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ENGAGEMENT SESSION
PLANNING YOUR
choosing the perfect time, location, outfit & More!
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Welcome
A NOTE ABOUT THIS GUIDE
I'm so glad you opted to do an engagement session. 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 10-15 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.
Just so you know -- It’s normal to be a little nervous about your session. I still get nervous before having my photos taken. I forget what to do with my hands - and I do this for a living!
An engagement session also provides a "trial round" for all your vendors - hair, makeup, florals if you want - before the big day. You won't have to try to imagine it all coming together; you'll get to see how everything photographs and comes together on camera and have the freedom to make tweaks before the wedding day.
In this guide I'll cover what to wear, whether to bring pets & how to manage them, location ideas and more! If any questions come up, please reach out!
- mandi burnham
I recommend we do engagement photos anywhere from 2-12 months before the wedding. Many couples print engagement photos for wedding decor or save-the-dates.
Trust me - 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 have 4 brothers, so I can hold my own and we will tease and joke and have a good time. Plus, this'll help get bonus points with your girl.
The Guys
A NOTE TO
There isn’t a “good” or “bad” time to take your Engagement photos. I normally plan sessions based on a particular “look” a couple has in mind, spring flowers for example, or based on your timeframe for sending out save-the-dates, etc.
(Click here to learn more about recommended timing of Save-the-Dates.)
Sessions typically last about an hour and a half and when when possible— I love to begin sessions about 1.5 hours before sunset. I prefer to shoot when the sun is lower in the sky to avoid harsh shadows and bright sun patches. The first 1.5 hours after sunrise is also an ideal time to shoot at certain locations.
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 shooting and if your session takes place in the morning, the sun gets more harsh as it rises.
We’ll want to take advantage of every minute we have together before the sun goes down. If you’re wearing two outfits, save your favorite one for the second half, and if you’re wearing only one, arrive in that.
Choosing a date and time
TIME & LIGHT
use this link to find out the sunset time for your Engagement session date: https://www.almanac.com/astronomy/sun-rise-and-set#
Engagement sessions can take place all year. Most couples choose a season based on the location where they want to shoot or the timing of sending out save-the-dates.
A few things to keep in mind during each season:
Seasons
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Winter
hot cocoa and cozy scarves
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 shooting as early as 3:30pm 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.
Spring
fresh flowers and sunny days
As it starts to warm up again, leaves start to come back, some trees start to blossom, and the weather is still cool enough in Arizona to wear some layers or more formal clothing without dying of heat. A couple may choose Spring if they want blossoms or have another special request.
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Summer
lush green trees and grass
In spite of the heat, I love summer sessions! Because of the later sunset, sessions sometimes begin as late as 6pm. The trees and grass are really lush during the summer, which makes it an ideal season if green is a must have for you. Monsoon season does mean we have to watch the weather more than usual, however. I recommend bringing extra makeup, a change of clothes, and plenty of water. If you choose the Salt River as your location, we can get in the water!
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Fall
colorful leaves and snuggling close
Fall is one of the prettiest times of the year but also one of the busiest as it's Family Photo season. Because of the perfect weather, my schedule typically books up quickly! If you have your heart set on a fall engagement session, I recommend scheduling it as soon as you book!
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Locations
phoenix valley ENGAGEMENT LOCATIONS
It's extra special when couples choose a location for their session 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 Phoenix, while a local park or a desert landscape may be more fitting for a couple planning a more nature-inspired affair. The best session locations are often meaningful places to the couple; however, we’re also happy to make recommendations. From sunflower fields to apple picking and college campuses, the options for engagement session locations are endless!
Jefferson Memorial
Georgetown
Maryland State House
Capitol Hill
An old mansion
CLASSIC & ELEGANT
Eastport (Annapolis)
St. Michaels
The Narrows (Kent Island)
Naval Academy
Chestertown
COASTAL
Federal Hill
Downtown Annapolis
Fells Point
URBAN
The Narrows (Kent Island)
Terrapin Park
Jonas Green State Park
BEACH
A Vineyard
Tree & Flower Farms
Kinder Farm Park
Quiet Waters Park
Patapsaco Valley State Park
RUSTIC
Cooking class
Hiking
Sailing / Boating
ADVENTURE
the above locations are all beautiful but I also love exploring meaningful locations with my couples!
Outfits
TIPS FOR LOOKING YOUR BEST
Generally couples pick two outfits for an engagement session: a 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. And don’t forget a few accessories! Statement jewelry, cute shoes and classic watches are great ways to add detail to outfits.
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 ask 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 we’re actually looking for. Of course, if you feel really uncomfortable, you'll look uncomfortable, so just let me know if any pose ideas are deal breakers for you.
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
Inclement Weather
what to do if it rains
I’ll check in the week of your engagement session to confirm the time & location we’re meeting and report on the weather. I know it's a lot to get ready for engagement session and can be a real let down if the weather doesn't behave.
Let me know what works best for the two of you - if you want to take your chances, I am up for it! But if the weather looks like it won’t be great, let's try to make the call at least 4 hours in advance.
We are spoiled here in Arizona - we don't often have to cancel because of nasty weather. I actually had a session that could not be moved so we found a location where we hid under an overhang until the rain let up and then ran out for more photos. It worked great! All of that to say, I have some tricks up my sleeve. We can make it work if we need to. :)
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, a trying to fly a kite together when it’s not a part of your relationship may come off as contrived.
I know a pet is huge part of the 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 a pet friendly location.
Plan for your pet to be at the first part of your session and then either drop them off or have 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 shoot.
Pets
As soon as possible after your session is complete, I'll upload the images to be processed. It normally takes about 2 weeks to complete the gallery, especially if it's a busy season. Unless we have a holiday closure, you can expect to receive your engagement photos between 2 and 3 weeks after your session.
When to Expect Your Images
I try to incorporate details shots focusing on 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
I know that this guide is long and hopefully it covers everything you need to know to prep for your engagement session! However if there is something I missed, or you need a recommendation feel free to email
mandibphotos@gmail.com
THANK YOU!
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, we 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
find it fast
Heels or nude shoes 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 or cause and undesirable visual effect called moiré.
Softer, pastel colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin. I'll include some swatches of colors I consider to be "neutrals" that pair well with anything.
Wardrobe Tips
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
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Statement jewelry is a great way to add color or pattern to a simple dress.
Lace and tulle look amazing in photographs.
And dresses with lace sleeves are a great way to help slim arms.
Depending on your location, you might want to consider a fit and flare or a flowy dress!
They look great in walking and 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
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Rent the Runway
ASOS
Morning Lavender
J. Crew
Anthropologie
Free People
Francesca’s
Jessakae
ModCloth
Shop Ruche
Hazel & Olive
Favorite Shops
Lulu's
H&M
Shabby Apple
Vici Dolls
Nordstrom
One Loved Babe
Arden
Filly Flair
Virginia Dare Dress Co.
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
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Engagement sessions are the perfect time for a hair and makeup trial! Professionally done hair & makeup last longer than typical hair & makeup. They also tend to hold up better for humitiy and wind.
We 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 & makeup trial anyways, the engagement session is a great time to test how your hair & makeup look on camera.
Hair & Makeup
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
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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
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You can’t go wrong with a classic, well-tailored 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.
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
WHERE TO SHOP
Outfits
for the gents
find it fast
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