Wedding Guide
Engagement Session Prep Guide
It's time to talk Engagement Session! 💚 I’m already so excited for our time together. It’s going to be pure magic. Here are some tips, truths, and gentle prep to help you feel confident, cozy, and completely yourselves on session day.
Start Here
You do not need to have everything figured out before booking. Start by looking through the location and vibe ideas below, then fill out your questionnaire, then book your session. If you feel stuck, that is completely normal. I’ll help guide the rest.
1. Explore location ideas
Scroll through the vibe sections below and see what feels most like you.
2. Fill out your questionnaire
This helps me guide location, timing, comfort, and overall session flow in a way that fits you.
3. Book your session
Once you have a general direction, choose your date and time and I will help shape the rest.
What makes the best photos happen
The best photos happen when you are comfortable and confident in front of the camera. I do my best to make sure I accommodate for making sure that I can make people comfortable in their own unique way. I do not put blanket standards on my couples, so I always try to make sure to match your energy and unique love story.
Location ideas and travel
I try to make sessions within about a one hour drive of 37924 unless we have discussed a different location together ahead of time. I will always help guide what makes the most sense based on light, comfort, timing, and the overall feel you want.
1. Timing is Everything
Golden hour, that soft, glowy light that happens 1 to 2 hours before sunset, is hands down the best time to shoot. It flatters skin, adds warmth and depth, and makes everything feel a little more magical.
Ideal:
- 7:30 to 9 PM in summer
- 4:30 to 6 PM in spring and fall
- 3:30 to 5 PM in winter
- Overcast skies during any time of day. Think soft, naturally filtered lighting
- Morning golden hour, right after sunrise, for early birds
Not Ideal:
- Harsh midday light, especially 11 AM to 3 PM, because it creates squinty eyes, unflattering facial shadows, and washed out color
- Shooting too late past sunset, unless we are going for moody flash vibes
- High traffic times in public locations, because we will spend more time dodging people than making magic
Quick tip: If the location you love is in deep shade or gets blocked by mountains, hills, or trees, golden hour happens earlier. I will help adjust timing so we do not miss the best light.
2. What to Wear
Wear what makes you feel amazing. Choose muted or earthy tones, neutrals, pastels, or rich jewel tones. Avoid neon, logos, or busy patterns. We want you to stand out, not your clothes.
🖤 Black can be gorgeous and classic, but it tends to show lint, dust, and does not reflect light well. If you wear it, add texture like knits, satin, or lace and consider bringing a lint roller.
🍃 Layers and texture photograph beautifully. Think flowy fabric, cozy jackets, chunky knits, and accessories like scarves or hats. Texture gives dimension, especially in golden light.
Feminine
Flowy skirts or dresses, soft knits, layered textures, ankle boots or barefoot, statement earrings
Masculine
Fitted button-downs, layered neutrals, structured jackets or vests, nice jeans or slacks, boots or clean sneakers
Gender Neutral / Fluid
Jumpsuits, tailored sets, oversized sweaters, rolled sleeves, boots or Converse, stacked jewelry, layered shirts and accessories
Want variety? Bring two outfits. One dressy and one casual is a great combo.
Optional but meaningful: If you want to tie in your wedding vibe, I love when couples include little nods to the big day, like a similar color palette, a necklace you’ll wear at the wedding, or a subtle floral detail that matches your theme.
3. Session Ready = Stress-Free
Please arrive dressed and ready so we can jump right into the fun.
- Moisturize your hands. They will be in lots of photos.
- Remove anything that does not go with your outfit, including smart watches, hair ties on wrists, phones, keys, and anything bulky or modern that might stand out.
- I always bring a bag to safely hold your things during the session, and you will get them all back at the end.
- Bring lip balm, water, snacks, and touch-up items if you’d like.
- If it is hot, wear breathable fabrics, bring water, bring a mini fan, and use setting spray or blotting papers if you are wearing makeup.
4. But We’re Awkward
Spoiler: you are not. You do not need to know how to pose. I will guide you through everything with easy prompts, micro-adjustments, and real-time encouragement. No need to practice or rehearse.
Helpful reminders:
- Loosen up on the drive over. Talk, laugh, play music.
- Do not freeze. Shift your weight, move your hands, breathe.
