IT's not your job to be the professional - so stop approaching your engagement shoots like a task
Picture this: you just got engaged. You’re excited, dreaming about your wedding, starting to plan… and then it hits you—you should probably book engagement photos (and, oh yeah, a wedding photographer too). Suddenly it gets added to that growing to-do list… the one full of things you’re already dreading.
And this one? It’s not even behind the scenes. Your faces are going to be everywhere—save-the-dates, your wedding website, framed in your home.
Let me be the first to tell you… it does NOT have to be that serious.
You’re stepping into one of the most exciting seasons of your life. You deserve to slow down and actually enjoy it. Keep your engagement session on your list—but take it off the list of things you have to do.
Instead, think of it as a date. A chance to be together, laugh a lot, and celebrate what this season means for you.
Let me share a few ways to make your session feel less like a task—and more like something you’ll actually look forward to
#1 - Help pick out each others outfits
Nothing is sweeter than letting your partner help pick your outfit—and vice versa. Choosing your outfits together can make preparing for your engagement session feel a lot more fun and a lot less stressful.
The most important thing is that you feel comfortable in what you wear because when you feel comfortable, you look comfortable. Confidence always comes through in your engagement photos.
Try picking out a few outfit options and making a night of it. Try everything on, ask for each other’s opinions, and turn it into your own little fashion show before your session.
There’s something special about wearing an outfit your partner loves. It adds a little extra confidence, takes some of the pressure off, and makes the whole experience feel more like something you’re doing together.
That kind of confidence—and connection—shows up in every photo.
#2 - Go to dinner before (or after)
So you just picked out your outfits, maybe spent a couple of hours getting ready… and now you’re supposed to just stand in front of a camera for your engagement photos?
Let’s change that.
Instead of treating it like a photoshoot, treat your engagement session like a real date. You’ve already put in the time to get ready—you both deserve to enjoy it. Plan to grab food at your favorite spot beforehand to shake off any nerves, or head somewhere after your session to keep the night going.
If it fits your vibe, grab a drink, relax a little, and focus on simply being together. The more you lean into the experience and less into “posing,” the more natural your engagment photos will feel.
When you shift your focus from “taking photos” to spending intentional time together, everything becomes easier—and it shows in every image.
#3 - Do something you enjoy doing together
Just as important as how you look is how you feel in what you’re wearing. You don’t want your engagement photos to feel like two people playing dress-up or doing something that doesn’t feel natural.
Think about what your relationship actually looks like day-to-day. Are you a coffee date couple? Do you love hiking together? Into sports? Always spending time at your favorite park?
Lean into that.
Choosing a meaningful engagement session location that reflects your personality as a couple will make your photos feel more authentic and effortless. Whether it’s a cozy café, a scenic hiking trail, or a place you visit all the time, the right setting helps tell your story in a genuine way.
If you’re planning an engagement session in North Idaho or Eastern Washington, there are so many beautiful and versatile locations to choose from—making it easy to find a spot that truly feels like you.
And if you have more than one idea, even better. Having a few location options gives you flexibility and helps ensure your session feels personalized from start to finish.
#4 - Pretend like it's your first date again
Do you remember your first date? Or the moment you realized you wanted to spend the rest of your life with your partner?
Lean into that feeling during your engagement session. Pretend you’re living it all over again—the nerves, the excitement, the way you couldn’t stop smiling.
Those are the moments that create the most genuine, meaningful engagement photos. When you focus on each other instead of the camera, your connection naturally shines through.
That’s the energy that makes the magic happen—real, emotional, and completely authentic.
Love looks so good on you
#5 - Time it around your favorite part of the day
The photographer in me will always suggest getting photos done around sunrise or sunset. The lighting is best during these times—it’s soft, flattering, and creates that warm, natural glow that translates beautifully in photos. Midday shooting can be more difficult, and while some photographers will say a good photographer can work in any lighting, the truth is that harsh overhead light can be unflattering and often creates strong shadows that are hard to avoid.
All that being said, you should still choose a time that feels like you. If you’re a morning couple, consider a sunrise session. These can be so dreamy—you get to experience your location as it’s just waking up, you’ll likely have more privacy, and there’s always the chance of catching a beautiful sunrise.
If you’re more of an afternoon or evening couple, a sunset session might be the perfect fit. While your location may be a bit busier, this is when you’ll feel the most energized and relaxed. You can plan a fun activity before or after your engagement session, making the whole experience feel natural and memorable.
If you’re planning a midday photoshoot, there are still great ways to make it work. Choosing a location that reflects your personality is key—think historic buildings, gardens, shaded trails, or even downtown areas with interesting architecture. You can also pay attention to the weather. While a bright, clear sky might seem ideal, it actually creates the harshest light. An overcast day is often much better for photos, as the clouds act like a natural diffuser, softening the light and creating a more even, flattering look.
I’ll leave you with one last tip:
Choosing the right engagement or couples photographer can truly make or break your experience. When you’re searching for a photographer, look for someone who understands your vision, takes the time to get to know you and your partner, and aligns with your values.
There are so many talented engagement photographers out there, and the decision can feel overwhelming—but you deserve someone who will deliver a gallery that brings you right back to those moments every time you look at it. Your photos should feel genuine, emotional, and completely you.
Don’t be afraid to ask around, read reviews, and have conversations before booking. Many couples find it helpful to ask about a photographer’s approach to engagement sessions, how they guide posing, and what the overall experience is like from start to finish.
If you’re planning an engagement session in North Idaho, Eastern Washington or somewhere very special to you, finding a photographer who knows the area and can recommend meaningful locations is a huge bonus. From scenic lake views to mountain trails, the right setting paired with the right photographer makes all the difference.
At the end of the day, finding a photographer you genuinely connect with will not only make your session more enjoyable, but it will also show in your photos. The best engagement photo galleries are a reflection of how well your photographer truly understood you.
If you’re currently looking for an engagement photographer in North Idaho, I’d love to connect with you. You can learn more about my approach and view full galleries on my website, or reach out directly to start planning your session.
