Engagement Photography FAQ
Your love story deserves to be told with the same artistry and authenticity that will define your wedding day. Here, you’ll find everything you need to know about creating timeless engagement photographs.
Planning Your Engagement Session
When should we schedule our engagement session?
The perfect time is 6-12 months before your wedding, allowing you to use images for save-the-dates and wedding materials. However, there’s no wrong time to capture your love story—every moment of your journey together is worth documenting. Consider the season that speaks to your hearts, from autumn’s golden backdrop to spring’s wildflower meadows in the beautiful Pacific Northwest.
How long does an engagement session typically last?
Your session typically lasts 1.5 to 2 hours, giving your love story the time it deserves to unfold naturally. This isn’t about rushing through poses—it’s about creating space for authentic moments and genuine connections. The unhurried pace ensures every emotion is captured with the artistry your love deserves.
What’s the best time of day for our engagement photos?
The golden hours—just after sunrise or before sunset—offer the most romantic light, painting everything in warm, honeyed tones. However, your story might call for something different. The key is choosing a time that feels authentic to who you are as a couple, whether you’re early risers sharing morning coffee or drawn to moody afternoon light.
Location & Style
How do we choose the perfect location for our engagement session?
The most beautiful photographs happen in places that hold meaning for your love story—where you had your first date, got engaged, or simply feel most like yourselves. The Pacific Northwest offers incredible options: dramatic Oregon Coast cliffs, rolling Willamette Valley vineyards, Portland’s urban sophistication, or the wild beauty of the Columbia River Gorge. We can explore multiple locations if you’re drawn to variety.
What should we wear for our engagement photos?
Choose pieces that make you feel confident and authentically yourselves—clothes you’ll still love in twenty years. Think classic, timeless choices: flowing dresses, well-tailored jackets, interesting textures. Consider bringing two outfit options for variety. Coordinating doesn’t mean matching exactly—focus on complementary colors and similar formality levels. Your comfort and confidence matter more than any specific garment.
Can we include our pets in our engagement session?
Absolutely! Your pets are part of your family and love story. Including them adds joy and authenticity to your session—these images often become the most treasured because they capture your life as it truly is. We’ll plan for their comfort and energy levels, perhaps including them for a portion when they’re most cooperative.
The Session Experience
What if we’re not comfortable being photographed?
This feeling is completely natural! The most beautiful images happen when you forget about the camera and focus on each other. My approach helps you feel at ease from the first moment—we start slowly with gentle prompts that feel like spending time together rather than traditional posing. You’re not performing; you’re simply being yourselves while I document your connection.
Do you provide direction during the session?
Yes, but my direction is gentle and natural—I’m your guide, not a director. I might suggest you share a favorite memory or dance to a meaningful song. These prompts evoke real emotions while ensuring we capture beautiful variety. The goal is always to document who you truly are together, not create something that feels forced.
What happens if the weather doesn’t cooperate?
In the Pacific Northwest, we embrace every type of weather! Some of the most romantic photographs happen with nature’s artistic touch—soft overcast light, cozy rain, or dramatic storm clouds. If severe weather would make your session unpleasant, we’ll simply reschedule. Often, couples discover their “backup plan” produces their most beloved images.
After Your Session
How long will it take to receive our engagement photos?
Your gallery will be ready within 3-4 weeks. This timeframe allows for the careful attention your images deserve—each photograph is individually edited to ensure the highest standards of beauty and technical excellence. You’ll receive a beautifully curated collection that tells your complete love story.
How many photos will we receive from our engagement session?
You’ll receive 75-100 beautifully edited images that tell your complete story. This isn’t about quantity—every image is carefully selected for its beauty, emotion, and contribution to your narrative. Your gallery includes intimate close-ups, romantic portraits, candid moments, and artistic compositions, all professionally edited and high-resolution.
Can we use our engagement photos for our wedding stationery?
Absolutely! Your images are perfect for save-the-dates, invitations, programs, and thank-you cards. Many couples also incorporate them into their wedding day décor, guest books, or reception displays. All images come with full printing rights, so you’re free to use them however feels most meaningful to you.
Investment & Booking
What is the investment for an engagement session?
Your session is an investment in preserving this beautiful chapter with the artistry it deserves. The investment includes our time together, careful curation and professional editing, and a stunning gallery of 75-100 high-resolution photographs with full printing rights. For detailed pricing information, I’d love to connect personally to discuss your unique vision.
How far in advance should we book our engagement session?
I recommend booking 2-3 months in advance, especially for specific seasons or dates. This allows thoughtful planning for perfect location, timing, and conditions. However, if you’re working with a shorter timeline, please reach out—I’ll do everything possible to accommodate your needs and create something beautiful together.
Do you offer engagement sessions as part of wedding packages?
Yes! Many wedding collections include a complimentary engagement session. This time together helps us build a comfortable relationship before your wedding day, ensuring you feel completely at ease. It also provides gorgeous images for save-the-dates and wedding materials, creating a cohesive visual story from engagement through your celebration.
Special Considerations
Can we do our engagement session at multiple locations?
Absolutely! Multiple locations add wonderful variety—perhaps starting somewhere intimate like your first date spot, then moving to a dramatic natural setting. We’ll plan logistics carefully to ensure travel doesn’t detract from creative time. Each location should offer something unique while feeling authentic to your story.
What if we want to incorporate special elements or props?
Personal touches that hold special significance can beautifully enhance your story—vintage family ring boxes, meaningful artwork, or wine from where you got engaged. The key is choosing elements that feel natural and meaningful rather than forced. We’ll discuss any special items during planning to ensure seamless integration.
Do you travel for engagement sessions?
Yes! Love stories unfold in beautiful places, and I’m honored to travel to capture yours wherever feels most authentic. Whether it’s the Oregon Coast, a family vineyard, or a destination meaningful to your relationship, your session should happen where your hearts feel most at home. Travel fees vary by location.
Ready to begin planning your engagement session? I’d love to hear about your love story and discuss how we can create something beautiful together. Let’s connect and start planning this special celebration of your journey to the altar.
