What Is a Love Story or Pre-Wedding Session?
An engagement session also known as a Love Story or pre-wedding photo shoot, is a beautiful opportunity to capture your connection before the big day. Whether it takes place in the colorful streets of Old San Juan, a scenic waterfront in Baltimore, or a quiet park in Washington DC, this session highlights your love in a relaxed, personal way.
As a destination wedding and engagement photographer serving Maryland, DC, Puerto Rico, and beyond, I’ve learned that the most meaningful photos come when couples feel at ease and authentic.
Your engagement photos can be used for wedding invitations, save-the-dates, thank-you cards, your wedding website, and even decor for your big day. But more importantly, this session helps you build trust with me as your photographer, so that by the time your wedding arrives, we already have a comfortable connection.
I often tell couples: think of this as your rehearsal. It’s where we discover what works best for you, what makes you laugh, and how to bring out your natural chemistry on camera.
Common Questions I Hear Before Engagement Sessions
“What should we wear for our engagement photos?”
“How do we pose?”
“Should we make a list of ideas?”
And sometimes: “We’re not photogenic.”
Let me reassure you: you don’t need to be models. You just need to be yourselves.
Let’s walk through everything you need to feel confident and enjoy the process.
Let’s Talk About “Posing”
Most people think they need to come with a list of poses—but I’ll take care of that. I focus on body language and connection, guiding you through natural prompts that feel like you.
I’ll gently direct you through movements like hugging, walking, laughing, or simply looking at each other. These real interactions create photos that feel timeless, not stiff. And I promise—by the end of the session, you’ll probably come up with some great ideas of your own.
Before the Session: How to Prepare
Open Communication
If you have any ideas, styles, or photo references in mind, I encourage you to share them in advance. Open communication ensures that your engagement session will reflect your unique story and vision.
Coordinate as a Couple
Shopping for outfits together can be fun and helps create a sense of unity in your photos. Whether you’re planning a sunset engagement session in Puerto Rico or a cozy downtown shoot in Washington DC, make sure your wardrobe feels cohesive and true to your style.
What to Wear for Engagement Photos
Neutral and pastel tones tend to photograph beautifully. Think soft shades like lavender, beige, sky blue, white, and gray. Avoid clothing with large logos or patterns that might distract from your connection.
Comfort is key—wear something that allows you to move freely and feel confident. Choose appropriate shoes for the location, and if we’re exploring areas like El Morro, Mount Vernon, or the National Mall, be ready to walk a bit!
Rest Well the Night Before
Your mood and energy show up in the photos. A good night’s sleep will help you look fresh and feel more present, which makes all the difference during your shoot. Trust me—you’ll thank yourself later.
Day of the Session: Practical Tips
Be Present and Enjoy the Moment
Whether you're in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, or the scenic backdrops of Rock Creek Park in DC, the best photos come from moments that feel genuine. Don’t worry about being perfect—just be together, and I’ll guide you every step of the way.
Bring Snacks and Water
Especially if we’re shooting outdoors or walking a lot, staying hydrated and energized helps keep you comfortable and in the moment.
Be On Time
Time is essential, especially when chasing golden hour light. Plan for traffic, parking, and a few minutes to settle in. Arriving early means we start relaxed—and that always shows in your photos.
Be Weather-Ready
Bring jackets, umbrellas, or anything you might need based on the forecast. Whether it’s sunny in San Juan or breezy near the DC waterfront, being prepared means you’ll feel confident no matter what.
During the Session: What to Expect
Trust the Process
My job is to help you feel at ease and confident. At the beginning of the session, I like to chat with couples to break the ice. This helps create a calm, comfortable space that allows you to be yourselves in front of the camera.
Patience and Empathy
Everyone has a different comfort level with the camera. I never rush you—instead, I give you the space and time to find your rhythm. My goal is to make the session feel like a fun date, not a formal photo shoot.
Open and Honest Communication
Tell me how you're feeling during the shoot. If you have ideas or if something feels off, I’m here to listen and adapt. That said, I’ll also bring my experience to the table to guide you with confidence.
Final Thoughts: This Is Your Moment
Your engagement session is more than a checklist item—it’s a joyful, memorable experience. It’s a chance to celebrate your relationship and create images that will last a lifetime.
Whether you’re planning a destination wedding in Puerto Rico, a romantic session in DC, or an urban engagement shoot in Baltimore, I’m here to help you feel confident, seen, and celebrated throughout the entire process.
If you have questions or would like help choosing the best location for your session, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m excited to tell your story—wherever it begins.
