choosing the perfect time, location, outfit & more!
Engagement Session
planning your
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Engagement sessions are the perfect opportunity to showcase your personalities in a setting that means something to you—whether it’s a favorite park, the place you first met, or even at home with your pets. It’s a time to be yourselves, creating relaxed, genuine memories. These photos are perfect for save-the-dates, and we’ve captured sessions anywhere from 18 months before the wedding to just a few days prior.
We know there’s a lot to consider, so we’ve put together a guide to make planning easy. It covers everything from what to wear, bringing pets, and choosing the perfect location, so you’ll feel prepared, confident, and excited for your session!
We’re so excited to be working with you and can’t wait for your engagement session! It’s completely normal to feel a little nervous—trust us, we get it! Even though we do this for a living, we still get those butterflies before our own photoshoots.
Engagement sessions are one of our favorites because they give you the chance to get comfortable in front of the camera and let us capture your genuine connection. Most couples need a little time to warm up to being photographed, and with the fast pace of a wedding day, those 30 minutes for portraits can go by in a flash. That’s why we’ve found that wedding day portraits always turn out more relaxed and natural when couples have had the time to practice during their engagement session. It’s all about making sure you feel at ease, so you can focus on what really matters—each other.
Welcome
We get it. Having your picture taken for an hour might not be in your top-10 favorite things to do during your downtime. 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 look forward to it because it’s a great opportunity for us all to hang out a bit before the wedding day.
The guys
A NOTE TO
Engagement sessions can take place anytime, from the joy right after a proposal to just days before your wedding. There’s no perfect timing—it’s about what feels right for you, whether it’s spring’s soft blooms, autumn’s rich colors, or simply when your schedules align.
Sessions usually last about an hour, and we love starting two hours before sunset, when the light is warm and wraps you in a golden glow. There’s something so magical about those quiet moments as the sun sets, or the peaceful light just after sunrise that perfectly captures your connection.
We plan sessions around this dreamy light, so being on time is key. Arriving late to an evening session means risking that perfect golden hour, and in the morning, the gentle glow quickly fades into harsher light.
"GOOD" TIME TO TAKE PHOTOS?
Time & Light: is there a
While we shoot most of our engagement sessions between April and late October, sessions can take place all year. Most of our couples choose a season based on the location where they want to shoot.
A few things to keep in mind during each season:
Seasons
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 2:30pm to catch the sunset. We 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.
snowfall, hot cocoa and cozy coats
Winter
Spring is a beautiful time for engagement sessions, with everything coming back to life. The world warms up, shades of green reappear, and vibrant spring blooms add a touch of magic to every shot. It’s the perfect season for capturing fresh, joyful moments surrounded by the colors and energy of new beginnings.
fresh flowers and sunny days
Spring
Despite the heat, we absolutely love summer sessions! With longer days and later sunsets, sessions often start as late as 6 PM, allowing us to capture those golden evening moments. If you’re planning a summer engagement session, we recommend bringing a bit of extra makeup and a few towels to help you stay cool and fresh throughout. It’s all about making sure you feel comfortable and radiant as we capture your love in that beautiful summer glow.
walks on the beach hand in hand
Summer
Fall is one of the most beautiful seasons on the East Coast, with its stunning colors and perfect weather. Because it’s such a popular time for photos, our schedule tends to fill up quickly! If you’re dreaming of a fall engagement session, we recommend booking as soon as you can to secure your spot during this magical time of year.
colorful leaves and snuggling close
Fall
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
Pins in Dublin
A favorite bar
A cozy in home session
Recreate a favorite date
Date night
Inniswoods
Tall Pines at Hoover
Franklin Park
Schiller Park
Scioto Audubon Center
Nature Based
The above locations are all beautiful but we also love exploring meaningful locations with our couples!
Alum Creek
Ravine at Park of Roses
Quarry Trails
Creekside Gahanna
Water Elements
Scioto Mile
German Village
LeVeque
Columbus Museum of Art
Downtown
Zurie Studio
Que Studio
BeChanged Studio
Studios
Jeffrey Mansion
The Supreme Court
The State House
The Main Library
Topiary Garden
CLASSIC & ELEGANT
We love 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 downtown, while a local park or flower-filled fields may be more fitting for a couple planning a more rustic affair.
The best session locations are often meaningful places to the couple; however, we’re also happy to make recommendations.
columbus, ohio
Locations
While most of our engagement sessions take place in the Columbus area, we’ve had the joy of photographing couples in stunning locations from New York City to Munich, Germany. If you have a location that holds special meaning to you both, let us know! If our schedules align, we’d love the chance to capture your engagement photos in a place that’s truly meaningful to your story.
Please note that travel fees may apply, depending on the location and our availability.
Engagement sessions
destination
We 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.
