Your Engagement Session Guide: Everything You Need to Know for Amazing Photos
- Rachel Bonnett
- Jul 12
- 10 min read
Your engagement session is more than just pretty pictures – it's your chance to get comfortable with your photographer and create stunning images for your wedding stationery and home.
Hey gorgeous brides! 💕
Can we talk about one of my absolute favorite parts of the wedding photography experience? Your engagement session! As someone who's been capturing love stories across Alabama and Georgia for over a decade, I can tell you that engagement sessions are pure magic – and they're included in every single one of my wedding packages because I believe in their power that much.
Today, I'm sharing everything you need to know to make your engagement session absolutely incredible, from planning and outfit selection to making the most of your time together. Let's dive in!
Why Engagement Sessions Are Game-Changers
Your engagement session isn't just about getting pretty photos (though we'll definitely get those!). Here's why it's so valuable:
For Your Wedding Day
Practice run with your photographer (that's me!)
Comfort level building for camera-shy couples
Understanding of how I work and direct you
Confidence boost for your wedding day photos
Relationship building – we become friends before your big day!
For Your Wedding Planning
Save-the-date photos for your announcements
Wedding website hero images
Guest book and reception decor
Thank you cards after the wedding
Home decor – beautiful prints for your first home together
For Your Relationship
Quality time together during busy planning season
Celebration of your engagement
Beautiful memories of this special time
Fun date experience
Confidence building as a couple
When to Schedule Your Engagement Session
Timing Options:
Soon After Engagement (2-4 months):
Fresh engagement excitement
Use photos for save-the-dates
Seasonal flexibility
Less wedding planning stress
6-8 Months Before Wedding:
Perfect for save-the-dates
Good weather planning time
Not too close to wedding stress
Ideal for annual timeline
2-3 Months Before Wedding:
Use for wedding website updates
Final detail planning inspiration
Close to wedding for consistency
May conflict with busy planning time
My recommendation: 6-8 months before your wedding gives us the best of everything!
Alabama & Georgia's Best Engagement Locations
Birmingham Area Favorites
Vulcan Park and Museum
Stunning city skyline views
Golden hour magic
Iconic Birmingham backdrop
Best time: 1 hour before sunset
Railroad Park
Urban meets nature
Beautiful walking paths
Seasonal flower displays
Great for casual, fun vibes
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Lush greenery year-round
Seasonal blooms
Variety of backdrops
Perfect for romantic couples
Sloss Furnaces
Industrial, edgy vibe
Unique architecture
Dramatic lighting
Great for adventurous couples
Huntsville Area Gems
Huntsville Botanical Garden
Seasonal beauty
Butterfly house option
Diverse landscapes
Perfect for nature lovers
Monte Sano State Park
Mountain views
Hiking trails
Rustic, natural feel
Adventure-loving couples
Bridge Street Town Centre
Urban sophistication
Shopping and dining backdrop
Modern architecture
Great for stylish couples
North Alabama Hidden Gems
Noccalula Falls (Gadsden)
Waterfall backdrop
Natural beauty
Hiking opportunities
Dramatic scenery
Dismals Canyon
Unique rock formations
Mystical atmosphere
Adventure session option
Truly one-of-a-kind
Georgia Locations (For My Georgia Couples!)
