Your engagement session is more than just a photo shoot — it’s an opportunity to create images that authentically represent you as a couple. But where do you start when it comes to deciding how you want your session to look and feel? Before choosing outfits, locations, or even the time of year, it’s important to identify the overall mood and style you want your photos to convey.

In this post, I’ll guide you through the process of discovering your engagement session style, offering practical tips and questions to help you pinpoint what feels most “you.” By the end, you’ll feel confident and excited to plan a session that truly reflects your relationship.

Why Style Matters

The style of your engagement session sets the tone for your photos. Do you want soft, romantic images that feel timeless, or bold and colorful shots that highlight your playful side? The choices you make — like outfits, locations, and even the season — will work together to bring your vision to life.

Your engagement session is also a celebration of your unique connection. Whether your relationship is rooted in shared adventures, quiet moments, or vibrant energy, the style of your session should reflect who you are as a couple.

Questions to Guide Your Vision

Before diving into specifics, take some time to think about what you want your engagement session to represent. Here are a few key questions to help guide your vision:

1. What Do You Love About Your Favorite Photos?

Think about photos that catch your eye — whether they’re pictures of you, friends, or even photos you’ve seen online. Are they soft and romantic, bold and colorful, or perhaps a mix of both?

If you’re drawn to light and airy images, you might prefer neutral tones and natural settings like fields or beaches. If bold and dramatic shots appeal to you, you might consider vibrant outfits and urban backdrops. Identifying what you love will provide clarity as we plan your session.

2. What’s Meaningful to Your Relationship?

Your engagement session is a chance to tell your story. Are there hobbies, locations, or activities that are significant to your relationship? For example:

Did you bond over hiking? Consider a session in a scenic outdoor location.
Do you share a favorite coffee shop? Let’s incorporate it into the shoot.
Did you meet in a particular city or neighborhood? A stroll through its streets could provide a meaningful backdrop.

These personal touches make your photos feel authentic and special.

3. Casual or Formal?

Some couples envision their engagement session as relaxed and playful, while others prefer a more polished and elegant vibe. You don’t have to choose just one — many couples opt for one casual outfit and one dressier look to get a mix of both.

Think about what feels natural for you. If you’re not a “formal” couple, there’s no need to force it. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and confident in your photos.

4. What Colors or Tones Make You Feel Your Best?

The colors you choose will play a big role in the overall feel of your session. Soft neutrals like cream, blush, and light blue create a romantic, timeless look, while bold colors like emerald, mustard, or deep red can add vibrancy and energy.

Consider not only what you love visually but also what makes you feel your best. Confidence shines through in photos, so choose colors and tones that you’re excited to wear.

Bringing Your Vision to Life

Once you’ve reflected on these questions, the answers will naturally guide the next steps in planning your session. Here’s how your style influences other aspects of the shoot:

1. Choosing Outfits

Your session style will help determine the kinds of outfits that feel most fitting. For example:

A romantic, light-filled session might call for flowy dresses, soft colors, and delicate details.
A bold and energetic shoot might inspire you to wear bright colors, statement pieces, or edgy patterns.
A casual, playful vibe could include jeans, cozy sweaters, or outfits inspired by your favorite activities.

Pro Tip: Coordination is key, but matching isn’t necessary. Aim for outfits that complement each other without being too similar.

2. Picking Locations

Your preferred style also shapes where we’ll shoot. A light and romantic look might work beautifully in a park or by the water, while an urban, modern vibe could shine in a downtown area with striking architecture.

Think about locations that align with your vision and hold personal meaning. Even seemingly ordinary places — like your favorite bookstore or the street where you had your first date — can provide unique and memorable backdrops.

3. Deciding on Timing and Season

The time of year and day can enhance the mood of your session.

Spring: Blooming flowers and pastel colors are perfect for light and airy sessions.
Summer: Golden hour light complements vibrant colors and adventurous settings.
Fall: Rich tones and autumn foliage add warmth to romantic or dramatic styles.
Winter: Soft, muted light pairs beautifully with cozy and intimate vibes.

Golden hour — the hour before sunset — is ideal for most styles, as the light is soft and flattering. Depending on your season and location, we’ll plan your session accordingly.

Creating a Session That Feels Like You

Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to approach your engagement session style. The goal is to create photos that reflect your relationship and feel true to who you are as a couple. Here are a few final tips to help you bring it all together:

Be Open to Collaboration: Your photographer is here to help! Share your vision, and we’ll work together to make it a reality.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels like “you,” go for it—even if it’s unconventional.
Prioritize Comfort: Feeling comfortable and confident is key to great photos, so choose outfits, locations, and details that put you at ease.
Embrace the Moment: Your engagement session is a chance to celebrate your love and enjoy each other’s company. Don’t stress about perfection — authenticity is what makes your photos special.

Final Thoughts

Your engagement session should feel like a celebration of your unique story. By taking the time to reflect on your style and preferences, you can create photos that truly resonate with who you are as a couple. Whether you lean toward soft and romantic, bold and colorful, or something entirely your own, your session is about showcasing the connection that makes your love story one of a kind.

Stay tuned for the next post in this series, where I’ll share tips for choosing the perfect time of year for your engagement session and how it can complement your personal style.

Previous post in this series: How to prepare for your engagement session

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Discovering your engagement session style: A guide to making your photos uniquely you