Bailey
ALEX & AUSTIN
My husband and I really never had professional photos taken and we were so glad to do an engagement shoot with Bailey to help us get more comfortable in front of the camera and play around with poses. This SERIOUSLY helped us on our wedding day and even showed in our pictures!
To help make planning your engagement session FUN rather than one more item on your to-do list, I created this guide for you, packed with all of my best secrets for getting the most out of your engagement experience.
Ready? Let’s do this :)
At your engagement session we get to celebrate something so special together. You’re going to be married for decades, but you only get to be engaged for this short period of time. Not only that, it gives you both a chance to be in front of my camera before you get married, which is going to make your wedding day experience feel so smooth, seamless and comfortable. I’m so excited to capture the only time in your lives when you get to be each other’s fiancés!
YOUR engagement season
For example, maybe you, or someone you know, can secure permission to a location that would otherwise be off-limits, like a beautiful private estate, sports stadium or uniquely Kansas City landmark. Maybe it’s a family farm, upscale hotel or even an airplane hangar. The sky is literally the limit! Spend a few minutes thinking about it and checking around. You’ll be surprised with what you come up with.
This is the time to think outside the box! I encourage you to brainstorm unique locations that you might have special access to that most people don’t.
My weekends fill up fast and far in advance. Schedule your session mid-week to ensure we can capture your session in your preferred season.
Plus, popular locations are far less crowded on weekdays. And what better use of an afternoon out of the office than spending it in love with your beau?
SCHEDuLING pro tip!
start between 3-5 PM
FALL:
start between 5-6 PM
Spring:
start between 6-7 PM
SUMMER:
start between 3-4 PM
winter:
session start times per season:
We’ll begin your session 2 hours before sunset, giving us time to warm up before “the golden hour,” when the light is looking its absolute best and the most flattering for you!
I’ll help you determine the best time to begin your engagement session, taking into consideration the time of sunset on your date.
golden hour:
worth the wait
When selecting your engagement session location(s), think about what types of backdrops - or styles - that stand out to you. Parks and gardens are gorgeous natural backdrops. Certain parts of the midtown and downtown areas can also photograph beautifully! When brainstorming, think about locations or landmarks that are meaningful to you two!
If you get stuck or need inspiration, check out the engagements section of my blog and keep browsing through this guide.
I know some great go-to locations that we can always explore, too. Just let me know what types of backdrops you’d like, and we'll go from there!
choosing locations
Blushes, tans, light pinks, faint blues, creams, grays, and whites will always result in more of a light and airy look!
BOLD GEM TONES
vs.
If you really want a (tasteful!) bold and bright look, only one of you should wear a bold color and the other stay in a solid neutral to avoid over-doing it!
SOFT PASTELS
SKIP. THE. SPRAY. TAN!!
Although it might seem counter-intuitive, I recommend that you do not get a spray tan before your session, even a few days prior, because it tends to photograph orange even when it’s applied subtly and by a professional. Your actual skin tone will photograph the most beautifully, promise :)
SKIP. THE. SPRAY. TAN!!
SKIP. THE. SPRAY. TAN!!
pro tip!
neons and overly busy patterns. (they tend to be very distracting and can alter the color of your skin in images!)
avoid! avoid! avoid!
most recommended colors:
ROMANTIC PASTELS:
blues & pinks are most flattering for skin tones!
NEUTRALS:
whites, grays, blacks & khakis set the perfect foundation
BOLD GEM TONES:
ruby reds, navy blue, emerald green (paired with neutrals!)
The colors and outfits you choose will (quite literally!) set the tone for your engagement photos. If choosing your outfits is stressing you out, my hope is that this guide will empower you to narrow down the style and feel you desire for your session. From there, your outfit selection will come more naturally!
choosing colors
WHEN IN DOUBT, DRESS IT UP
There is no such thing as “too dressed up” when it comes to your engagement session, so don’t be afraid to have a little fun! Remember, these images are celebrating this milestone moment in your lives, and we want these images to stand the test of time!
