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ENGAGEMENT SESSION
PLANNING YOUR
choosing the perfect time, location, outfit & More!
Welcome
A NOTE ABOUT THIS GUIDE
I am looking forward to be working with you and can't wait for your engagement session. Feeling a bit nervous is completely normal— even I get anxious before having my own photos taken, and it's what I do for a living! I understand how daunting it can feel at first.
I highly recommend engagement sessions for a few reasons. They help you get comfortable in front of the camera, and give you time to ease into posing naturally. On the wedding day, timelines can be tight, with just minutes for portraits, so having an engagement session beforehand helps ensure your wedding day portraits turn out beautifully.
Second, an engagement session allows you to showcase your personalities in a more relaxed setting, which can even include your pets! These photos are perfect for save-the-dates, and I've taken them anywhere from 18 months before the wedding to just the day before.
There’s a lot to consider when planning your session, so I’ve put together a guide to answer all your questions. It covers everything from what to wear, how to incorporate pets, to location ideas, and more!
- sera
Spending hours in front of the camera might not sound like your idea of fun at first. It’s normal to feel a little awkward in the beginning, but by the end, you’ll likely find it’s much easier than expected—and maybe even enjoyable! I love engagement sessions because they give us a chance to hang out and get to know each other better before your wedding day.
The Gentlemen
A NOTE TO
Engagement sessions can be scheduled anytime between the proposal and the day before the wedding. There’s no “right” or “wrong” time to take your photos—what matters most is the look or season you're envisioning, like spring blooms, or simply finding a date that fits your schedules.
Sessions typically last 1.5 to 2 hours, and I aim to start about two hours before sunset to capture that perfect golden hour light. Shooting when the sun is lower in the sky helps avoid harsh shadows and overexposed highlights. The first two hours after sunrise are also ideal for soft, flattering light—early, but it can be worth it!
Because I plan sessions around the best natural light, it’s important to be punctual. If you're late to an evening session, we may run out of daylight before completing the shoot, and for morning sessions, the light becomes more intense as the sun rises, affecting the overall quality of your photos.
Is there a good time to take photos?
TIME & LIGHT
While I shoot most of my engagement sessions between April and late November, sessions can take place any time of the year. Most couples choose a season based on the location where they want to shoot.
Things to be mindful of during each season:
Seasons
Spring
fresh flowers and warm breeezes
Although spring officially starts in late March, I usually wait about six weeks to begin shooting, as the weather in Virginia tends to remain chilly. Flowers generally start blooming in April, making it a better time for outdoor sessions. When scheduling spring dates, I like to plan both a primary session and a backup rain date—because, as they say, April showers bring May flowers!
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Summer
walks on the water hand in hand
In spite of the heat, I'm all for summer sessions! Because of the later sunset, sessions sometimes begin as late as 6pm. If you’re taking your engagement photos during the summer, we recommend bringing extra makeup and a few towels to make sure you stay fresh throughout your session as well as some ice water to stay hydrated.
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Fall
colorful leaves and snuggling close
Fall is one of the most beautiful times of the year, with its stunning foliage and crisp, ideal weather. Because of this, it's also one of the most popular seasons for engagement sessions, and dates tend to fill up quickly. If you're dreaming of capturing the magic of autumn in your photos, I highly recommend booking your session as early as possible to secure your preferred date and ensure we can take full advantage of this vibrant season.
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Winter
snowfall, hot cocoa and cozy coats
If you're planning a winter engagement session, keep in mind that for evening shoots, we may need to start as early as 2:30 PM to capture the sunset. We recommend dressing in layers so you can stay warm between shots, and consider packing some hand warmers for your pockets. Alternatively, we could consider an indoor studio or a unique location to create a moody, warm ambiance for your session.
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For local weddings, save-the-dates should be sent out 6 to 8 months in advance. For destination weddings, aim for 8 to 10 months prior.
