Engagement Sessions
The magic of you
You may already have an idea on what an engagement session is or should be, and what ever those thoughts are we kindly ask that you box them up and put them in the recycling bin.
No expectations, just magic. Just intimately connecting with the one you love somewhere that heightens that connection. You live life. We document it. It's that simple. But we do know you have questions, so here is a guide with the answers.
I. Slow Down
We are not in a hurry, life moves fast but in this moment we do not. We will stop and talk, give you moments to just be with each other, and take breaks along the way. It's not about fitting as many photographs as possible into the time we have together, it is about allowing the two of you to spend time together while we photograph those interactions.
ii. Be Present
This session is about you and the connection that you have to each other, be present and put the focus on each other. No need to look at us, we will get your attention if we need it, feel free to just look at each other or the area together. Be present with each other whatever it is that you choose to do, do it together. Hold hands or lean into one another, remember there is no such thing as too close together in photographs.
iii. Shake it Off
Deep Breath. In. Out. In. Out. Let any tension you feel leave your body, we know what angles look good and what to do to make sure you look your best so take the opportunity to just relax and lean into your partner. One of the number one things that can ruin a session is a stiff body or a stiff attitude, so lets leave those behind.
iv. Go Somewhere Cool
Let's go somewhere that inspires you, somewhere that makes you feel. There are no limits here. We have photographed at parks and coffee shops and on mountain tops and beaches. The important thing here is to pick somewhere that matches who you are and lucky for you we are really good at finding those places.
v. Suit up (or don't)
Fashion is one of the biggest ways that someone expresses who they are as a person. An outfit can instantly give you a feel for how a person wants to be perceived and represented. Choose an outfit that makes you feel like you and expresses that. If couture gowns and suits are your thing go for it, if not don't feel pressured to make it that way. There are tons of general tips we could give you here, such as neutrals and pastel are often better than bright colors, or that small detailed patterns often don't photograph well, but the truth is that most rules are made to be broken and the most important thing is wearing something that fits well and makes you feel confident.
vi. Touch the butt
We aren't asking you to make out in front of us (and would prefer if you didn't), but to get closer and don't be scared to hold each other. As I mentioned there is no such thing as too close for photographs. Remember your words can not be present in the images so show your love through the way you hold hands snuggle close and look at each other.
vII. Make freakin Magic
Your journey is magic. Your love is magic. You are Magic. So if you can show up and be you then we can create magic.
"If you care about someone, and you got a little love in your heart, there ain't nothing you can't get through together."
Ted
(Ted Lasso)
Engagement sessions can take place anywhere from immediately following a proposal to just a few days before the wedding. We’ve found that there isn’t a “good” or “bad” time to take your photos. We normally plan sessions based on a particular “look” a couple has in mind, spring flowers for example, or based on schedules.
Sessions typically last about an hour and a half to two hours and when when we can—we love to begin sessions about one and a half hours before sunset. We prefer to shoot when the sun is lower in the sky to avoid harsh shadows and bright sun patches. The first two hours after sunrise is also an ideal time to shoot.
We schedule sessions during what we believe will be the best light of the day - which means that it’s super 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 more harsh as it rises.
Is there a "good" time to take photos?
TIME & LIGHT
Between our guidance and the 7 tips above we have no doubt you can rick your engagement session, but if you are type A to this next section is for you.
Details
a few more
While we shoot most of our engagement sessions between March and late November, sessions can take place all year. Most of our couples choose a season based on the location where they want to shoot.
A few things to keep in mind during each season:
Seasons
Spring
fresh flowers and sunny days
As with Fall, the weather in the Spring is perfect and because of this dates can fill up really fast. If you schedule a spring date, keep in mind the weather can be unpredictable and reschedules are a possibility.
Summer
walks on the beach hand in hand
In spite of the heat, we’re big fans of summer sessions! Because of the later sunset, sessions sometimes begin as late as 7pm. If you’re taking your engagement photos during the summer, we recommend bringing extra makeup and a few towels to make sure you stay fresh throughout your session.
Fall
colorful leaves and snuggling close
Fall is one of the prettiest times of the year in Texas and because of the perfect weather, our schedules typically book up quickly! If you have your heart set on a fall engagement session, we recommend scheduling it as soon as you book!
Winter
hot cocoa and cozy coats
If you’re planning to take your engagement photos during the winter, keep in mind that if your session takes place in the evening, we could begin shooting as early as 3:00pm to catch the sunset. We recommend dressing in layers so that in between photos you can warm up. Make sure you bring a little extra makeup and tissues in case your nose begins running.