If you don’t want to add a new permanent piece to your collection, consider Rent the Runway so you don’t have to spend a lot to feel like a million bucks. Or splurge on that outfit you’ve been dying to add to your wardrobe!
styling basics
I get it. Your fur babies are like family. If Nora had been in our lives during our engagement/wedding season, I 1000% guarantee she would have been included in Vince’s and my photos! Fur babies not only complete your family, but they can also make the best additions to your session. Here are some tips to make the most of our time together:
- Let me know they’re coming! If you’d like to include your pup(s) in your session, let me know! Some portrait locations may not be pet-friendly, and I’ll be able to suggest some places that will be.
- Accessorize them. If you’re as meticulous about styling as me, consider choosing a collar or leash (or bow!) for your pet that complements your outfits.
- Bring a helper! Having a friend/family member help watch your pup is a must! It lets you two focus more on each other, and less on whether your pup is smiling for the camera. They can also help get your pup’s attention during photos and keep them entertained/hydrated when they’re not in a photo.
- Pack snacks. Make sure to bring all the things your pup will need to stay happy and entertained during their adventure. Water, treats, a toy or two (for getting their attention) can be a big help in keeping your pup happy and hydrated during our session.
- Let them exit early. I recommend including your pup in just one of our locations, or for about an hour of time. That way they won’t get too hot or fatigued and you two can have more time to focus on each other during your session. session. can have more time to focus on each other during your session.
including the fur babies
If there’s something that’s truly unique to you that you’d like included in your engagement session, I want to know about it! There’s no better way to personalize your session to make it extra special for you. Below are a few popular ways BPP couples often personalize their sessions:
Almost all of my couples opt to include a champagne pop during their session. When else do you have an excuse to pop a bottle of bubbly than at your actual engagement session? Let me know ahead of time if you plan to do this. Some portrait locations have stricter alcohol policies than others so I’ll help you pick the right location for yours.
unique locations
personalizing your session
pop the champagne!
This is the time to think outside the box! I encourage you to brainstorm unique locations that you might have special access to that most people don’t.
For example, maybe you, or someone you know, can secure permission to a location that would otherwise be off-limits, like a beautiful private estate, sports stadium or unique landmark. Maybe it’s a family property, upscale hotel or even an airplane hangar. The sky is literally the limit!
I’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! Where do I start?
Let’s talk about all of those ideas swirling around in your head! I’m here to help you and offer expert advice on what outfits, accessories, and locations will look best for your photos. Seriously, hit me up with alllll the questions. No question is too small!
We feel awkward in front of the camera and hate taking pictures. Can you help?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas! Where do I start?
help! we feel so awkward in front of the camera!
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
QUESTION 5
SESSION FAQ
We feel awkward in front of the camera and hate taking pictures. Can you help?
My dear, I photograph people for a living and even I feel awkward in front of the camera. Every! Single! Time! That’s why I’m here to help you through your engagement session, starting with this style guide. During our session I’ll walk you through different poses, prompts and games that bring out your most natural laughs and love so you won’t have to second guess yourself for a second. My goal is to keep things feeling energized throughout our session so it feels effortless and fun!
I’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! Where do I start?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas! Where do I start?
help! we feel so awkward in front of the camera!
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
QUESTION 5
Absolutely not! All of these tips are meant to help guide you through the planning process for your engagement photos. By no means are they mandatory or required :) Let’s talk about what tips you like and we’ll create the perfect session plan for you!
SESSION FAQ
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
Absolutely not! All of these tips are meant to help guide you through the planning process for your engagement photos. By no means are they mandatory or required :) Let’s talk about what tips you like and don’t like and we’ll create the perfect session plan for you!
We feel awkward in front of the camera and hate taking pictures. Can you help?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! Where do I start?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas! Where do I start?
help! we feel so awkward in front of the camera!
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
QUESTION 5
Absolutely not! All of these tips are meant to help guide you through the planning process for your engagement photos. By no means are they mandatory or required :) Let’s talk about what tips you like and we’ll create the perfect session plan for you!
SESSION FAQ
We feel awkward in front of the camera and hate taking pictures. Can you help?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! Where do I start?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
I will be monitoring the weather in the days leading up to our session together. If it looks like it’s going to be rainy or too cold I’ll contact you to discuss our options. We can either relocate to indoor locations or reschedule. No big deal!
