionnaire is complete, I’ll review all your answers then send you some suggestions.
Make It Uniquely Yours
Your engagement session is the perfect opportunity to bring personality and creativity into your photographs. If you’re drawn to something a little unexpected, here are a few ideas to make your session truly memorable:
• Step into the water - fully dressed - for playful, carefree portraits along a lake or shoreline
• A spontaneous mud fight or playful moment outdoors
• Color powder or paint for a vibrant, energetic look
• Incorporate a meaningful hobby, passion, or even your workplace
• A whimsical session at a county or state fair
• Love the Renaissance Faire? Let’s embrace it - costumes and all
• Choose a fun theme and lean into it: vintage Hollywood, Barbiecore, or even an 80s-inspired aesthetic
• Bring along a vintage car, boat, or motorcycle
• Plan a cozy in-home session baking, cooking, or simply relaxing together
• Capture the atmosphere of your favorite coffee shop, bookstore, or local spot
• Celebrate the season - apple orchards, snowy adventures, or summer sunsets by the water
• Wear your red carpet-worthy outfits to create a Vogue-inspired vibe
The possibilities are endless, and the most meaningful sessions often come from simply embracing what makes the two of you unique.
What
One of the most common questions couples ask is, “What should we wear?” Wardrobe plays a meaningful role in shaping the look and variety of your engagement gallery. I often recommend bringing three to four thoughtfully chosen outfits to create a beautiful range of images.
1 - Casual
Choose something you would naturally wear in your everyday life. This look should feel comfortable, authentic, and reflective of who you are as a couple.
2 - Semi-Formal
Select something polished but relaxed. Think dress pants with a button-down shirt, a sundress, or a stylish top paired with tailored pants, similar to what you might wear to a laid-back wedding or an evening out.
3 - Dramatic
This is your moment for something truly striking. A flowing gown, a tailored suit, or a look that feels elevated and bold can create stunning, editorial-style images that feel cinematic and timeless.
4 - Trend-Forward
If you love fashion, consider adding a look that reflects current style. Trends may evolve over time, but incorporating one modern, fashion-inspired outfit can bring a stylish edge to your gallery - something worthy of a magazine cover.
Thoughtfully chosen outfits not only add variety to your images but also allow your personalities and style to shine through.
Clothes to Avoid
No wild patterns that hurt your eyes, stay away from bright neon colors, and don’t wear clothes that are very obviously dirty or damaged (yes, people have shown up to sessions like that)
How
Another common question I hear is, “How will we pose? We’re not professional models.” The good news is, you don’t need to be. My approach to engagement sessions is designed to feel natural, relaxed, and genuinely enjoyable.
Rather than relying on stiff posing, I guide couples through a series of thoughtful stages, each designed to help you ease into the experience while creating a beautiful variety of images.
Stage One
We begin with a few classic, gently guided portraits - the timeless photographs that parents and grandparents will always treasure.
Stage Two
Next, we move into playful, relaxed moments. These images feel more candid and documentary in nature, capturing natural laughter, movement, and connection.
Stage Three
From there, we create portraits that focus on closeness and romance. Images that feel intimate, warm, and quietly expressive.
Stage Four
Finally, we embrace a more editorial approach. With thoughtful direction and artistic composition, these images often feel striking and fashion-inspired - the kind you might imagine in the pages of a magazine.
By moving through these stages together, couples naturally relax in front of the camera, allowing the session to feel effortless while creating a gallery filled with authentic and memorable moments.
Why
If you're on the fence about using your complimentary engagement session, I always encourage couples to take advantage of it, even if you've already had engagement portraits taken.
Your engagement session is more than a chance to create beautiful images. It’s an opportunity for us to spend time together before the wedding day, allowing you to become comfortable in front of the camera while getting a feel for my approach and guidance.
By the time your wedding arrives, the process will already feel familiar and effortless. That sense of ease allows you to fully enjoy the moment, knowing exactly what to expect.
Like any meaningful collaboration, trust grows naturally through time spent together, and an engagement session is the perfect way to begin building that connection.
Have more questions?
If you have more questions, please feel free to reach out. As always, I’ll be happy to help and guide you through this process.