Piedmont Park (Atlanta)
City skyline views
Seasonal beauty
Walking paths
Urban elegance
Forsyth Park (Savannah)
Historic charm
Iconic fountain
Spanish moss
Southern romance
Blue Ridge Mountains
Mountain vistas
Seasonal colors
Hiking opportunities
Breathtaking views
Seasonal Engagement Session Planning
Spring Sessions (March-May)
Pros:
Blooming flowers everywhere
Perfect temperatures
Fresh, romantic feel
Longer daylight hours
Cons:
Unpredictable weather
Allergy considerations
Popular booking season
Best Locations:
Botanical gardens
Parks with flowering trees
Outdoor venues
Summer Sessions (June-August)
Pros:
Long daylight hours
Lush, green landscapes
Warm, golden light
Vacation-like feel
Cons:
Heat and humidity
Afternoon thunderstorms
Harsh midday sun
Best Locations:
Shaded parks
Waterfront areas
Indoor/outdoor combinations
Fall Sessions (September-November)
Pros:
Perfect weather
Gorgeous foliage
Golden hour magic
Cozy, romantic feel
Cons:
Most popular season
Books up quickly
Higher demand
Best Locations:
Mountain areas
Parks with deciduous trees
Rustic venues
Winter Sessions (December-February)
Pros:
Unique, cozy atmosphere
Less crowded locations
Dramatic lighting
Evergreen backdrops
Cons:
Limited daylight
Weather unpredictability
Bare trees
Best Locations:
Evergreen forests
Urban settings
Indoor venues
Outfit Selection Guide
The Perfect Engagement Session Wardrobe
Outfit #1: Dressy/Formal
Her: Flowy dress, nice blouse and skirt, or elegant jumpsuit
Him: Button-down shirt, dress pants, optional blazer
Colors: Jewel tones, pastels, or classic neutrals
Avoid: Busy patterns, logos, all black or all white
Outfit #2: Casual/Fun
Her: Cute top and jeans, casual dress, or trendy outfit
Him: Nice t-shirt or casual button-down, jeans or chinos
Colors: Coordinating but not matching
Avoid: Athletic wear, wrinkled clothes
Color Coordination Tips
Great Color Combinations:
Navy and blush pink
Cream and sage green
Burgundy and gold
Dusty blue and gray
Rust and cream
Colors to Avoid:
Neon or overly bright colors
All black (can be harsh in photos)
All white (can be blown out)
Busy patterns or logos
Colors that clash with location
Styling Tips
For Her:
Flowy fabrics photograph beautifully
Bring a light jacket or cardigan for variety
Comfortable shoes you can walk in
Consider the location when choosing heels
Bring touch-up makeup
For Him:
Well-fitted clothes make all the difference
Avoid wrinkled or ill-fitting shirts
Bring a jacket for variety
Consider suspenders or bow tie for fun
Comfortable shoes for walking
What to Expect During Your Session
Before We Meet
1 Week Before:
Final location confirmation
Weather backup plan discussion
Outfit final approval
Timeline confirmation
Day Of:
Arrive 15 minutes early
Bring water and snacks
Have backup outfits ready
Relax and have fun!
During the Session (60-90 Minutes)
First 15 Minutes:
Getting comfortable with camera
Easy poses and natural interactions
Finding your best angles
Warming up together
Main Session (45-60 Minutes):
Variety of poses and locations
Outfit changes
Different moods and styles
Candid moments and laughter
Final 15 Minutes:
Favorite location revisit
Final special shots
Sunset/golden hour magic
Celebration photos
My Directing Style
Natural posing that feels comfortable
Genuine interactions between you two
Movement and walking for candid shots
Prompts and activities to create real emotions
Variety in poses and expressions
Engagement Session Poses and Ideas
Classic Romantic Poses
Walking hand in hand
Forehead touches
Gentle kisses
Embracing from behind
Looking into each other's eyes
Fun and Playful Ideas
Piggyback rides
Dancing together
Laughing and joking
Playing games
Sharing inside jokes
Lifestyle Moments
Picnic setup
Reading together
Coffee shop visits
Farmers market stroll
Cooking together
Seasonal Activities
Spring: Flower picking, park walks
Summer: Beach visits, ice cream dates
Fall: Apple picking, cozy sweaters
Winter: Hot chocolate, holiday markets
Making the Most of Your Session
Before Your Session
Preparation Tips:
Get plenty of sleep the night before
Stay hydrated
Eat a good meal
Do something relaxing together
Trust your photographer (me!)
What to Bring:
Multiple outfit options
Comfortable walking shoes
Water and snacks
Any props you want to include
Positive attitudes!
During Your Session
How to Look Natural:
Focus on each other, not the camera
Talk and laugh together
Move naturally between poses
Trust my direction
Have fun with it!
Camera Confidence Tips:
Remember I'm there to make you look amazing
It's okay to feel awkward at first
Focus on your partner, not the lens
Laugh off any mistakes
Enjoy this time together
After Your Session
What Happens Next:
Photos delivered within 8 weeks
Online gallery for easy sharing
High-resolution downloads included
Print release for personal use
Wedding day confidence boost!
