Congratulations! You found the person you’re going to spend the rest of your life with. So what now? Get started with the steps below on my engagement photo checklist! This season of life goes so fast, so my first piece of advice is: Don’t let the wedding stress get in the way! Really enjoy it and soak it up—it’s supposed to be fun! And as you move forward through the exciting whirlwind ahead, don’t forget to capture the moments to remember your love and this chapter of life exactly as it happened.

First things first: As you search for an engagement photographer, see if they offer wedding packages with an engagement session. For couples who book engagement AND wedding photography at the same time, I offer a one-hour complimentary engagement session. (More about that $350 value here!) Plus you kill two birds with one stone, so you’re ahead of the game already!

Pick a reserved date and time 

Be flexible when you’re deciding on a date. Your photographer is likely going to suggest sunrise or sunset because the lighting is the prettiest, but daytime is possible! Our schedule books out months in advance with various commitments and sessions (sunset only comes once a day), so if you’re looking for a weekend day, plan in advance!

Decide on a location you both like 

You don’t need to be an expert in this! You can ask your photographer for a list of recommended places, but if you do have a vision in mind, don’t be afraid to speak up! 

Pick out your outfits beforehand

Pinterest can be your best friend when it comes to outfit inspiration. Make sure you pick according to the theme/location and try to stay away from anything that clashes like too many loud prints. For more advice on this one, check out my 12 tips for picking out engagement photo outfits. If you are someone who wants to bring accessories (hats, different shoes, scarves) pack those items in advance so you’re not scrambling on the big day!

Brides: Take time to have your nails done 

This may seem like a small thing, but with that new gorgeous ring to show off, there will be several photographs with your hands in them. Treat yourself to a manicure day! The best advice I ever received for engagement photos is to always have the couple touching. That means lots of hand holding and arms wrapped around each other, and in turn, lots of visible hands. It’s great to ensure you’ll love the close-up shots as much as the shots from far away. 

Bring comfortable shoes, you won’t regret it! 

In Colorado, the weather can change from summer to spring and then winter in 48 hours. Be sure to bring hiking shoes or closed toed, flat shoes in the event you end up walking to different spots of a park or lookout spot. 

Look at inspiration, but give yourself room to be you! 

I encourage couples to send me their Pinterest boards of favorite Instagram shots, but not every photographer agrees. Some photographers believe it sets the expectation that your photos will look just like the post, plus it doesn’t provide the level of creativity that a photographer is capable of. That’s why I say to think of it as inspiration. We’re not going to take every single photo and recreate what’s been done, but there’s no need to reinvent the wheel, either. Let’s find what you like and then make it yours!

I hope this engagement photo checklist gave you some ideas as you start to plan for your engagement session! Sarah Arnold Photography has more tips and tricks, so feel free to contact us or send an inquiry. We’d be happy to help you throughout the process so you’re excited for your session and happy with the final product!