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ENGAGEMENT SESSION
PLANNING YOUR
Choosing the ideal time, location, outfits & more!
Welcome
A NOTE ABOUT THIS GUIDE
I'm so excited to be working with you, and I can’t wait for our time together during your engagement session! It’s normal to be a little nervous about your session. I always tell people that, even though I take pictures for a living, I still get nervous before having my portraits taken too.
I'm an advocate for engagement sessions for a few reasons. First, they allow the two of you to get comfortable in front of the camera. It takes time for most couples to warm up to being photographed and to understand what it's like to be comfortably directed and posed. We may not have a lot of time for portraits on your wedding day, so it's best to get the nervousness out during your engagement session rather than on your wedding day.
Second, you can showcase your personalities and relationship in a setting that is significant to the two of you and perhaps more casual than your wedding attire. You are unique and your love story is too, and with your engagement portraits, you're invited to be present with each other and fully encompass the relationship you cherish.
The best way I can help you prepare is with this helpful guide! I figured it would be most beneficial for all of the pertinent information to be in one place to walk you through all that you need to know.
Enjoy reading through it all.
- Kiyah
If we're being honest, I understand that having your picture taken for 1-2 hours might not be in your top 10 favorite things to do during your downtime. However, I think you’ll find that by the end of the session, it will be a lot easier and more fun than you thought! I recommend going into your session with a positive outlook and thinking of it as a way to make new memories together. I look forward to spending this quality time with you two before your wedding day!
The Guys
A NOTE TO
Engagement sessions can take place anywhere from immediately following a proposal to just a few days before the wedding. I’ve found that there isn’t a “good” or “bad” time to take your photos. I normally plan sessions based on the "look" you as a couple envision or based on overall schedules.
Your session will last about 90 minutes and will typically begin two hours before sunset or 30 minutes after sunrise. The sun plays a big part in your session because the film that I'll be shooting with needs a lot of light to bring forth the best colors. We will also want to avoid harsh shadows, bright sun patches, and blazing heat, so shooting later or earlier in the day is ideal.
We schedule sessions during what I believe will be the best light of the day which means that it’s very important to be on time. If you’re late to an evening session, we could run out of light before we’ve finished shooting, and if your session takes place in the morning, the sun gets harsher as it rises.
Is there a "good" time to take photos?
TIME & LIGHT
While I shoot most of engagement sessions between April and mid-November, sessions can take place all year. Most of my couples choose a season based on the location where they want to shoot.
A few things to keep in mind during each season:
Seasons
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Winter
snowfall, bare trees, and cozy coats
If you’re planning to take your engagement photos during the winter, we could begin shooting as early as 2:30pm to maximize sunlight. I recommend dressing in layers so that in between photos, you can stay warm. Make sure you bring a little extra makeup and tissues in case your nose begins running. You can also opt for a naturally-lit indoor location if you want to avoid the cold altogether.
Spring
fresh flowers and sunny days
Spring is a wonderful time for sessions! In Atlanta, we can schedule as soon as mid-March, and in DC, we will likely wait til the weather warms up just a bit in mid-April. When I schedule spring dates, I typically schedule both a primary date and a backup date in case it rains. If you know that spring allergies are a problem for you, be sure to prepare with medicine or tissues.
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Summer
walks on the beach hand in hand
In spite of the heat, I love summer sessions! Because of the later sunset, sessions sometimes begin as late as 6pm. I recommend bringing extra makeup and a few towels to make sure you stay fresh throughout your session. If you really don't enjoy hot weather, be sure to plan for a spring or fall session instead or select a destination with more mild summer temperatures.
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Fall
colorful leaves and snuggling close
Fall is one of the prettiest times of the year and because of the perfect weather, my calendar typically books up quickly! If you have your heart set on a fall engagement session, I recommend scheduling it as soon as you book me for your wedding. Fall foliage typically peaks between late September and mid November but does vary from state to state.
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Did you know that there's no rule saying you have to use engagement photos on your save-the-dates? I know that it's typical and popular, but many couples don't know that it's not a requirement!
With that said, if you’re hoping to use your engagement photos for your save the dates, we recommend scheduling your session at least two months before you plan to send out your save-the-dates. Between inclement weather, editing, designing, and printing, two months is generally a safe amount of time to make sure your images and cards are ready.
If your wedding is local, save the dates should be sent between 6-8 months before the wedding. For a destination wedding, you’ll want to send them out 8-10 months before the wedding.
