Engagement photography Guide

The most meaningful engagement photos come from thoughtful preparation, shared excitement, and the freedom to show up as yourselves. When you feel relaxed and connected, your chemistry leads the way. My approach to engagement sessions is candid, guided, and intentionally unforced—designed to feel less like a photoshoot and more like time well spent together.

Choose a Photographer Whose Style You Love

Before your session, spend time with your photographer’s portfolio and editing style. Notice how the images feel. Whether you’re drawn to light and airy tones or something moodier and more cinematic, choosing a style you genuinely love ensures your photos feel timeless and true to you. Film-inspired edits with soft contrast and gentle texture tend to age beautifully.

Let the Location Reflect You

The best locations are the ones where you feel most like yourselves. If hiking isn’t your thing, there’s no need to force a mountaintop session. Instead, choose a place that holds meaning or mirrors how you spend time together—coastal paths, quiet city streets, open fields, or somewhere woven into your story.

Brighter locations and earlier sessions lend themselves to lighter imagery, while evening light creates a deeper, more intimate mood.

Rest, Hydrate, and Slow Down

Looking and feeling your best starts with caring for your energy. Prioritize rest, drink water, and give yourselves some breathing room in the days leading up to your session. When you feel good, it shows—easy expressions, relaxed body language, and genuine connection always photograph best.

Choose clothing Outfits You Feel Good In

What you wear should feel comfortable, considered, and aligned with who you are. Confidence translates directly on camera, and comfort allows you to move naturally. Take care that your outfits are pressed and free of wrinkles.

Styling tips:

• Neutral and earthy tones photograph effortlessly and complement Victoria’s natural landscape.
• Soft textures and layers add depth and movement without distraction.
• Coordinated, not matching. Aim for harmony rather than identical outfits.
• Comfortable footwear is key, especially for beaches, trails, or uneven ground.
• Fit matters. Well-fitting pieces without slipping straps or heavy wrinkles keep the focus on you.
• Context counts. Let your outfits work with the location for a natural, cohesive feel.

Hair, Makeup & the Details

A light touch of hair and makeup can elevate your photos, but it should still feel like you. Fresh haircuts, soft styling, and minimal flyaway control go a long way. Clean, manicured nails are worth considering too—especially for close-up moments and ring shots.

Plan for the Weather

Victoria’s weather can be unpredictable, so layers are always a good idea. If rain appears, don’t stress—I bring clear umbrellas that photograph beautifully and keep the mood romantic and relaxed.

Plan your route ahead of time so you arrive calm and unhurried. Sessions typically begin 60–90 minutes before sunset, when the light is at its softest. Music is always welcome—feel free to share a playlist to help set the tone.

Let Movement Lead

The most natural images come from motion. Walking, laughing, leaning in, and pausing together allow your connection to unfold organically. Think of your session as a date, not a performance. I’ll guide you gently, and you’re always welcome to adjust or speak up if something doesn’t feel right.

The best photos are the ones where you forget about the camera and focus on each other.

Arrive Early and Relax

The best engagement photos come from thoughtful preparation, shared excitement, and the freedom to be yourselves. My goal is to make your session stress-free, playful, and full of genuine connection.

A Note on Super 8 Video

If your session includes Super 8 film, the experience is even more feeling-forward. Super 8 captures movement, light, and subtle in-between moments in a way that feels nostalgic and timeless. Flowing fabrics, relaxed pacing, and natural motion translate especially beautifully on film. Rather than posing, we’ll focus on presence—letting moments unfold naturally as they’re documented frame by frame.