If you just got engaged (yay!) and are wondering how to prep for your engagement session, I have some advice that might surprise you.
When prepping for your photo shoot, it doesn’t have to mean practicing poses in the mirror or bringing along a Pinterest board full of “must-have” shots.
The real secret? Show up ready to laugh, play, and simply enjoy being with your person.
Yep! That’s it! The secret sauce that easily gets overlooked in trying to make sure everything is “perfect”.
Take this as your invitation to bring it back to the soul of your session.
Connection.
That’s exactly what these two did during their engagement shoot at the St. Louis Art Museum. We got together without agenda, and just stayed really present in the moment together. There was no need for props or a shot list. We just existed together, and I captured the love that was already there in front of me. As a documentary St. Louis Wedding photographer, this is what I do best.
And if you’re wondering how to prep for your engagement session, that is what I would tell you. Don’t overthink it. The dynamic you have together, is enough.
For this beautiful shoot, the museum gave us the dreamiest backdrop. I mean, think: towering columns, ornate ceilings, and even the serene fountains and greenery outside. The architecture of the environment, matched with the couple’s natural chemistry, made every shot feel like it could belong in a cinematic masterpiece. Yes please!! From twirling under marble pillars to stealing kisses in front of Monet’s water lilies, every moment was a blend of history and their authentic connection.
And let’s talk outfits for a second. Ellie wore a breezy white dress with delicate straps and the perfect midi length. It was timeless, but not stuffy. So we had plenty of movement for dancing through galleries. Paired with soft blue block heels, her look was effortlessly cool.
Liam kept things classic with a crisp button-down, dark pants, and white sneakers. It was laid back but polished. And it was the perfect support look to Ellie’s look. Together, their style matched the museum’s elegant vibe without feeling overly formal. Win-win in my book!
But here’s the thing I want you to take away from these photos: none of this worked because they nailed a pose or held a perfect smile. It worked because they just sunk into being themselves and having FUN together. They laughed. Explored. They held hands and whispered secrets like no one else was around.
That’s where the magic happens.
So, if you’re wondering how to prep for your engagement session, here’s my surprising little secret: don’t overthink it. Seriously. The best thing you can do is show up ready to be fully present with your partner. Wear something that makes you feel good, pick a location that feels inspiring, and then let everything else go.
Because at the end of the day, these photo shoots aren’t about perfect smiles or posed portraits. In may book?
They’re about freezing the way your love feels right now.
And trust me, that’s always going to look incredible on camera.