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas! Where do I start?
help! we feel so awkward in front of the camera!
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
QUESTION 5
I will be monitoring the weather in the days leading up to our session together. If it looks like it’s going to be rainy or too cold I’ll contact you to discuss our options. We can either relocate to indoor locations or reschedule. No big deal!
SESSION FAQ
QUESTION 5
Paragraph
We feel awkward in front of the camera and hate taking pictures. Can you help?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! Where do I start?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas! Where do I start?
help! we feel so awkward in front of the camera!
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
QUESTION 5
SESSION FAQ
Skip. The. Spray. Tan!
Although it might seem counter-intuitive, I recommend that you do not get a spray tan before your session, even a few days prior, because it tends to photograph orange even when it’s applied subtly and by a professional. Your actual skin tone will photograph the most beautifully, promise :)
pro tip!
Whether it’s lash extensions or blown-out hair, professional hair and makeup will give you an extra boost of confidence in front of the camera, and it always photographs like a dream.
If you need a recommendation for hair and makeup, I’ve worked with the best in the business and am happy to offer recommendations.
bring in the pros:
hair & Makeup
Every woman (me included!) has an area of her body that she’s self-conscious about.
Three-quarter length sleeves create an awesome slimming effect on all arms. Jackets double as cute accessories and "problem fixers" too. Skinny straps or strapless dresses have the opposite effect on arms on camera.
Closed-toed heels elongate women’s legs, making them look fabulous.
flattering your features
Long, flowy dresses and skirts look amazing on camera because they bring extra movement to your images. Cute, shorter-length dresses photograph beautifully as well.
Dresses and skirts also flatter your figure like none other! I recommend avoiding pants (definitely shorts!) and saying yes to a dress or two!
Dresses and skirts tend to look most stunning on camera because they really flatter your figure. I recommend avoiding pants and shorts for your session, and saying yes to a dress or two!
Long, flowy dresses and skirts look amazing on camera because they bring extra movement to your images. Cute, shorter dresses photograph beautifully as well.
say yes to the dress
styling tips for her
Suit pants, dress pants or colored pants work best. Brown leather dress shoes complement almost every look, from a full suit to a blazer and colored pants. Ties, bowties, pocket squares, fun socks, belts, tie clips, suspenders, vests and watches are sharp complements to any guy’s outfit.
Long pants and closed-toed shoes are the most sophisticated and masculine looks for men. They draw attention away from your legs and feet and place it where you want it: on the love you two share.
Long pants and closed-toed shoes are the most sophisticated and masculine looks for men. They draw attention away from your legs and feet and place it where you want it: on the love you two share.
Suit pants, dress pants or colored pants work best. Brown leather dress shoes complement almost every look. Ties, bowties, pocket squares, fun socks, belts, tie clips, suspenders, vests and watches are sharp complements to any guy’s outfit.
it's all in the details
Next time you walk by a store like J. Crew, you’ll notice the male mannequins and models are always wearing several layers at once. Layers on men look great on camera, so even when it’s hot outside, trust me when I say that it’s worth an hour or two of discomfort for photos that will last you both a lifetime.
Blazers and jackets up the level of any look. If the weather permits, even consider adding a v-neck sweater with a pop of color from a long-sleeved collared shirt and tie underneath.
layered looks
pro tip:
Solid shades of gray or navy are a strong complement to most women’s outfits, whereas pinstripes or plaid patterns tend to distract the eye.
From James Bond to Don Draper, men look most striking in a well-tailored suit. If you don’t have one, now’s the perfect time to invest in something you’ll wear for the rest of your life!
From James Bond to Don Draper, men look most striking & polished in a well-tailored suit.
If you don’t have one, now’s the perfect time to invest in something you’ll wear for the rest of your life!
nothing beats a suit
styling tips for him
I’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! Where do I start?
engagement session FAQ
Let’s talk about all of those ideas swirling around in your head! I’m here to help you and offer expert advice on what outfits, accessories, and locations will look best for your photos. Seriously, hit me up with alllll the questions. No question is too small!
We feel awkward in front of the camera and hate taking pictures. Can you help?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas! Where do I start?
help! we feel so awkward in front of the camera!