Using Your Engagement Photos
Wedding Planning Uses
Save-the-Dates:
Choose 1-2 favorite images
Consider seasonal timing
Include engagement date
Match your wedding style
Wedding Website:
Hero image for homepage
About us section photos
Gallery showcase
Social media sharing
Reception Decor:
Guest book alternative
Table number displays
Welcome sign photos
Slideshow during dinner
Personal Uses
Home Decor:
Canvas prints for living room
Framed photos for bedroom
Gallery wall creation
Holiday card photos
Gifts:
Parents and grandparents
Wedding party thank you gifts
Anniversary reminders
Future home memories
Weather and Backup Plans
Ideal Weather Conditions
Overcast skies: Perfect natural lighting
Golden hour: 1-2 hours before sunset
Mild temperatures: Comfortable for everyone
Light breeze: Great for flowy dresses
Weather Backup Plans
Light Rain:
Covered pavilions
Indoor/outdoor combinations
Umbrella props (can be romantic!)
Reschedule if needed
Extreme Weather:
Indoor locations ready
Flexible rescheduling policy
Safety always comes first
Alternative date options
Engagement Session Timeline
2-3 Months Before Session:
✅ Book your session date
✅ Discuss location preferences
✅ Start planning outfits
✅ Consider seasonal timing
2-3 Weeks Before:
✅ Finalize location and time
✅ Confirm outfit choices
✅ Check weather forecast
✅ Plan backup options
1 Week Before:
✅ Final confirmation call
✅ Outfit final approval
✅ Weather backup discussion
✅ Prepare for fun!
Day Of:
✅ Arrive early and relaxed
✅ Bring all planned items
✅ Trust your photographer
✅ Enjoy this special time!
Common Engagement Session Questions
"We're camera shy – will this be awkward?"
Absolutely not! Most of my couples feel this way initially. That's exactly why we do engagement sessions – to get comfortable together before your wedding day. I'll guide you through everything, and by the end, you'll feel like naturals!
"What if we don't like how we look in photos?"
This is my job! I know how to pose you, find your best angles, and capture you in the most flattering way. Plus, we'll review some shots during the session so you can see how amazing you look.
"Should we include our pets?"
I love including fur babies! Just let me know in advance so we can plan accordingly. Bring treats, toys, and maybe a helper to wrangle them between shots.
"What about props?"
Simple props can be fun – think books, blankets, flowers, or items that represent your relationship. Avoid anything too elaborate or distracting from the main focus: you two!
"How long until we see our photos?"
Your engagement photos are delivered within 8 weeks through an online gallery with high-resolution downloads and print release included.
Alabama & Georgia Engagement Session Inspiration
Rustic Romance
Barn venues
Open fields
Wooden bridges
Country roads
Vintage trucks
Urban Chic
City skylines
Historic districts
Modern architecture
Street art
Rooftop locations
Natural Beauty
Waterfalls
Mountain views
Beach scenes
Forest paths
Garden settings
Seasonal Themes
Spring blooms
Summer golden hour
Fall foliage
Winter coziness
Final Engagement Session Tips
From Your Photographer
My Top 5 Tips:
Relax and be yourselves – authenticity is beautiful
Focus on each other – not the camera
Wear what makes you feel confident – comfort shows
Trust the process – I've got you covered
Have fun – this is a celebration of your love!
Making It Special
Plan a date around your session
Celebrate afterward with dinner or drinks
Bring meaningful items if desired
Include family pets if they're important to you
Remember this is about your love story
Your Engagement Session Checklist
Planning Phase:
✅ Schedule session 6-8 months before wedding
✅ Choose location based on your style
✅ Plan outfits that coordinate but don't match
✅ Consider seasonal timing and weather
Preparation Phase:
✅ Get plenty of rest the night before
✅ Eat well and stay hydrated
✅ Prepare backup outfit options
✅ Bring water and snacks
Session Day:
✅ Arrive early and relaxed
✅ Focus on each other, not the camera
✅ Trust your photographer's direction
✅ Have fun and enjoy this special time!
After Session:
✅ Choose favorites for save-the-dates
✅ Share with family and friends
✅ Plan prints for home decor
✅ Get excited for wedding day photos!
