How to Prepare for Your Engagement Session- Tips from a KC Wedding Photographer


EEEEKKKK! Congratulations! You're engaged!! The question has been popped, the answer was "yes!", and now it's come time to start planning your engagement session. Have no idea where to start? You've come to the right place!


Lets talk locations

One of the most important, if not THE most important decision you'll have to make is WHERE you want to have your session take place. The location you choose should reflect you as a couple, so if you and your partner don't feel like an open field is your vibe, you should probably opt for a downtown shoot or somewhere with a more urban setting. On the flip side, if you and your partner thrive in nature, the country, and wide open spaces, a shoot at Union Station may not be the right fit for you. Listed below are some top tier locations in the KC area.


Urban Locations in Kansas City

  • Union Station
  • Webster Parking Garage (Kauffman Center Background)
  • Nelson Atkins
  • West Bottoms


Nature Centered Locations

  • Shawnee Mission Park
  • Loose Park
  • James A Reed Wildlife Reserve
  • Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area


Outfits

The second most important decision you'll make when it comes to your engagement session is what to wear. This can also be the most difficult part but fret not, here's some tips that hopefully help choosing an outfit a little easier!

  • Complement, don't match!
  • Stick to neutrals or soft colors
  • Dress for season and the setting
  • Be comfortable!


What to Bring and How to prepare

When it comes to getting ready for your engagement session, preparation is key! If you plan on bringing any pets, bring an extra hand to help care for them so that once they are finished with their part in the session you can be fully present for the rest of the season without worry or distraction! Bring any props you may want to include (special jackets, champagne bottles, glasses). If you can, opt for professional make up, a great day to do your wedding day make up trial is the day of your engagement session! Just be sure to bring a touch up kit just in case!


Lastly, have FUN! The more relaxed and present you are in this moment the more it will show in your photos, I promise. Treat your engagement session like a really special date night, this is a huge milestone in your relationship, it should be celebrated! Go to dinner after, plan a special evening, remind yourselves why you chose each other to take on life together!


A couple shares a romantic moment on a brick rooftop with apartment buildings in the background.
Elegant couple poses on urban rooftop with brick wall and apartment buildings in golden sunlight during photo session.
A couple sharing a romantic moment on an urban rooftop with brick walls and city buildings in the background.
A couple in formal attire celebrate by popping champagne on a rooftop balcony during sunset.
A couple poses together on an outdoor concrete ledge during a sunny autumn day with modern architecture in background.
A couple in matching white and blue outfits stand close together on an outdoor terrace during golden hour.
A couple shares a romantic kiss on a rooftop terrace during golden hour with blurred city buildings in the background.
A romantic couple embraces in formal attire against a sunlit backdrop with architectural columns and metal railings.
Bride and groom share a romantic kiss against a sunlit backdrop of stone columns and modern architecture.