If you’d like to use your engagement photos for the save-the-dates, I recommend scheduling your session at least two months before sending them out. This allows enough time for any potential weather delays, editing, designing, and printing, ensuring your images and cards are ready for your guests. I know a lot of my past clients love Minted Weddings for printing. Engagement photos are delivered approximately 4-6 weeks after your session.
Save-the-dates
Locations
charlottesville AND VA ENGAGEMENT LOCATIONS
I 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 in downtown DC, while a local park or flower-filled fields may be more fitting for a couple planning a countryside affair. The best session locations are often meaningful places to the couple, however, I am also happy to make recommendations. From ski slopes to lavender fields to apple picking and college campuses, the options for engagement session locations are endless!
UVA Gardens
Georgetown
Seven Springs
Capitol Hill
Pippin Hill Vineyard
CLASSIC & ELEGANT
Eastport (Annapolis)
St. Michaels
The Narrows (Kent Island)
Naval Academy
Chestertown
COASTAL
UVA Campus
Downtown Richmond
The Mall Charlottesville
Georgetown
Downtown DC
URBAN
Belle Isle Beach
Jamestown Beach
Lake Anna
Cape Charles Beach
BEACH
A Vineyard
Tree & Flower Farms
Ravens Roost Overlook
Waterperry Farm
Chiles Peach Orchard
RUSTIC
Cooking class
Hiking
Sailing / Boating
Wine Tasting
Picnics
ADVENTURE
The above locations are all beautiful but I also love exploring meaningful locations with my couples!
Destination Engagement Sessions
While most of my engagement sessions take place in Charlottesville, Virginia, DC, or Richmond, I’ve also photographed couples in locations ranging from New York City to Charleston, South Carolina and I am always up for a travel adventure.
If you have a place that’s meaningful to you both, let me know! If our schedules align, I’d love to capture your engagement photos outside my usual area.
Travel fees may apply depending on the location and availability.
Our dogs, Penny and Wallace, are an important part of our family, so I love when couples include their pets in their sessions. Keep in mind, we’ll need to choose a pet-friendly location if you plan to bring yours along.
I suggest having your pet join for the first part of the session, then arranging for a friend to take them home afterward. Since we won’t include them in every shot, it’s helpful to have someone available to hold them between photos.
To help things run smoothly, exercise your pet beforehand and bring their favorite toys or treats. If needed, consider grooming them before the session to keep them looking their best.
Pets
Outfits
what to wear
When selecting outfits, I suggest thinking in terms of “complement” rather than “match.” For example, if your partner opts for a pastel color shirt with blue and pink tones, you might choose a soft blue that complements the palette. Another approach is to choose from the same color family, such as pastels or jewel tones, for a harmonious look.
Couples typically choose two outfits for their engagement session: one more formal and one casual. I recommend saving your favorite looks for the latter part of the session when you’re feeling more relaxed and confident. Don’t forget to elevate your attire with luxurious accessories—statement necklaces, elegant shoes, and timeless watches add those refined finishing touches.
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Heels lengthen legs but if your heels aren’t comfortable for walking, bring an extra pair of shoes to slip into in between shots.
We love the way larger patterns 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. Ultimately, be aware of what colors work best for you and your skin tone. Really the skies the limit.
Wardrobe Tips
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
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Your jewelry can infuse a simple dress with vibrant color and pattern, while lace and tulle create stunning visual interest in photographs.
Stunning heels add a playful touch to any ensemble, whether you opt for heels or flats—it’s a simple yet impactful accessory.
Dresses with sleeves are flattering, helping to create a more streamlined silhouette. Depending on your venue, consider a fit-and-flare style or a flowing gown, as both look exquisite in motion. Choose an outfit that makes you feel confident and comfortable, but don’t shy away from embracing elegance!
