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ENGAGEMENT SESSION
PLANNING YOUR
choosing the perfect time, location, outfit & More!
Welcome
A NOTE ABOUT THIS GUIDE
I am so excited to be working with you and I can’t wait to spend time together during your engagement session! If you're feeling a little nervous about your photoshoot, that's totally normal. I still get nervous before having our photos taken - and I've been a PRO for 18 years!
I'm a big fan of engagement sessions for a few reasons.
First, they allow you to get comfortable being photographed by me. For most couples, it takes a little time to warm up to the camera and feel confident in my ability to get the perfect photo. I've found that wedding day portraits turn out so much better when couples have an engagement session ahead of time to gain confidence in front of the camera.
Second, engagement sessions allow you to showcase your personalities in a more casual setting that is significant to the two of you. Plus, you can include your 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 no right or wrong time to celebrate this special season of life.
A lot goes into planning an engagement photoshoot. To make things easier for you, I put together this guide to walk 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!
- Warmly, Jana
I get it, having your picture taken for 1-2 hours might not be in your top-10 favorite things to do during your downtime. But I think you’ll find that by the end of the session, it’s a lot easier than you thought, and you might even have some fun. I promise you will be just fine, and even thank me for a painless process. I really look forward to hanging out a bit before your wedding day and your bride-to-be will be so happy to have these special photos together.
The Guys
A NOTE TO
Engagement sessions can take place at any time, 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. We normally plan your session based on a particular “look” you have in mind, like spring flowers or fall leaves, or simply based on our schedules.
Sessions typically last about 2 hours and when I can—I love to begin sessions about two to three hours before sunset. I prefer to shoot when the sun is lower in the sky so I can capture that signature dreamy light in your images. This is also the best time to avoid harsh shadows and bright sun patches. The first two hours after sunrise is another ideal time to shoot.
I try to 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 shooting and if your session takes place in the morning, the sun will get more harsh as it continues rising.
Is there a "good" time to take photos?
TIME & LIGHT
While I shoot most engagement sessions between late April and early November, sessions can take place all year. Most of my couples choose a season based on the location where they want to shoot.
Here are a few things to keep in mind during each season:
Seasons
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Winter
snowfall, hot cocoa, and cozy coats
If you’re planning to take your engagement photos during the winter, keep in mind that the sun sets early and we may need to begin shooting as early as 2:30pm to catch the sunset. I recommend dressing in layers so you can warm up between photos. Make sure you bring a little extra makeup and tissues in case your nose begins running or your eyes are like mine and water in the cold air.
Spring
fresh flowers and sunny days
Even though spring begins in March, we typically don’t begin shooting for another 6 weeks because the buds don't start showing just yet. When scheduling spring dates, I like to schedule both a primary date and a rain date from the start. Blooming trees are ideal for spring sessions, so occasionally we move the session date to time the trees looking their best.
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Summer
walks in the stream, hand in hand
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 we're taking your engagement photos during the summer, I recommend bringing extra makeup and blotting papers to make sure you stay fresh throughout your session. I will typically have bug spray and water but not a bad idea to bring those too.
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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, and printing, two months is generally a safe amount of time to make sure your images and cards are ready.
Save-the-Dates
Locations
ENGAGEMENT Session LOCATIONS
The best session locations are often meaningful places to you; however, I'm happy to make recommendations based on a style or vibe you want. Another location choosing strategy is thinking about your location as a complement to your wedding venue. For example, if you’re planning a chic, elegant wedding, it may be fitting to take your engagement portraits among the classic architecture, while a local park or flower-filled field may be more fitting for a couple planning a more rustic affair. From ski slopes to old growth forests to apple picking and college campuses, the options for engagement sessions are endless!
Penn State Campus
Georgetown
Ben Franklin Parkway
Old Town Alexandria
A Historic Mansion
CLASSIC & ELEGANT
Longwood Gardens
Hershey Gardens
Rhoneymeade Arboretum
Mount Assisi Gardens
The Arboretum at Penn State
The Alumni Garden -PSU
Gardens
Downtown Bellefonte
Center City Philadelphia
Fells Point, MD
Federal Hill, MD
The Strip District, Pittsburgh
URBAN
Rothrock State Forest
Alan Seeger Natural Area
Black Moshannon State Park
Greenwood Furnace State Park
Bald Eagle State Park
Colyer Lake Area
Hartman Center
Woods & water
A Vineyard / Winery
Tree & Flower Farms
Rooted Farmstead
Penn State Ag Fields
RUSTIC
Cooking class
Hiking
Kayaking / Boating
ADVENTURE
The above locations are all beautiful
but I also love exploring your meaningful locations.