Save-the-dates
Locations
ATLANTA & DMV ENGAGEMENT LOCATIONS
There are endless options for your session location and choosing your location is the first step in the planning process. It's important that we choose a location that is a reflection of you as a couple as well as cohesive with my portfolio and photography style. My favorite locations will almost always include natural elements such as trees, water, and vistas, but I also enjoy locations that have eye-catching architecture or design aesthetics. The best session locations are often meaningful places to you as a couple; however, I'm always happy to make recommendations if you want to defer that decision to me. From cityscapes to lavender fields to AirBnbs and beach towns, there's a perfect place for your session.
Meadowlark 1939
Swan House Mansion
CLASSIC & ELEGANT
NHG Studio
Vera Lofts
INDOOR STUDIO
Lincoln Memorial
Daughters of the American Revolution
Union Station
CLASSIC & ELEGANT
Peachtree St. Downtown
The High Museum
CITY-INSPIRED
Winn Park
Cator Woolford Garden
Atlanta Botanical Garden
OUTDOOR GREENERY
The Reach at The Kennedy Center
Larz Anderson House
National Arboretum
ARCHITECTURAL
The above locations are all beautiful but you're always welcomed to select a location that's completely unique and special to you. Keep in mind that some locations require a reservation and a fee.
ATLANTA
DC AREA
Georgetown
Blagden Alley
NEIGHBORHOODS
Goodstone Inn
Bishop's Garden
Tudor Place
OUTDOOR GREENERY
Destination Engagement Sessions
While most of our engagement sessions are in the Atlanta or DC area, I’ve photographed sessions everywhere from Amsterdam to New York City! If you have a location in mind, let me know! I would love to travel to document your session in a new place.
Here are some destinations that I recommend:
Salt Water Flats in Utah
Palm Springs, California
The Met Cloisters in NYC
The Cliffs of Moher in Ireland
The Amalfi Coast in Italy
Cannon Beach in Oregon
Vizcaya Garden in Florida
If you didn't already know, I love dogs, which is why I love when couples choose to incorporate pets into their session. Keep in mind that bringing a pet along often means that we’ll need to choose a pet friendly location.
I recommend planning for your pet to be at the first part of your session and then either dropping them off or having a friend take them home. We won’t use the pet in every single photo so it’s also nice to have a friend available to hold him or her in between shots.
If you’re going to bring a pet, I recommend exercising your pet before the session and bringing their favorite toy and treats! Depending on your pet’s fur type, it might also be a good idea to groom them before the shoot.
Pets
Outfits
TIPS FOR LOOKING YOUR BEST
When selecting outfits, I recommend keeping in mind the word “complement” rather than “match.” For example, if the groom-to-be is wearing a blue and pink pastel shirt, the bride-to-be may want to choose a long, soft blue dress. You want to choose “color-families,” such as neutrals or jewel tones, rather than the same exact color.
Two outfits are great, but there's nothing wrong with one solid outfit that you love. If you do two, I recommend saving your favorite outfit for later in the session when you'll usually feel more comfortable in front of the camera.
View this Pinterest board for visual inspiration.
GO TO
SHOES - Heels lengthen legs, but if your heels aren’t comfortable for walking, then bring an extra pair of shoes to slip into in between destinations.
PATTERNS - I love the way patterns photograph and add life to images! Just be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small as it will make your photo look a little too busy and distracting. Try to avoid stripes, polka dots, and trendy patterns like chevron.
CUT AND COMFORT - You'll photograph best if you feel your best! A super low cut top will limit the angles I can shoot you from and may leave you constantly worrying about your cleavage. Be sure to wear items you can sit, stand, walk, and twirl easily in.
Wardrobe Tips
Accessories
Where To Shop
Hair & Makeup
Manicure
Outfits
for the ladies
GO TO
Statement jewelry is a great way to add color or pattern to a simple dress.
Lace and tulle look amazing in photographs, too.
Dresses with lace sleeves are a great way to help slim arms, if that's a concern of yours.
Depending on your location, you might want to consider a flowy dress as they look great while walking and in photos with movement.
Choose an outfit you feel comfortable in, but don’t be afraid to dress up!
Other great ways to accessorize: leather jackets, floppy hats, a statement clutch, or a bow tying your hair back.
Accessories
Accessories
Where To Shop
Hair & Makeup
Manicure
Outfits
for the ladies
GO TO
Rent the Runway
ASOS
Morning Lavender
J. Crew
Anthropologie
Free People
Francesca’s
Jessakae
ModCloth
Shop Ruche
Hazel & Olive
Favorite Shops
Lulu's
Shabby Apple
Vici Dolls
Nordstrom
One Loved Babe
Arden
Filly Flair
Virginia Dare Dress Co.
Zara
Local vintage shops
Aritzia
Accessories
Where To Shop
Hair & Makeup
Manicure
Outfits
for the ladies
GO TO
Engagement sessions are the perfect time for a hair and makeup trial! Professionally-done hair & makeup lasts longer than typical hair & makeup. They also tend to hold up better for humidity and wind.
