choosing the perfect time, location, outfit & more!
Engagement Session
planning your
to THE MAIN WEBSITE
Second, you can showcase your personalities in a more casual setting that is significant to the two of you (and even include pets!). While they’re great for save-the-dates, I’ve taken engagement photos anywhere from 18 months in advance to a few days before the wedding.
There is a lot to think about when it comes to planning a session and since I get asked the same things over and over again, I thought it would be beneficial if I put together a guide that walks you through everything you need to know.
I’ll cover what to wear, whether to bring pets & how to manage them, location ideas and more!
I'm so excited to be working with you and can’t wait for our time together during your engagement session! It’s normal to be a little nervous about your session. I always tell people that I still get nervous before having my photos taken - and I do this for a living!
I'm big fans of engagement sessions for a few reasons. First, they allow you to get comfortable in front of the camera. It takes time for most couples to warm up to being photographed and understand how I pose. Timelines can be pretty tight on weddings days and 30 minutes may be all we have for portraits - which is why I’ve found that wedding day portraits turn out so much better when couples do engagement sessions ahead of time.
Welcome
I get it. Having your picture taken for 1-2 hours might not be in your top-10 favorite things to do. And at first you might feel sort of awkward being in front of the camera.
But I think you’ll find that by the end of the session, it’s a lot easier than you thought and you even had a little fun. I look forward to it because it’s a great opportunity for us all to hang out a bit before the wedding day.
The guys
A NOTE TO
Engagement sessions can take place anywhere from immediately following a proposal to just a few days before the wedding. I’ve found that there isn’t a “good” or “bad” time to take your photos. I normally plan sessions based on a particular “look” a couple has in mind, spring flowers or fall leaves, for example, or based on schedules.
Sessions typically last about an hour and a half and when we can—I love to begin sessions about 2-3 hours before sunset. I prefer to shoot when the sun is lower in the sky to avoid harsh shadows and bright sun patches.
I schedule sessions during, what I 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.
"GOOD" TIME TO TAKE PHOTOS?
Time & Light: is there a
While most engagement sessions are photographed between April and late November, sessions can take place all year. Most of my couples choose a season based on the location where they want to shoot.
A few things to keep in mind during each season:
Seasons
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 photographing as early as 2:30pm to catch the sunset. I 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.
snowfall, hot cocoa and cozy coats
Winter
Even though Spring begins in March, I typically don’t begin photographing for another 6 weeks because the weather in Virginia is still pretty chilly. When I schedule spring dates, I typically schedule both a primary date and a backup rain date.
fresh flowers and sunny days
Spring
In spite of the heat, I'm a big fan of summer sessions! Because of the later sunset, sessions sometimes begin as late as 6pm. If you’re taking your engagement photos during the summer, I recommend bringing extra makeup and a few towels to make sure you stay fresh throughout your session.
walks on the beach hand in hand
Summer
Fall is one of the prettiest times of the year on the East Coast. Because of the perfect weather and fall leaves, my schedules typically books quickly! If you have your heart set on a fall engagement session, I recommend scheduling it as soon as you book!
colorful leaves and snuggling close
Fall
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, I 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
Bear's Den Scenic Lookout
ADVENTURE
Virginia State Arboretum
Long Branch Farm
A Vineyard
RUSTIC
The above locations are all beautiful but we also love exploring meaningful locations with our couples!
Downtown Winchester
Downtown Middleburg
Handley Regional Library
URBAN
Oatlands Historic House*
Morven Park Grounds
Jefferson Memorial*
Great Marsh Estate*
CLASSIC & ELEGANT
I love when couples choose a location that complements their wedding. For example if you’re planning a chic, elegant wedding, it may be fitting to take your engagement portraits among the classic architecture in downtown DC, while a local park or flower-filled fields may be more fitting for a couple planning a more rustic affair.
The best session locations are often meaningful places to the couple; however, I'm also happy to make recommendations. Some locations* below do require a photography permit client will be invoiced for.
MARYLAND AND DC ENGAGEMENT LOCATIONS
Locations
I 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.
I 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, I 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 session.
Pets
Generally couples pick two outfits for an engagement session: a more formal outfit and a casual outfit. I recommend saving your favorite outfit for later in the session when couples usually feel more comfortable in front of the camera. Don’t forget to bring a few accessories! Statement necklaces, cute shoes and classic watches are great ways to add detail to outfits.