- Look at each other more than you look at me.
- Straighten your spine and soften your shoulders.
Trust me. I will let you know if anything feels off. Mostly, I am chasing real moments, not perfect shapes.
5. What Do I Do With My Hands
You are not alone. Hands can feel weird, but they are actually incredible storytelling tools.
When holding each other
- One hand on their waist, cheek, or arm
- Interlace fingers naturally
- Let your hands move gently, up their back, resting on their chest, brushing their hair
If standing solo or side-by-side
- Hold your own hands softly or play with your ring
- Slide a thumb in a pocket or loop a finger on a belt
- Lightly play with your sleeve, necklace, or scarf
Golden rule: Soft hands, not claws. Let them rest, not grip.
6. Not Big on PDA
You are still perfect for this. If kissing on camera feels unnatural, do not worry. There are so many ways to show love without locking lips.
- Forehead or temple touches
- Holding hands with a little squeeze or thumb rub
- Resting your head on their shoulder or chest
- Tucking hair behind their ear or brushing their jacket collar
- Leaning into each other in silence
- Making eye contact while holding your breath for a beat
- Sharing a quiet inside joke or one-word memory
Connection does not have to be loud. It just has to be real.
7. Prompts + Prep by Location & Vibe
🌿 Nature-Based (fields, woods, waterfalls)
Vibe: Dreamy, grounded, intimate
Posing Cues: Walking slowly, forehead to forehead, leaning against trees, sitting close in the grass or by water
Outfit Ideas: Flowy dresses, linen or cotton textures, earthy tones, boots or barefoot
Location Ideas: Seven Islands State Birding Park, House Mountain Natural Area, Ijams Nature Center & Meads Quarry, Forks of the River Wildlife Area, Melton Hill Park
Tips: Bring bug spray, a water bottle, and shoes you can walk in. Moisturize hands and legs because skin glows in this light. Do not overthink dirt or wind. It is part of the magic. No booking fees or reservations required.
🏙️ Urban / Cityscape
Vibe: Edgy, editorial, modern or playful
Posing Cues: Leaning on walls, walking across crosswalks, sitting on steps or curbs, close and casual body language
Outfit Ideas: Layers, boots, denim, clean lines, bold accessories
Location Ideas: Old City, Gay Street + Market Square, North Central / Happy Holler, Downtown Maryville, UT Campus + The Strip
Tips: We may need to wait for foot traffic or light, so be patient. Bring water if we will be walking. We will use natural corners to get privacy even in public places. No booking reservations or fees needed.
🍂 Vintage / Retro Inspired
Vibe: Nostalgic, whimsical, creative
Posing Cues: Piggyback rides, playing with props, standing side-by-side, leaning into silliness
Outfit Ideas: Corduroy, collared shirts, layers, boots, muted patterns or pastels
Location Ideas: Historic Downtown Clinton, Riverview Family Farm, North Knoxville neighborhoods, antiques district near Broadway
Tips: Bring props if you want a nod to a time or theme. Play with color and texture, lean into the vibe. Be silly if you feel like it. We can balance whimsy with softness. Riverview may require permission or fees to book.
🌙 Editorial & Moody
Vibe: Cinematic, quiet, intentional
Posing Cues: Stillness, angles, leaning with purpose, eye contact, hands in pockets or resting gently
Outfit Ideas: Black or dark tones, sleek silhouettes, velvet, satin, leather
Location Ideas: Jackson Terminal exterior, The Emporium Center stairs + windows, KMA exterior, downtown rooftops with access
Tips: Keep movements slow and intentional. No need to smile, just be. Wind, tension, stillness, all allowed. KMA and rooftops may require permission or timing coordination.
🌾 Soft & Romantic
Vibe: Gentle, timeless, cozy
Posing Cues: Hand-holding, slow sways, forehead touches, head-on-chest moments
Outfit Ideas: Soft neutrals, long sleeves, flowy skirts, button-ups, minimal jewelry
Location Ideas: Lakeshore Park, UT Botanical Gardens, Quarry Trails, Hunter Valley Farm, Crescent Bend House & Gardens
Tips: Bring a wrap or jacket for cozy moments. Stay close, breathe together, and do not rush. Plan for post-session dinner, this vibe often stirs the feels. Hunter Valley and Crescent Bend may require appointment or fee.
