How to Make Your Engagement Shoot a Success: 7 Proven Tips from a Philadelphia Luxury Wedding Photographer

Your engagement session isn’t just about photos—it’s about celebrating the two of you, the way you really are. It’s about slowing down, having fun, and letting me capture what makes your connection beautiful and real. As a wedding photographer in Philadelphia PA, specializing in luxury editorial wedding photography, I help couples feel comfortable, confident, and completely themselves during their session.

Bartram’s House & Gardens, South Philly

/ For More Info: https://www.bartramsgarden.org/photo-permission/

Get Comfortable

This is where we get to know each other. Your wedding day will feel so much easier once you’ve had this chance to see how I work and relax in front of my camera. I’ll guide you through everything—how to stand, where to look, what to do with your hands—so nothing feels forced or awkward. If there are certain things you’re nervous about, let me know. My job is to make sure you both feel good and look your best.

IKEA, King of Prussia, PA

Make it Yours

I love when couples bring their story into the session. Choose a location that means something to you—your favorite park, your neighborhood, the beach where you spend weekends together. Or pick one of the top wedding venues in Philadelphia like the College of Physicians of Philadelphia or another of the best venues in Philadelphia for timeless, elegant backdrops. Want to include your dog, pop some champagne, or just kick off your shoes and run through the sand? Yes. Let’s do it. The more personal we make it, the more the images will feel like you.

Valley Forge National Park

/ For More Info: https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/filmingandphotography.htm

Find the Best Light

We’ll plan your session around the most flattering light of the day—usually just after sunrise or before sunset, when everything is soft and golden. If that timing doesn’t work, don’t worry. I can help find the right spot, even in full sun or indoors, to keep your photos beautiful and natural. Different seasons have their own charm too—so whatever time of year you’re planning, we’ll make it shine.

Philadelphia Art Museum

For More Info: https://philamuseum.org/visit/tips-policies#group-photos

Dress for YOU

Your outfits should feel like you, only a little elevated. I recommend complementary colors, simple patterns, and pieces you feel confident moving in. Avoid anything you’ll need to fuss with constantly or that doesn’t feel like your style. If you’re unsure, I’m happy to help you plan looks that fit your location and vibe. And feel free to bring an extra option so we can change it up mid‑session.

Just Be Together

You don’t have to know how to “pose.” You just have to show up and love on each other. I’ll direct you enough to keep things moving, but the best moments always come when you stop thinking about the camera and just focus on each other. Laugh, hug, dance—whatever feels like you. That’s what I’ll capture.

Popago Park, Phoenix, AZ

Plan Ahead

If you’re using your engagement photos for save‑the‑dates, let’s aim to shoot 6–10 months before the wedding so you have plenty of time for edits and prints. We’ll also build in a rain plan if needed, and I always recommend keeping your schedule light that day so you can fully enjoy the experience.

UMMMs Ice Cream Parlor, Burlington, NJ

/ For More Info: https://www.ummmicp.net/

Enjoy the Moment

Think of this as a date night. Plan something fun afterward and treat the session as part of the celebration. When you relax and have fun, that joy shows through in your photos—and that’s exactly what we want.

Norristown Farm Park, Norristown, PA

/ For More Info: https://www.montgomerycountypa.gov/874/Norristown-Farm-Park

You, Together

Engagement sessions are about you, the way you really are when no one’s looking. My goal is to make you feel seen, comfortable, and confident so your photos feel timeless and true. Whether you’re planning a College of Physicians wedding, exploring the best wedding venues Philadelphia has to offer, or just want to highlight your favorite corner of this city, I’ll help you make it unforgettable.
If you have questions about what to wear, where to go, or how to make it yours, just ask—I’m here to help every step of the way.
I can’t wait to create something beautiful with you.