TIPS FOR LOOKING YOUR BEST
Outfits
on to the next
When picking outfits, I recommend keeping in mind the word “complement” rather than “match.” For example, if the groom is wearing a blue and pink pastel plaid shirt, the bride 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.
A good rule of thumb: pick 3 or so colors and spread them throughout your attire. Don't be afraid to mix a few subtle patterns or textures (such as linen).
And always keep the location in mind. If we're shooting in a field, where shoes that make sense in a field. If we are shooting on top of a cold mountain where something warm.
Choosing Outfits
for everyone
on to the next
Heels lengthen legs but if your heels aren’t comfortable for walking or we'll be in grass where shoes that make the most sense with your location.
I love the way larger patterns and textures (like linen) 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. I love bright yellow dresses but don’t love the yellow reflection they add to your complexion.
Wardrobe Tips
for the ladies
on to the next
Statement jewelry is a great way to to your outfit. Whether it's dangly pearl earrings or a simple gold bracelet, jewelry adds to your outfit and looks amazing in photographs.
Dresses with sleeves are a great way to help slim arms and also look great in walking and photos with movement.
Choose an outfit you feel comfortable in, but don’t be afraid to dress up!
Accessories
for the ladies
shop my PRIME favorites
on to the next
Rent the Runway
Morning Lavender
Petal & Pup
H&M
Baltic Born Clothing
LuLu's
Favorite Shops
for the ladies
I think it’s so important that you look and feel your best for your photos. Investing in professional hair and makeup can go a long way towards creating photos you love for years.
Professionally done hair & makeup last longer than typical hair & makeup. They also tend to hold up better in humidity and wind.
If you go this route, I recommend staying a bit “classic”.
If you’re planning to do any spray tans or waxing, schedule those for a few days before the session to give your skin time to recover.
Hair & Makeup
for the ladies
on to the next
You can’t go wrong with crisp button up. Or consider layering a blazer or sweater with jeans with this look.
Bowties are always a good idea.
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
for the gents
on to the next
When I can, I always try to take a photo of your rings. If possible, try to have your engagement ring cleaned or clean it yourself.
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.
The Rings
It’s typical to schedule two engagement session dates. A primary date and a rain date. Having two dates helps make sure that your photos happen in a timely manner. Coordinating schedules can be tough and I’ve found that the best way to make sure my couples get the look they have in mind for their photos is to schedule two dates at the same time.
I’ll check in the week of your engagement session to confirm the time & location we’re meeting and the weather. I know it takes a lot of time to get ready for an engagement session and it’s the worst to get dressed up and drive out to your session only to have it rain.
Let me know what works best for the two of you - but if the weather looks like it won’t be great, I typically try to make the call at least 12 hours in advance.
what to do if it rains
Inclement Weather
If you’re planning to bring props to your engagement session, I recommend including them only if they’re meaningful to you. Trying to fly a kite together, for example, when it’s not a part of your relationship may come off as contrived.
Chris and Sarah first met at a Wine Bar so they thought it would be really special to have a few images taken where they first met.
props?
should we bring
When it comes to posing for your engagement session, you don’t need to worry about a thing! I’ll guide you through the entire process beginning with “poses” that are super easy and natural. If I tell you to do something that feels a little funny, it’s probably because I know it’s going to make the two of you laugh - and that’s the photo I'm actually looking for.
Throughout your session, I’ll keep an eye on your hair, makeup and outfits to make sure things stay in place. I want you to feel as relaxed as possible and enjoy your time together!
"what do I do with my hands?"
posing
A note on
If you’re anything like me, you probably don’t get dressed up often. Which means that the day of your engagement session is the perfect occasion for a date night.
The engagement session is another part of celebrating your love and heading off to dinner is a great way to end the session!
Date Night
Unless we have a holiday, you can expect to receive your engagement photos between 3 and 4 weeks after your session.
Images
When to Expect Your
I can't wait to start planning with you and getting to know you! If you haven't scheduled your engagement session yet, let's get that in the books. Feel free to email us any time at sarah@sarahbottaphotography.com.
If you have any questions or would just like to chat, I'm here for you. I hope this guide helps make the process of planning your wedding details much easier and less stressful. I can't wait to see you soon! Thank you so much for taking the time to read through this guide!