✨ Playful & Candid
Vibe: Joyful, fun, energetic
Posing Cues: Jumping, running, spinning, tickling, mock chases, playful banter
Outfit Ideas: Jeans, sneakers, loose layers, rolled sleeves, pops of color
Locations: Victor Ashe Park, Ijams Trails + Boardwalks, Old City murals + side streets, your own backyard or favorite spot
Tips: Expect to look a little dorky, that is the point. We will use motion to ease nerves and create connection. Let go of “nice photo” pressure and go for joy. All locations are free + public access.
💫 Elegant & Classic
Vibe: Polished, refined, timeless
Posing Cues: Structured hands, tall posture, soft eye contact, elegant stillness
Outfit Ideas: Long dresses, sleek suits, pearls, clean lines
Locations: Crescent Bend House & Gardens, Historic Westwood, Bleak House by appointment, KMA Lawn + Steps
Tips: Move slowly, let your posture guide you. Do not over-accessorize, simplicity sings. Trust that small gestures carry elegance. Most locations may require appointment or fee.
🌲 Adventurous & Outdoorsy
Vibe: Wild, real, natural
Posing Cues: Hiking, climbing, blanket-wrapping, barefoot exploring, wading in water
Outfit Ideas: Layers, jackets, lived-in denim, boots, clothes you can sit or move in
Locations: House Mountain Natural Area, Look Rock, Norris Dam State Park, Haw Ridge Park, Melton Hill Park
Tips: Pack a blanket, bug spray, and water. Be okay with messy, wind, dirt, and sweat are part of this vibe. You do not need to smile constantly, just be present with your person. No permits or reservations needed.
🍸 Trendy + Sultry (Modern, Sexy, Date-Night Vibes)
Vibe: Confident, chic, intimate
Posing Cues: Leaning into each other, hand on collarbone or jawline, table touches
Outfit Ideas: Silk, leather, dark denim, blazers, heels, bold lipstick
Location Ideas: Brother Wolf / Osteria Stella, Peter Kern Library, The Oliver Royale lobby + exterior, Radius Rooftop Lounge
Tips: Plan for golden hour into blue hour. Flash may be used. A drink before is fine, do not overdo it. This is more “energy” than “pose.” I will guide the mood. Some spots may require timing coordination or bar access.
🕹️ “Come On a Date With Us” (Candid Night Out)
Vibe: Playful, real, immersive, like I’m tagging along on your dream date
Posing Cues: You two just do your thing, and I guide softly from the sidelines
Outfit Ideas: Whatever you would wear for a casual but cute night out, layered textures, bold accessories, or jeans and jackets with personality
Locations: Token Game Tavern, Phoenix Pharmacy & Soda Fountain, Cruze Farm, Alchemy, The Vault, Maple Hall Bowling Lounge, Old City streets at dusk, your favorite dive bar or dessert spot
Tips: Bring cash or cards if we are entering arcades, grabbing snacks, or getting drinks. Wear what you would actually wear on a Friday night. Let go of the idea of “posing.” Best shot in the late afternoon into evening. You cover your own food, drinks, and tickets.
🪻 Safe Space Session (Queer + Neurodivergent-Affirming)
Vibe: Grounded, flexible, sensory-aware, connection-focused
Posing Cues: Only what feels good, gentle prompts, never pressure
Outfit Ideas: Whatever feels like you, no rules
Locations: Ijams Nature Center trails or boardwalks, Melton Hill Park, UT Gardens, Old City early morning, your backyard, porch, or personal space, queer-friendly businesses with permission
Tips: Let me know ahead of time what feels hard, overstimulating, or just not fun. Bring headphones, stim tools, fidgets, a weighted scarf if you want. You can ask for breaks, say nope to any prompt, or pause whenever. Eye contact is not required. Smiling is not required. Holding hands is not required. If you are a trans or nonbinary couple and want help navigating wardrobe or posing, I’m here for that too.
8. Make It a Date
You are already dressed up and full of good energy, so plan dinner after. Grab drinks. Take the long way home. Let this session be part of your love story, not just a checkbox on your wedding to-do list.
You do not have to be perfect. You just have to show up as yourselves. I will handle the rest.