Why I Include Engagement Sessions
As your wedding photographer, I include engagement sessions in every package because I believe they're essential for creating the best possible wedding day experience. Here's why:
For You:
Comfort and confidence on your wedding day
Beautiful photos for your wedding planning
Practice with posing and being photographed
Quality time together during busy planning season
For Me:
Understanding your personalities and dynamics
Learning what poses and angles work best for you
Building our relationship before your wedding day
Creating a comfortable, familiar experience
For Your Wedding Photos:
Better, more natural wedding day photos
Faster, more efficient wedding day timeline
Confident, relaxed couple on camera
Consistent style and relationship with your photographer
My Wedding Photography Packages (All Include Engagement Sessions!)
Intimate Elopement - $1,500
4 hours of wedding day coverage
1 photographer (me!)
USB with high-resolution images
Minimum 200 final edited photos
Engagement session included
$500 deposit to book
Essential Love Story - $2,500
8 hours of wedding day coverage
1 photographer (me!)
USB with high-resolution images
Minimum 400 final edited photos
Engagement session included
$500 deposit to book
Complete Celebration - $3,000
8 hours of wedding day coverage
2 photographers (me + Melissa)
USB with high-resolution images
100 4x6 prints
Glass print box
Minimum 500 final edited photos
Engagement session included
$500 deposit to book
Ultimate Experience - $3,500
10 hours of wedding day coverage
2 photographers (me + Melissa)
USB with high-resolution images
100 4x6 prints
Glass print box
Minimum 600 final edited photos
Engagement session included
$500 deposit to book
All packages include professional editing, online gallery access, and personal print release. Photos are delivered within 8 weeks, with sneak peeks shared right after your session!
What My Couples Say About Their Engagement Sessions
"Rachel made us feel so comfortable during our engagement session. We were nervous about being photographed, but she guided us through everything and made it so fun! The photos turned out absolutely beautiful, and we felt so much more confident for our wedding day." - Sarah & Michael
"Our engagement session with Rachel was like having a fun date with a friend who happened to have a camera! She captured our personalities perfectly, and we use those photos everywhere - our save-the-dates, wedding website, and they're hanging in our home now." - Emily & Jake
"I was worried about being awkward in front of the camera, but Rachel's engagement session completely changed that. By our wedding day, we felt like pros! Plus, the photos are gorgeous - we get compliments on them all the time." - Ashley & David
Ready to Book Your Engagement Session?
If you're planning a wedding in Alabama or Georgia, I'd love to capture this special time in your lives! Your engagement session is included in every wedding photography package, and I can't wait to get to know you both and create beautiful images that you'll treasure forever.
Here's what happens next:
Contact me to discuss your wedding and engagement session
Schedule a consultation to talk about your vision
Book your wedding package (engagement session included!)
Plan your engagement session 6-8 months before your wedding
Have an amazing time and get gorgeous photos!
Let's Create Magic Together!
Your engagement is such a special time, and I'd be honored to capture this chapter of your love story. From the nervous excitement of your first poses to the confident, joyful couple you'll become by the end of our session, I'll be there to document every beautiful moment.
Contact Rachel C Bonnett Photography:
Website: www.rcbphoto.com
Email: RachelBonnett@rcbphoto.com
Phone: 256-676-8106
Based in: Anniston, Alabama
Serving: Alabama and Georgia
Follow me on social media for daily inspiration:
Instagram: @rachelcbonnettphotography
Facebook: Rachel C Bonnett Photography LLC
Pinterest: @Rbonnett35
Next week, we're diving into something every bride needs to know: working with family dynamics on your wedding day! From managing family photo logistics to handling divorced parents and difficult relatives, I'm sharing all my insider tips for keeping everyone happy and your day stress-free.
I can't wait to meet you and start planning your engagement session! Every couple is unique, and I love customizing each session to reflect your personalities and love story. Whether you're adventurous hikers who want mountain views or urban lovers who prefer city backdrops, we'll create something perfectly you.
Your engagement session is just the beginning of our journey together, and I promise to make it fun, comfortable, and absolutely beautiful. Let's create some magic! ✨📸
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