Accessories
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
find it fast
Rent the Runway
ASOS
J. Crew
Anthropologie
Free People
Bloomingdales
ModCloth
Hazel & Olive
Morning Lavender
Reformation
Favorite Shops
Madewell
Lulu's
H&M
Vici Dolls
Nordstrom
BHLDN
Virginia Dare Dress Co.
Banana Republic
Adrianna Papell
Saks Fifth Avenue
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
find it fast
Engagement sessions offer an ideal opportunity for a hair and makeup trial. Professionally applied makeup not only lasts longer than everyday looks but also withstands environmental factors like humidity and wind.
It’s essential that you look and feel your best for your engagement photos. If you’re planning a hair and makeup trial, this session is a perfect time to see how your look translates on camera.
If you feel better doing it all on your own, then feel free to be creative and channel your inner stylist. Ultimately, I want you to feel empowered and beautiful for your session.
Hair & Makeup
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
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During your session, there will be moments when we’ll want to capture intimate shots, such as you holding hands or a close-up of the engagement ring. Therefore, it's advisable to tidy up your nails before the session. This applies to both gentlemen and ladies alike.
Neutrals are always classic but if you are known for a bold color nail you should feel comfortable owning your look.
Manicure
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
find it fast
When choosing an outfit for your engagement session, men should aim for a polished yet comfortable look. A classic button-up shirt paired with tailored chinos or dark jeans is a great starting point. Consider layering with a blazer for added sophistication, or opt for a cozy sweater in cooler months. Accessories like a stylish watch or a patterned tie can elevate your outfit. Soft, muted colors and subtle patterns photograph well, so aim for shades that complement your partner's attire. Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes—both for style and to ensure you can move freely during the shoot!
Wardrobe
WHERE TO SHOP
Outfits
for the gents
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J. Crew
Rent the Runway
ASOS
Zara
Leather & Cotton
Jack Threads
Beecroft & Bull
Nordstrom
H&M
Urban Outfitters
Alton Lane
Quattro Tizi
Brooks Brothers
Everlane
Madewell
Bloomingdales
Rag & Bone
Polo Ralph Lauren
Sid Mashburn
Saks Fifth Ave.
Johnston & Murphy
Banana Republic
Wardrobe
WHERE TO SHOP
Outfits
for the gents
Inclement Weather
what to do if it rains
It’s normal for us to schedule two engagement session dates: a primary date and a rain date. This approach ensures your photos are captured in a timely manner and allows us to coordinate schedules effectively. By booking two dates, we can better achieve the look you envision for your photos. If travel or other constraints make an outdoor session unfeasible, we can always get creative and move the session indoors as needed.
I will check in during the week of your session to confirm the time, location, and weather conditions. We understand that preparing for an engagement session takes time, and the last thing you want is to dress up and arrive only to find it raining. Please let me know what works best for you, and if the forecast isn’t promising, we typically make a decision at least 12 hours in advance.
When we can, we always try to take a photo of your ring during your engagement session - so it’s a good idea to have it cleaned or clean it yourself before your shoot! 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.
Ring Cleaning
Props
champagne is always a good idea
If you’re planning to use props for your engagement session, I recommend including them only if they’re meaningful to you. Images of drinking coffee at a local coffee shop would be fun if that’s where you met; however, a trying to fly a kite together when it’s not a part of your relationship may not feel authentic.
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 like walking together. 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 I'm actually looking for. I always tell my clients that I am their mirror for the day. I'll make sure you both look good!
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!
"I'm terrible at having my photo taken"?
"What do I do
with my hands"?
POSING
Date Night
If you’re anything like us, you probably don’t get dressed up all that often. Which means that 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!
After your session is complete, I’ll upload all of your images and ship off any film I may have shot to the lab. It normally takes them about 10 business days to send the digital files back to me - and then it takes me about two weeks to edit your images. Unless we have a holiday closure, you can expect to receive your engagement photos between 4 to 6 weeks after your session.
When to Expect Your Images
I 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 I missed, or you need a recommendation feel free to email
sera@serapetras.com