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
QUESTION 5
engagement session FAQ
We feel awkward in front of the camera and hate taking pictures. Can you help?
My dear, I photograph people for a living and even I feel awkward in front of the camera. Every! Single! Time! That’s why I’m here to help you through your engagement session, starting with this style guide. During our session I’ll walk you through different poses, prompts and games that bring out your most natural laughs and love so you won’t have to second guess yourself for a second. My goal is to keep things feeling energized throughout our session so it feels effortless and fun!
I’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! Where do I start?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
engagement session FAQ
I’m overwhelmed with ideas! Where do I start?
help! we feel so awkward in front of the camera!
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
QUESTION 5
Absolutely not! All of these tips are meant to help guide you through the planning process for your engagement photos. By no means are they mandatory or required :) Let’s talk about what tips you like and we’ll create the perfect session plan for you!
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
Absolutely not! All of these tips are meant to help guide you through the planning process for your engagement photos. By no means are they mandatory or required :) Let’s talk about what tips you like and don’t like and we’ll create the perfect session plan for you!
We feel awkward in front of the camera and hate taking pictures. Can you help?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! Where do I start?
engagement session FAQ
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas! Where do I start?
help! we feel so awkward in front of the camera!
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
QUESTION 5
Absolutely not! All of these tips are meant to help guide you through the planning process for your engagement photos. By no means are they mandatory or required :) Let’s talk about what tips you like and we’ll create the perfect session plan for you!
We feel awkward in front of the camera and hate taking pictures. Can you help?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! Where do I start?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
I will be monitoring the weather in the days leading up to our session together. If it looks like it’s going to be rainy or too cold I’ll contact you to discuss our options. We can either relocate to indoor locations or reschedule. No big deal!
engagement session FAQ
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas! Where do I start?
help! we feel so awkward in front of the camera!
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
QUESTION 5
I will be monitoring the weather in the days leading up to our session together. If it looks like it’s going to be rainy or too cold I’ll contact you to discuss our options. We can either relocate to indoor locations or reschedule. No big deal!
QUESTION 5
Paragraph
We feel awkward in front of the camera and hate taking pictures. Can you help?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! Where do I start?
engagement session FAQ
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas! Where do I start?
help! we feel so awkward in front of the camera!
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
QUESTION 5
My weekends fill up fast and far in advance. Schedule your session mid-week to ensure we can capture your session in your preferred season.
Plus, popular locations are far less crowded on weekdays. And what better use of an afternoon out of the office than spending it in love with your beau?
SCHEDuLING pro tip!
session timing
We’ll begin your session 2 hours before sunset, giving us time to warm up before “the golden hour,” when the light is looking its absolute best and the most flattering for you!
I’ll help you determine the best time to begin your engagement session, taking into consideration the time of sunset on your date.
golden hour = the best hour
session start times per season:
winter:
start between 3-4 PM
Spring:
start between 5-6 PM
SUMMER:
start between 6-7 PM
FALL:
start between 3-5 PM
This is the time to think outside the box! I encourage you to brainstorm unique locations that you might have special access to that most people don’t. For example, maybe you, or someone you know, can access a beautiful private estate, sports stadium or uniquely Kansas City landmark.
Spend a few minutes thinking about it and checking around. You’ll be surprised with what you come up with.
For example, maybe you, or someone you know, can secure permission to a location that would otherwise be off-limits, like a beautiful private estate, sports stadium or uniquely Kansas City landmark. Maybe it’s a family farm, upscale hotel or even an airplane hangar. The sky is literally the limit! Spend a few minutes thinking about it and checking around. You’ll be surprised with what you come up with.
This is the time to think outside the box! I encourage you to brainstorm unique locations that you might have special access to that most people don’t.
Think outside the box
If you get stuck or need inspiration, check out the engagements section of my blog and keep browsing through this guide.
I know some great go-to locations that we can always explore, too. Just let me know what types of backdrops you’d like, and we'll go from there!
inspiration awaits
When selecting your engagement session location(s), think about what types of backdrops - or styles - that stand out to you. Parks and gardens are gorgeous natural backdrops. Certain parts of the midtown and downtown areas can also photograph beautifully! When brainstorming, think about locations or landmarks that are meaningful to you!
choosing your locations
location, location, location
Anamarie & David's session was at a vacation treehouse outside of Kansas City!
