Hey there! I’m so excited to help you get ready for your engagement session. This is such a special moment in your love story—one that deserves to be captured in a way that feels real, relaxed, and unmistakably you. As a documentary-style wedding photographer based in Pittsburgh, my approach is all about creating space for genuine connection, meaningful memories, and photos that feel like stills from your personal love story.

 

Here are a few tips to help you prepare for a stress-free, story-driven engagement session:

 

 

1. Dress Like Yourselves (But a Little Elevated)

 

 

Your outfits should reflect your personality and relationship—not a Pinterest board version of someone else’s love story. Whether that means cozy jeans and boots at your favorite coffee shop or something dressier for a city stroll, go with clothing that feels comfortable and true to who you are.

 

Some practical engagement session outfit tips:

 

• Coordinate colors, but don’t match exactly.

• Choose clothes that let you move, snuggle, and spin around.

• Consider textures and layers—they photograph beautifully.

• Think about your location and the overall vibe: a mountaintop session feels different than a downtown one.

 

 

And remember—if you feel good, you’ll look good. Confidence is your best accessory.

 

 

2. Pick a Location That Means Something to You

 

 

Some of the best engagement photos I’ve captured happened in places that mattered—your first date spot, the park you walk your dog in, or the porch where you sip coffee on slow Saturdays. When a location is tied to your story, it naturally invites emotion and nostalgia into your images.

 

If you don’t have a spot in mind, I’ve got plenty of ideas based on your personality and vibe. From urban streets to dreamy overlooks to intimate at-home sessions, we’ll find something that feels like you. Bonus tip: Golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) gives the dreamiest, most romantic light.

 

 

3. Don’t Worry About Posing

 

 

It’s completely normal to feel a little awkward in front of the camera. The good news? You don’t have to “pose” perfectly. I’ll guide you gently, but I’m more interested in the in-between moments—the real smiles, the spontaneous laughter, the soft looks only the two of you share.

 

My approach is documentary-inspired, which means we’ll focus on capturing your connection, not just striking a pose. Trust me, your favorite photos will likely come from a moment you didn’t even realize was being captured.

 

 

4. Relax, Be Present, and Have Fun

 

 

Your engagement session isn’t just about pretty photos—it’s about freezing a chapter of your life you’ll want to remember forever. It’s a chance for us to build a connection before the wedding, and for you to slow down and simply enjoy being together.

 

So don’t stress. Be yourselves. Laugh a lot. And let the love you already have do most of the work. I’ll be there to document it all in a way that feels natural and true to your story.

 

 

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If you’re looking for a Pittsburgh engagement photographer who values real connection, storytelling, and images that let you relive the moment, I’d love to be part of this chapter in your journey.

 

Have questions or want to start planning your engagement session? Reach out—let’s create something meaningful together.