We 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 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, we 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
When choosing outfits for your engagement session, think about how you can *complement* each other rather than matching exactly. For example, if the groom-to-be wears a blue and pink pastel plaid shirt, the bride-to-be might choose a soft blue dress that pairs beautifully. This creates a harmonious look without feeling overly coordinated, letting your connection take center stage.
You might also choose colors within the same family, like soft pastels for a romantic vibe or rich jewel tones for a more vibrant feel. Most couples pick one outfit for their session, keeping things simple and focused on the moment. If you'd like to include a second look, we’re happy to make it work seamlessly into your time together!
TIPS FOR LOOKING YOUR BEST
Outfits
on to the next
A good rule of thumb when selecting outfits is to choose about three colors and incorporate them throughout your attire. This creates a cohesive look that feels polished without being too matchy. Don’t be afraid to mix in subtle patterns or textures, like a soft floral print, a plaid shirt, or a touch of linen—these details add depth and interest to your photos.
Always keep your location in mind when planning your outfits. If we’re shooting in a lush green field, for example, a light green dress might blend in too much with the surroundings. Instead, opt for colors that contrast with the setting, like soft blushes or deep blues, to help you stand out beautifully against the backdrop. This way, you’ll stay the focus of the photos while complementing the scenery.
Choosing Outfits
for everyone
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Heels lengthen legs but if your heels aren’t comfortable for walking or we'll be in grass, bring an extra pair of shoes to slip into in between shots.
We love the way larger patterns and textures (like linen) 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 colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin. We love bright, neon dresses, but we don’t love the neon reflection they add to your complexion.
Wardrobe Tips
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 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
for the ladies
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Able
Zara
Mango
Sezane
Hill House Home
Reformation
Rachel Pally
Nuuly
Christy Dawn
Rylee & Cru
Clad & Cloth
Ivy City
Shopbop
Everlane
Rent the Runway
ASOS
Morning Lavender
J. Crew
Anthropologie
Free People
Jessakae
Petal & Pup
H&M
Vici Dolls
Virginia Dare Dress Co.
Baltic Born Clothing
Madewell
Kate + Grace Boutique
Favorite Shops
for the ladies
We think it’s so important that you look and feel your best for your photos. Investing in professional hair and makeup can go a long way towards creating photos you love for years. I personally love Eigensee Artistry and Denise Chesser for makeup and hair!
Professionally done hair & makeup last longer than typical hair & makeup. They also tend to hold up better in humidity and wind.
If you go this route, we recommend staying a bit “classic”. Now probably isn’t the best time to try out that new contouring technique you saw on TikTok.
If you’re planning to do any spray tans or waxing, schedule those for a few days before the session to give your skin time to recover.
Hair & Makeup
for the ladies
on to the next
You can’t go wrong with crisp button up. Or consider layering a blazer or sweater with 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
for the gents
on to the next
Wardrobe
for the gents
on to the next
Rent the Runway
ASOS
Suit Supply
J. Crew
Zara
Leather & Cotton
Jack Threads
Frank & Oak
Nordstrom
Cuts
H&M
Urban Outfitters
Madewell
Lululemon
Everlane
Banana Republic
Mango
Reiss
Alex Mill
Untuckit
Amazon - GoodThreads
Bonobos
Abercrombie
Rag & Bone
When we can, we always try to take a photo of your rings while you're getting ready. If possible, try to have your engagement ring cleaned or clean it yourself.
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.
The Rings
If the weather doesn’t cooperate, we have a few options to ensure your session is still everything you hoped for. We can always reschedule for a sunnier day, or shift to a beautiful indoor location that offers a cozy atmosphere and plenty of natural light.
That said, if you’ve been dreaming about a specific outdoor spot—like a scenic overlook, a blooming garden, or your favorite park—rescheduling is often the best choice. This allows us to capture the location at its best, ensuring your vision comes to life just the way you imagined. We’ll work with you to find the next available date that suits your schedule, so you don’t have to compromise on those perfect backdrops.
what to do if it rains
Inclement Weather
If you’re planning to bring props to your engagement session, we recommend including them only if they’re meaningful to you.
Shots drinking coffee at a local coffee shop would be cute if that’s where you met or coffee shops play a significant role in your relationship; however, trying to fly a kite together when it’s not a part of your relationship may come off as contrived.
props?
should we bring
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 we’re 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?"
posing
A note on
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!
Date Night
You can expect your engagement photos within 2 weeks—but honestly, I usually deliver even sooner! I’m all about making sure you get to relive those moments as quickly as possible, so I dive right into editing soon after your shoot. It’s one of the perks of hiring someone who’s a bit of a workaholic—I love what I do, and I know how excited you are to see your photos!
Images
When to Expect Your
We 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 we missed, or you need a recommendation feel free to email
asteriaphoto@gmail.com