Do you want your engagement images to look extra polished and editorial? Dig into the details!
Just as you'll pay extra attention to your accessories and details on your wedding day, give your styling a little extra love for your engagement session! A statement necklace, cute scarf, or perfect earrings can go a long way!
accessories
BOLD GEM TONES
If you really want a (tasteful!) bold and bright look, only one of you should wear a bold color and the other stay in a solid neutral to avoid over-doing it!
ROMANTIC PASTELS
Blushes, tans, light pinks, faint blues, creams, grays, and whites will always result in more of a light and airy look!
The colors and outfits you choose will (quite literally!) set the tone for your engagement photos. If choosing your outfits is stressing you out, my hope is that this guide will empower you to narrow down the style and feel you desire for your session. From there, your outfit selection will come more naturally!
choosing colors
most recommended colors:
ROMANTIC PASTELS:
blues & pinks are most flattering for skin tones!
NEUTRALS:
whites, grays, blacks & khakis set the perfect foundation
colors to avoid!
Photographically speaking, not all colors are created equally!
Avoid ultra vibrant colors, neons, purples, and hot pinks as they tend to be very distracting.
BOLD GEM TONES:
ruby reds, navy blue, emerald green (paired with neutrals!)
when in doubt, dress it up
There is no such thing as “too dressed up” when it comes to your engagement session, so don’t be afraid to have a little fun! Remember, these images are celebrating this milestone moment in your lives, and we want these images to stand the test of time!
If you don’t want to add a new permanent piece to your collection, consider Rent the Runway so you don’t have to spend a lot to feel like a million bucks. Or splurge on that outfit you’ve been dying to add to your wardrobe!
styling your session
Skip the spray tan! Although it might seem counter-intuitive, I recommend that you do not get a spray tan before your session, even a few days prior, because it tends to photograph orange even when it’s applied subtly and by a professional. Your actual skin tone will photograph the most beautifully, promise :)
pro tip!
Whether it’s lash extensions or blown-out hair, professional hair and makeup will give you an extra boost of confidence in front of the camera, and it always photographs like a dream.
If you need a recommendation for hair and makeup, I’ve worked with the best in the business and am happy to offer recommendations.
bring in the pros:
hair & Makeup
Every woman (me included!) has an area of her body that she’s self-conscious about.
Three-quarter length sleeves create an awesome slimming effect on all arms. Jackets double as cute accessories and "problem fixers" too. Skinny straps or strapless dresses have the opposite effect on arms on camera.
Closed-toed heels elongate women’s legs, making them look fabulous.
flattering your features
Long, flowy dresses and skirts look amazing on camera because they bring extra movement to your images. Cute, shorter-length dresses photograph beautifully as well.
Dresses and skirts also flatter your figure like none other! I recommend avoiding pants (definitely shorts!) and saying yes to a dress or two!
Dresses and skirts tend to look most stunning on camera because they really flatter your figure. I recommend avoiding pants and shorts for your session, and saying yes to a dress or two!
Long, flowy dresses and skirts look amazing on camera because they bring extra movement to your images. Cute, shorter dresses photograph beautifully as well.
say yes to the dress
styling tips for her
Suit pants, dress pants or colored pants work best. Brown leather dress shoes complement almost every look, from a full suit to a blazer and colored pants. Ties, bowties, pocket squares, fun socks, belts, tie clips, suspenders, vests and watches are sharp complements to any guy’s outfit.
Long pants and closed-toed shoes are the most sophisticated and masculine looks for men. They draw attention away from your legs and feet and place it where you want it: on the love you two share.
Long pants and closed-toed shoes are the most sophisticated and masculine looks for men. They draw attention away from your legs and feet and place it where you want it: on the love you two share.
Suit pants, dress pants or colored pants work best. Brown leather dress shoes complement almost every look. Ties, bowties, pocket squares, fun socks, belts, tie clips, suspenders, vests and watches are sharp complements to any guy’s outfit.
it's all in the details
Next time you walk by a store like J. Crew, you’ll notice the male mannequins and models are always wearing several layers at once. Layers on men look great on camera, so even when it’s hot outside, trust me when I say that it’s worth an hour or two of discomfort for photos that will last you both a lifetime.
