You’re engaged—congratulations! This is such a fun and meaningful chapter in your love story. I get it, you’ve probably never done this before! No need to worry. In this guide, I will go over everything you need to know. Just know, we are going to have FUN! (Even your fiance will be smiling, I promise)!

I love engagement sessions because it gives you a chance to “practice” in front of the camera, get to know me a bit before your big day, AND have this sweet season documented of course!

Location

Think about what reflects your personalities/relationship OR what vibe you’d like. Do you love nature walks or city skylines? Wichita offers everything from cozy urban spots in Downtown to beautiful natural areas like Botanica Gardens, Great Plains Nature Center, or even your family’s farm. Let’s start by asking yourselves these questions:

• Are you are an outdoorsy, adventurous couple? 

• Do you love to grab drinks at a local coffee shop or cocktail bar?

• Do you love the spot you were proposed to at?

• Are you country all the way? You might like a barn or places with horses.

• Is there someplace you’ve always wanted to visit? 

• Do you love to visit Art Museums? Thrift shops? 

• Do you have a home together already that you love?  

For photo examples of Wichita locations, check out my Wichita Location Guide here.

My couples can choose 1-2 locations as long as they are close enough together and on the same day. This also gives you the opportunity to have two different vibes if you can’t decide! 

Alas, if you have absolutely no idea what location fits your style, that’s okay! I can guide you to some popular spots, and help you choose 🙂 

Outfits

You will want to choose something that you feel good in! Make sure you can move well in it, that it highlights your best features and that you feel CONFIDENT in it! I encourage my couples to bring 2-3 outfits for variety (example would be one casual and one dressy!)

So what about outfit tips? Here are just a few: 

1. Think about your location and try to match the vibe. If you’re doing downtown, then classy or dressy would fit. If you’re doing Great Plains Nature Center, then casual like jeans would fit. 

2. Don’t match exactly. Rather, put complimentary colors together. If you have a patterned dress, pick one color in the pattern for your fiance to wear. 

3. Sleeves, layers and accessories look nice in photos. 

4. Flowy dresses and heels are flattering, and provide extra movement in photos!

5. Bring a cute coat or blanket if it’s cold out, just in case you need it.

6. When in doubt, go neutral. You’ll find that neutral colors look good in photos, bring the attention to your faces, and match any background. 

7. Head to Pinterest for inspo! Let me know if you need any help too!

Posing

It’s totally normal to feel a little nervous going in. It’s also normal that one person is a little more comfortable in front of the camera than the other. But trust me: you don’t have to know what you’re doing at all! I’ll guide you with natural prompts that help you relax, laugh, and just be yourselves. The goal is to capture genuine connection, not stiff poses.

Bring Meaningful Props

Incorporating something personal can make your session even more memorable—and a lot of fun!

Examples:

• Pets
• Champagne and glasses
• Your family’s vintage car
• An engagement cake
• Your favorite game
• Picnic basket and flowers
• Polaroid camera

Treat it like a date night

First of all, I joke that I’m your professional third wheel during the session, but also, why not keep the date night vibes going? Plan something after your session, like dinner or drinks, to make the day even more special. You’re already dressed up, right? Maybe let your guy choose if you’re feeling extra nice 😉

The week of your session

There are a few things you’ll want to do before your session:

1. Clean your ring and manicure your nails

2. Guys, get a haircut a week before your session

3. Iron your clothes. It will annoy you to see all those wrinkles in photos later on! 

4. Fill out the Pre-Engagement Questionnaire, and send any Pinterest board you have for inspo!

5. Plan to go on a date after the session! You’re going to look amazing and all cute already, right? Make a whole evening of it! I plan sessions around sunset hour, so the session will either end before or after dinner time. 

6. Pack your essentials

• A water bottle if it’s a hot day 

• A coat or umbrella if there might be bad weather

• A lint brush or comb might come in handy

• Both outfits, accessories, undergarments, shoes, etc. if a change is needed

Again, DON’T stress about bringing anything. This is just a fun addition if you want it!

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I schedule my session?

You can schedule anywhere from 4-12 months before your wedding date. Are you wanting pictures for Save the Dates? Want to use them for a guest book? This will help determine when to schedule.

What if the weather looks bad the day of our session?

If it’s raining or super windy, we can explore alternative indoor locations, or reschedule to another date.

Can we travel for your engagement session?

Sure! If the location is within 45 minutes of Wichita, there aren’t any travel fees. If it’s past that point, there is a small travel fee. Locations to travel to could include but are not limited to the Flint Hills, Manhattan, Kansas City, The Monument Rocks, your wedding venue, etc. 

What if I don’t know how to pose?

I will guide you every step of the way! My goal is to get you as relaxed and comfortable as possible. We will move, be silly, and have FUN! Think of it like a date with a hyped up third wheel. 

When will I receive my pictures back?

Within 2 weeks of your session, you will receive an email with your gallery! You can download to your phone, PC, etc. and print as you wish!

Can I bring my pets or kids?

Of course! If your kids are young, I suggest bringing a relative or friend to help hold them when they’re not in shots. We will get some with and some without! (This pretty much is the same rule for pets!)

Final thoughts

This session is about celebrating your love story. My job is to help you feel comfortable, capture authentic moments, and create beautiful images you’ll treasure forever. I’ve got you—from location planning to posing to timeline tips.

Engagement photos aren’t just about checking a box before the wedding—they’re about capturing this exciting season in your life. They’re also a great way to get comfortable in front of the camera before the big day.

If you’re ready to plan your engagement session in Wichita (or beyond), I’d love to help make it unforgettable. Let’s start planning your perfect shoot!