If you've never had professional photos taken of you and your person before, an engagement session can feel a little intimidating. What do we do with our hands? Are we going to have to make out the whole time? What if we're awkward?
Spoiler: you're not going to be awkward. And even if you are for the first five minutes, I promise it doesn't last.
Here's exactly what to expect during your engagement session with me — a Northern Virginia wedding photographer based in Haymarket and shooting all over Loudoun, Fauquier, Fairfax, and DC — start to finish, so you can show up feeling prepared and excited instead of nervous.
Before the session even starts
Once you book, the planning quietly begins. I'll send over a questionnaire so I know the little things — how you met, what you actually love doing together, whether you're huggers or hand-holders, and what kind of vibe you want your photos to feel like.
From there, we'll lock in a location (more on that in another post), talk through outfits, and build a loose plan for the day. If you're nervous, tell me. I work with nervous couples all the time and I have a whole toolbox of ways to help you relax once we're actually shooting.
The first 10 minutes: getting comfortable
When we meet up, we're not jumping straight into close-ups and dramatic kisses. We start easy.
I'll have you walk hand-in-hand toward me, or away from me, and just talk to each other. Sometimes I'll ask you to tell each other the most embarrassing thing that's happened this week. Sometimes I'll have you whisper your grocery list to each other in your most dramatic voice. It sounds silly because it is silly — and that's the point. The faster we get to real laughter, the faster the camera disappears.
By minute ten, most couples forget I'm there. By minute twenty, they're forgetting on purpose.
Mid-session: the variety builds
Once you're warmed up, we'll start mixing things up. I'll guide you through a rhythm of:
- Walking and movement shots — natural, in-between moments where you're just being together
- Gently posed portraits — a few intentionally composed frames where I'm paying close attention to your hands, your posture, and the light
- Close-up intimate moments — foreheads together, whispered jokes, the kind of frames that feel like you
- Wide environmental shots — where the location does some of the storytelling
I'll give you specific micro-prompts the whole time. Not "look natural" — actual direction. "Pull her in by the waist and kiss her temple." "Put your forehead against his and close your eyes for three seconds." "Walk toward me and bump shoulders every couple of steps."
Clear prompts = real moments. Every time.
Outfit changes (if you want them)
If we planned for two looks, we'll switch somewhere in the middle. I usually recommend going from a slightly dressier outfit to something more casual and movement-friendly, or vice versa depending on the light. Bring a little bag with backup options, a brush, and water.
Chasing golden hour
The last 30-45 minutes of your session are almost always my favorite. The light goes soft and warm, the world quiets down, and you've been together long enough that you've stopped performing. This is when the most honest images happen.
We'll slow down here. Less "do this, now do that" and more "just stand here with him and look at the trees for a second." I'll let moments breathe instead of rushing through a shot list.
After the session
Within a few days, you'll get a sneak peek of 5-10 images so you have something to share right away. Your full gallery is delivered within three to four weeks, beautifully edited and ready to download, print, and post.
If we're also doing your wedding, your engagement session does double duty: it helps you get used to being in front of my camera specifically, so by the time the wedding day comes, you already know what it feels like to work with me. A favorite local spot like Morven Park in Leesburg is one of many beautiful Northern Virginia options for the session. Less stress on the most important day = better photos.
A few things to remember
You just need to show up, hold your person's hand, and trust me to do the rest. That's literally my job, and after this many weddings and sessions, I've gotten pretty good at it.
- You don't need to know how to pose
- You don't need to be a model
- You don't need to be "good in front of cameras"
Ready to book your engagement session? Reach out here and let's start planning. I can't wait to meet you both.