Blazers and jackets up the level of any look. If the weather permits, even consider adding a v-neck sweater with a pop of color from a long-sleeved collared shirt and tie underneath.
layered looks
pro tip:
Solid shades of gray or navy are a strong complement to most women’s outfits, whereas pinstripes or plaid patterns tend to distract the eye.
From James Bond to Don Draper, men look most striking in a well-tailored suit. If you don’t have one, now’s the perfect time to invest in something you’ll wear for the rest of your life!
From James Bond to Don Draper, men look most striking & polished in a well-tailored suit.
If you don’t have one, now’s the perfect time to invest in something you’ll wear for the rest of your life!
nothing beats a suit
styling tips for him
If you're like me, you're someone who draws inspiration from visuals and examples. That's why I've created this set of inspirational engagement session outfits, complete with accessories!
Go on, inspiration awaits :)
inspiration awaits
--previous
next --
OUTFITS |
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
OUTFITS |
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
OUTFITS |
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
OUTFITS |
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
OUTFITS |
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
OUTFITS |
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
OUTFITS |
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
OUTFITS |
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
OUTFITS |
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
personalizing your session
If there’s something that’s truly unique to you that you’d like included in your engagement session, I want to know about it! There’s no better way to personalize your session to make it extra special for you. Below are a few popular ways BPP couples often personalize their sessions:
Pop the champagne! Almost all of my couples opt to include a champagne pop during their session. When else do you have an excuse to pop a bottle of bubbly than at your actual engagement session? Let me know ahead of time if you plan to do this. Some portrait locations have stricter alcohol policies than others so I’ll help you pick the right location for yours.
Think off the beaten path! Is there a spot that’s extra meaningful to you and your relationship? That might be the perfect spot for your engagement session!
Include the fur babies! This is a big one for BPP couples, so I’ve devoted an entire section below to tips to help your pups shine during our session!
I get it. Your fur babies are like family. If Nora had been in our lives during our engagement/wedding season, I 1000% guarantee she would have been included in Vince’s and my photos! Fur babies not only complete your family, but they can also make the best additions to your session. Here are some tips to make the most of our time together:
- Let me know they’re coming! If you’d like to include your pup(s) in your session, let me know! Some portrait locations may not be pet-friendly, and I’ll be able to suggest some places that will be.
- Accessorize them. If you’re as meticulous about styling as me, consider choosing a collar or leash (or bow!) for your pet that complements your outfits.
- Bring a helper! Having a friend/family member help watch your pup is a must! It lets you two focus more on each other, and less on whether your pup is smiling for the camera. They can also help get your pup’s attention during photos and keep them entertained/hydrated when they’re not in a photo.
- Pack snacks. Make sure to bring all the things your pup will need to stay happy and entertained during their adventure. Water, treats, a toy or two (for getting their attention) can be a big help in keeping your pup happy and hydrated during our session.
- Let them exit early. I recommend including your pup in just one of our locations, or for about an hour of time. That way they won’t get too hot or fatigued and you two can have more time to focus on each other during your session. session. can have more time to focus on each other during your session.
including the fur babies
-- Pick a fun post-session date night spot
-- Pack a bag with:
- flats or flip-flops for walking between
photo spots
- outfits #2 (don’t forget your shoes
and accessories!)
- makeup for touch-ups
- water bottle (for warmer sessions)
- coat or cover-up (for colder sessions)
-- Clean your ring
-- Iron / steam your outfits
-- Mani/pedi time!
-- Select your outfits
-- Schedule your hair/makeup
appointments
-- Review this style guide for tips
-- Secure your date, time and location(s) with Bailey
session checklist
Online gallery with all of your final, edited, high-resolution images
2 weeks after
Sneak peek of some of my favorite moments we captured together :)
1 day after
Finalize all of your outfits, accessories, clean your ring, steam your clothes, and get your beauty rest!
1 day prior
Final email from Bailey compiling all of our plans (locations, schedule, weather report, etc.)
5 days prior
Schedule your hair/makeup trial, start thinking about color palettes and outfits