Destination Engagement Sessions
While I photograph most of my engagement sessions in the Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia area, I’d love to talk further about your ideas. If you have a location in mind that is significant to the two of you, let me know! If our schedules align, I might be able to take your engagement photos outside of my normal area.
Travel fees may apply depending on the location and my availability.
Our dog & my horse are a huge part of our family, which is why 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 at least one 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 include your pet in every single photo, so it’s 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 and treats! Depending on your pet’s fur type, it might also be a good idea to groom them before the shoot and bring a lint roller.
Furry Friends
Outfits
TIPS FOR LOOKING YOUR BEST
When picking outfits, I 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.
Generally, couples pick two outfits for an engagement session: a more formal outfit and a casual outfit. I recommend wearing your favorite outfit first in the session, when you are still getting comfortable in front of the camera. And don’t forget to bring a few accessories! Statement necklaces, scarves, hats, cute shoes, and classic watches are great ways to add detail to outfits.
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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.
I 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 and neutral colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin. Also, it's okay to wear white! You are the bride-to-be after all.
Wardrobe Tips
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
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Statement jewelry or a scarf is a great way to add color or pattern to a simple dress.
Lace and tulle also look amazing in photographs. Did you know dresses with lace sleeves help slim arms in photos?
Depending on your location, you might want to consider a fit and flare or a flowy dress! They look great in 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
find it fast
By A Thread Boutique
Lock Boutique
Rent the Runway
ASOS
Morning Lavender
J. Crew
Anthropologie
Free People
Francesca’s
Jessakae
ModCloth
Favorite Shops
Lulu's
H&M
Shabby Apple
Vici Dolls
Nordstrom
One Loved Babe
Arden
Filly Flair
Virginia Dare Dress Co.
Shop Ruche
Hazel & Olive
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
find it fast
Engagement sessions are the perfect time for a hair and makeup trial! Professionally done hair and makeup will last longer than typical hair and makeup. They also tend to hold up better for humidity and wind.
I 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 and makeup trial anyways, the engagement session is a great time to test out the look on camera.
Hair & Makeup
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
find it fast
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
find it fast
You can’t go wrong with a suit and tie. Consider pulling out that suit you had to wear last time you were a groomsmen!
Layer with a blazer and a fun tie - you can even wear jeans with this look.
Bowties are always a good idea. But maybe you're not a suit and tie guy, that's okay too. A comfy flannel with canvas pants always fit the woodsy vibe!
Be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photo look a little too busy. 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
find it fast
Harpers - State College
Rent the Runway
ASOS
Suit Supply
J. Crew
Zara
Leather & Cotton
Jack Threads
Frank & Oak
Nordstrom
H&M
Urban Outfitters
Wardrobe
WHERE TO SHOP
Outfits
for the gents
Inclement Weather
what to do if it rains
It’s typical to schedule two session dates: A primary date and a rain date. Having two dates picked in advance helps us make sure that your photos happen in a timely manner, regardless of the weather. 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.
I'll check in the week of your engagement session to confirm the time and location we’re meeting, and the weather. I know it takes a lot of time to get ready for your 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 12-24 hours in advance. Sometimes we wait till just a few hours before your hair and makeup appointment to make our best educated guess.
I 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
Props
champagne is always a good idea
If you’re planning to bring props to your engagement session, I 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, trying to fly a kite together for the first time when it’s not a part of your relationship may look staged and inauthentic.
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"?
"What do I do
with my hands"?
POSING
Date Night
If you’re anything like me, you probably don’t get dressed up all that often. Which means that the day of your engagement session is the perfect occasion for a date night (or brunch if your session is in the morning!)
The engagement session is another part of celebrating your love and heading off to dinner is a great way to end the session!
After your session is complete, I will send you a preview in just a few days. If your engagement session was over the weekend, you can expect your preview as soon as Monday and if we met up during the week, I'll have that preview to you the very next day with files ready for you to share. Unless I have a holiday closure, sick kiddo, or a random life circumstance you can expect to receive your full gallery 2 weeks after your session.
When to Expect Your Images
Hopefully this covers everything you need to know to prep for your engagement session! However, if there is anything you need to ask or run by me, feel free to call, text or email me.
814-769-3557
janakscott@gmail.com
THANK YOU!