I think it’s so important that you look and feel your best for your engagement session, and if you’re planning to do a hair & makeup trial anyway, the engagement session is a great time to test how your hair & makeup look on camera.
Be sure to have your hair & makeup complete at least 30 minutes before our session starts and ask your makeup artist for a touch-up kit to bring along.
Hair & Makeup
Accessories
Where To Shop
Hair & Makeup
Manicure
Outfits
for the ladies
GO TO
There will probably be times during your session when I'm shooting your hands up close or the engagement ring on your finger, which means it’s a great idea to clean up your nails before your session. I recommend going for a neutral and timeless manicure and avoid any bright colors or distracting designs and lengths. We want to focus on your ring and not your fingers! Encourage your guy to clean up his nails too :)
Manicure
Accessories
Where To Shop
Hair & Makeup
Manicure
Outfits
for the ladies
GO TO
For your formal look, you can’t go wrong with a suit and tie. Consider pulling out that suit you had to wear last time you were a groomsman!
Layer with a blazer or you can even wear fitted jeans with this look.
Avoid small, busy patterns like checkers or plaid.
Softer, solid colors tend to photograph better than bright colors especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin.
Cozy sweaters layered over button ups are a great way to stay warm and stylish during the cooler months.
Avoid baseball caps and sweats, and be sure to get a fresh haircut prior to the session.
Wardrobe
Where To Shop
Outfits
for the gents
GO TO
Rent the Runway
ASOS
Suit Supply
J. Crew
Zara
Leather & Cotton
Jack Threads
Frank & Oak
Nordstrom
Billy Reid
Urban Outfitters
Wardrobe
Where To Shop
Outfits
for the gents
Inclement Weather
what to do if it rains
It’s typical for me to schedule two engagement session dates: a primary date and a rain date. Having two dates helps us make sure that your photos happen in a timely manner. Coordinating schedules can be tough and I've found that the best way to make sure you get the look they have in mind for their photos is to schedule two dates at the same time.
I'll check in the week of your engagement session to confirm the time & location we’re meeting and the weather. I know it takes a lot of time to get ready for engagement session and it’s the worst to get dressed up and drive out to your session only to have it rain.
The forecasts can change day by day, but if the weather looks like it won’t be great, I typically try to make the call at least 12 hours in advance.
When I can, I always try to take a photograph of your ring during your engagement session, so it’s a great idea to have it cleaned or clean it yourself beforehand. To clean at home, soak your ring in warm water with dishwashing soap for 20 to 40 minutes. Then gently brush the stone with a soft toothbrush, rinse, and repeat, if needed.
Ring Cleaning
Props
champagne is always a good idea
If you’re planning to bring props to your engagement session, I recommend including them only if they’re meaningful to you. Drinking coffee at a local coffee shop is nice if that’s where you met or where you spend a lot of time together; however, trying to fly a kite when it’s not a part of your relationship may come off as contrived and feel like a hassle. Avoid cheesy or trendy props like signs or matching jackets. The best 'prop' you can invest in is a gorgeous bouquet!
When it comes to posing for your engagement session, you don’t need to worry about a thing! I’ll guide you through the entire process beginning with “poses” that are easy and natural. If I tell you to do something that feels a little funny, it’s probably because I know it’s going to make the two of you laugh and that’s the photo I'm actually looking for!
Throughout your session, I’ll keep an eye on your hair, makeup, and outfits to make sure things stay in place. I want you to feel as relaxed as possible and enjoy your time together! Here's a few things to keep in mind:
- If you don't know where to look, look at each other and not the camera.
- If you don't know what to do with your hands, touch each other.
- Random cheek, neck, lip, and hand kisses are always encouraged.
- Relax your arms, always kiss with heads tilted, and remember to breathe!
"What do I do with
my hands"?
"What do I do
with my hands"?
POSING
Date Night
If you’re anything like me, you probably don’t get dressed up all that often, which means that the day of your engagement session is the perfect occasion for a date night or brunch if your session is in the morning!
The engagement session is another part of celebrating your love and heading off to a meal afterward is a great way to end the time.
After your session is complete, I’ll ship your film off to my lab in Utah. It normally takes them about 10 business days to send the digital files back to me, and then it takes me about a week to finalize your set of images. Unless we have a holiday closure, you can expect to receive your photographs 4 weeks after your session.
When to Expect Your Images
I know that this guide is long and hopefully it covers everything you need to know to prep for your engagement session! However if there is something I missed or you need a recommendation, feel free to email me:
hello@kiyahc.com