Hi friends! Today I’m sharing some tips for your engagement session. Brides, listen up!

How long before my wedding should my engagement session be?

It varies! If you’re getting married in one year, you would want to be photographed within the first three months so you can allot time for invitations to go out (which typically takes 6-8 months). Alternatively, if you’re getting married in six months, I recommend you do your engagement session within the first month.

Should your Engagement Photographer be the same person as your Wedding Photographer?

Absolutely! You get to try your cake, hear your DJ, touch paper samples, and test everything before your wedding day. Why not make a connection with your photographer prior to your wedding? As an engagement photographer and a wedding photographer myself, I would love to build a friendship with you!

How do I choose where to have my Engagement Session?

Ask yourself: do you want to have the same look as your wedding or have a contrasting look with the seasons?

You could choose a location similar to your wedding venue or choose one that contrasts. For example, getting married in Big Sur in September means you could do sessions on the beach or Lake Tahoe in the snow.

What should I wear?

For her: two looks, first being comfortable and casual with layers, and the second really dressing it up. Think of it this way: on your wedding day, you’ll be in a wedding dress and it’s helpful to wear something formal to know what to anticipate the day of.

For him: two looks, the first being casual and the second being more formal. Be sure that  your looks compliment hers in color and style.

Should I get my hair and makeup done?

Yes. If you get your hair and makeup done for your engagement shoot, then you’ll know what it feels like to have hair and makeup done for the wedding.

Above all, what’s the most important?

Do what makes you feel confident! 

It’s okay if you have a glass of bubbly before, but just remember that this isn’t about pretending to be models. It’s meant to be fun and showcase your relationship!

I hope you enjoyed these engagement session tips from Amandarose. Amandarose is a bi-coastal owner of AGS Photo Art for the West and East Coast. She is based in Carmel Valley, CA. Her style is authentic, romantic, and timeless fine art wedding photography. She loves photographing proposals, engagements, and weddings. You can contact her here.