"And when you said 'Hi' I forgot my dang name."
Angelica Schuyler
(Hamilton)
If your wedding is local, save the dates should be sent between 6 and 8 months before the wedding. For a destination wedding, you’ll want to send them out 8 to 10 months before the wedding.
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 your save-the-dates and printing, two months is generally a safe amount of time to make sure your images and cards are ready.
Save-the-dates
Destination Engagement Sessions
While we take most of our engagement sessions in the DFW area, We’ve photographed sessions everywhere. If you have a location in mind that is significant to the two of you, let us know because if our schedules align, we might be able to take your engagement photos outside of our normal area.
Travel fees may apply depending on the location and our availability.
Our dog is huge part of our family, which is why we 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.
We 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, we recommend exercising your pet before the session and bringing your pets favorite toy or 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 picking outfits we recommend keeping in mind the word “complement” rather than “match.” For example, if the groom-to-be is wearing a blue and pink pastel plaid shirt, the bride-to-be may want to choose a long, soft blue dress. It can also be a great idea to choose “color-families,” such as pastels or jewel tones.
We typically recommend one outfit for most of our shoots so we can spend our time getting great images! If you would like to wear an additional outfit, it will have an impact on the amount of time that we are able to spend shooting, so narrow things down as much as you can! Make sure it’s something that can be easily changed into at our chosen location (think back seat of a car…)
If you are looking for a bit of help styling please check out My Wedding Wardrobe or Gabrielle Hurwitz.
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Heels lengthen legs but if your heels aren’t comfortable for walking, bring an extra pair of shoes to slip into in between shots.
We love the way larger patterns photograph - just be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photo look a little too busy.
Softer, pastel colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin. We love bright, neon dresses, but we don’t love the neon reflection they add to your complexion.
Wardrobe Tips
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
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Statement jewelry is a great way to add color or pattern to a simple dress.
Lace and tulle look amazing in photographs.
And dresses with lace sleeves are a great way to help slim arms.
Depending on your location, you might want to consider a fit and flare or a flowy dress!
They look great in walking and photos with movement.
Choose an outfit you feel comfortable in, but don’t be afraid to dress up!
Accessories
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
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Rent the Runway
ASOS
Morning Lavender
J. Crew
Anthropologie
Free People
Francesca’s
Jessakae
ModCloth
Shop Ruche
Hazel & Olive
Favorite Shops
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
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Engagement sessions are the perfect time for a hair and makeup trial! Professionally done hair & makeup last longer than typical hair & makeup. They also tend to hold up better for humitiy and wind.
We think it’s so important that you look and feel your best for your engagement photos - and if you’re planning to do a hair & makeup trial anyways, the engagement session is a great time to test how your hair & makeup look on camera.
Hair & Makeup
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
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There will probably be times during your session when we’re shooting your hands holding or the engagement ring on your hand - which means it’s a good idea to clean up your nails before your session (this applies to the guys too!).
Manicure
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
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You can’t go wrong with a suit and tie. Layer with a blazer and a nice shirt - you can even wear jeans with this look.
Be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photo look a little too busy.
Softer, pastel 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.
Wardrobe
WHERE TO SHOP
Outfits
for the gents
on to the next
When we can, we always try to take a photo of your ring during your engagement session - so it’s a good idea to have it cleaned or clean it yourself before your shoot! 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
“She’s your lobster. Come on, you guys. It’s a known fact that lobsters fall in love and mate for life."
Phoebe
(friends)
Inclement Weather
what to do if it rains
While a little rain isn't always a deal breaker it may not what you were looking for in your engagement images. If it rains the day of your session we will work with you to get a new date rescheduled as soon as possible.
We’ll check in the week of your engagement session to confirm the time & location we’re meeting and the weather. We 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.
Let us know what works best for the two of you - but if the weather looks like it won’t be great, we typically try to make the call at least 12 hours in advance.
Props
champagne is always a good idea
If you’re planning to bring props to your engagement session, we recommend including them only if they’re meaningful to you. Shots of drinking coffee at a local coffee shop would be cute if that’s where you met; however, a trying to fly a kite together when it’s not a part of your relationship may come off as contrived.
As soon as possible after your session is complete, we'll work on getting you a few sneak peaks from the day. Unless we have a holiday closure, you can expect to receive your engagement photos between 3 and 4 weeks after your session.
When to Expect Your Images
We 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 we missed, or you need a recommendation feel free to email us.
contactus@nathanandzoey.com