Portrait & Engagement Sessions
Engagement sessions are meant to feel relaxed, natural, and true to you. This guide is here to help you feel prepared going into your session—so you can focus less on the logistics and more on simply being present together.
What To Expect
Most sessions last around 60 minutes. This gives us time to move around, explore your location, and capture a variety of moments without anything feeling rushed.
You don’t need to worry about posing—I’ll guide you through everything in a way that feels natural and easy. The focus is less on perfect poses and more on real interaction, movement, and connection.
Think of it more like spending time together while I document it, rather than a traditional photoshoot.
Choosing the Right Season & Light
Every season offers something a little different, so there’s no one “best” time—just what fits your vision.
Spring brings fresh greenery and blooming flowers
Summer is full and vibrant with longer days (though it can be warm)
Fall offers rich tones and changing leaves
Winter is more minimal, but can feel calm and atmospheric—especially with snow
More important than the season, though, is the light.
For the most flattering, natural look, sessions are scheduled during golden hour—shortly after sunrise or about 1–1.5 hours before sunset.
This soft, even light makes a huge difference in how your images feel. When choosing a location, it’s important to keep timing (and any permit restrictions or hours) in mind.
Choosing a Location
The best location is one that feels like you.
That could be somewhere meaningful—like where you had your first date—or simply a place that matches the overall feel you’re drawn to.
Some couples love something more scenic and open, while others prefer a city feel or something more intimate and everyday. There’s no wrong choice—it just depends on the story you want your photos to tell.
Most sessions are centered around one area, and we’ll walk through nearby spots to create variety along the way.
Final Notes
Pets are always welcome! However, if you plan to include them, I recommend having a friend or family member help by bringing them for part of the session and taking them home afterward. That way, we can capture a few moments with them while still keeping the rest of the session relaxed and focused on you both.
Turnaround time is generally 3-4 weeks. If you will need any of the images for save the dates or any other reason—keep this in mind when planning your session date.
Location Ideas
The National Mall & Monuments (permit required)
Capitol Building, Library of Congress & Supreme Court area
Capitol Hill neighborhood
Eastern Market
Washington National Cathedral & Gardens
Georgetown
Meridian Hill Park
Union Market
Blagden Alley
National Portrait Gallery / National Gallery of Art
Smithsonian Museums
Navy Yard / Yards Park
Kennedy Center
National Arboretum (permit required; limited availability)
Brookside Gardens (permit required)
Old Town Alexandria
Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory (Baltimore)
Terrapin Beach Nature Park
You can also choose something more personal—your home, your neighborhood, or a favorite coffee shop or bookstore.
If you’re unsure, narrowing it down to a couple of options is a great place to start—I’m always happy to help you decide.
What To Wear & General Styling Tips
The most important thing is to wear something that feels like you.
When you feel comfortable and confident, it naturally shows in your photos. Your outfits should reflect your personal style while complementing each other without feeling overly styled.
Styling:
Choose colors that complement each other (not matching exactly, but not clashing)
Avoid overly busy patterns (this will take focus away from you)
Neutral and softer tones tend to photograph best (avoid neon, unless that’s your thing!)
Make sure everything is pressed / ironed / steamed beforehand
Keep makeup polished but natural (unless bold or glam is your usual style)
Plan for weather—wind can affect hair, so bring small touch-up items if needed
Bring comfortable shoes if we’ll be walking between spots
If you don’t feel comfortable in your outfit, don’t wear it. Feeling good is the biggest key to looking good in your photos.
