It can be so easy to lose yourself in the jungle of wedding planning after getting engaged. There are vendors to research and book, guest lists and seating charts to discuss, a honeymoon to dream about, and seemingly one hundred other details popping up on your to-do list ... all while balancing your everyday commitments and relationships.
An engagement session is the perfect excuse to escape your checklists and spend a carefree evening celebrating what really matters:
your once-in-a-lifetime love.
session details, tips, and answers
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engAgement
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Let's kick things off with a casual 1:1 chat or quick questionnaire. This helps me get to know you—so we can craft a session that’s totally in tune with your vibe and vision.
Then, using the mood board as our guide, I'll offer suggestions on outfits, photo locations, and timing to ensure everything aligns with your vision.
Next, we’ll create a mood board that blends your personal style with meaningful details - bringing your engagement session to life in a way that's as unique as your love story.
After the session, you'll receive a sneak peek of your engagement photos within 48 hours and the completed online gallery within three weeks.
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wHat to eXpect?
the kyra gustwick portrait experience
schedUling
While there's no right or wrong time to schedule your engagement session, I find the sweet spot is 8+ months before your wedding date - especially if you're planning to use your photos as Save the Dates.
Each season has its own charm, and I’ve got great location ideas year-round. The best time of day will depend on the weather and location, but I'm all about catching that golden hour glow - so sunrise or sunset are a good starting point.
I’m here to help with recommendations based on your vision, but if you already have a spot in mind, shoot me an email at hello@kyragustwick.com, and we’ll lock in the details!
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lOcation iDeas
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Don’t shy away from unexpected locations that feel personal—whether they speak to your style or symbolize a meaningful moment in your relationship.
A unique location is the simplest way to make your session feel truly personal
If bold outfits or unique locations aren’t your vibe, consider doing one of your fav date night activities together like baking, walking your dog through your neighborhood, or going to a barcade.
the best places are personal
Consider local breweries, coffee shops, record stores, museums, ice cream parlors, art galleries, retro diners, or even your own home! I also offer studio engagement sessions at my home studio or at local creative spaces, pending your intended look.
unique weatherproof options
Be it the Lincoln Memorial, Dumbo NYC, or an old-world mansion, all of the most iconic locations are on the table. Let's chat about your vision and brainstorm ideas for locations that stand out, or get lost somewhere new and wonderful.
iconic favorites
Consider local parks, national monuments, local landmarks, parking garages with epic views, or even the State Fair! For a more comprehensive list, keep clicking "next" for a link to several blog posts on local options for your area.
outdoors title
best for: fall, winter
best for: all seasons
best for: all seasons
best for: fall, winter
best for: all seasons
best for: all seasons
best for: all seasons
best for: spring, summer
STEER AWAY FROM NEONS
don't forget the weather
avoid logos and large graphics
when in doubt, go neutral
texture is your best friend!
consider complimentary colors
Picking your outfit color palette and planning your outfits for your engagement session are the first steps in creating beautiful photos! While you should consider the weather, it's best to be comfortable and confident in what you wear. I've collected some do's and don'ts for picking out your outfit, along with some outfit inspiration from previous couples.
oUtfit inspiratioN
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In many cases, we choose the session time based on the lighting and privacy of a location. So, being late may result in a darker or more public session. (Plus, I don’t know about you two, but my husband gets grumpy if we’re running late!) Arriving with some spare time to find parking will help you both enjoy this time together and truly make a date of it instead of being stressed about logistics.
last but not least: make sure to arrive with plenty of time
I love to end the session with a little somethin’ somethin’ to celebrate, whether that means you two share your favorite sweet treat, pop a bottle of champagne, or head to your favorite restaurant or bar.
don't be afraid to make it yours!
feeling camera shY?
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Good news - After your engagement session, you’ll be even more at ease on your wedding day knowing exactly what it feels like to work together! Instead of guessing when it comes to lighting and angles, you can fully relax into your big day knowing that I’ve got your back.
With my fun personality and clear posing direction, I’ll have you both feeling confident and relaxed in front of my camera in no time. So, you’ll find yourselves lost in easy conversation and genuine laughter as I ensure you look (and feel!) like your best selves.
Scroll through past sessions with your partner so everyone knows what to expect, especially if one of you is feeling a little anxious. While I’m no stranger to camera shy clients, it may be a big relief to see for yourselves that sessions with me are fun and personable.
We’ll work together to illustrate your partnership with effortless images that showcase why you decided to spend your lives together in the first place: your connection to one another. By blending organic moments and the spark of your personalities, you two will walk away from the session feeling like you’ve had a killer date night far from the pressure of a spotlight.
don't forgEt
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I recommend sticking to two locations or outfits during a 90 minute session to avoid feeling rushed or spending too much time “in transition” between locations or outfits
fabrics LIKE CHIFFONS, VELVETS, SATINS, OR LEATHERS photograph well
you don't have to match!
to relax, have fun, and just be you
to schedule a manicure for detail photos
to clean your engagement ring beforehand!
to take advantage of any hair/makeup trials
aEsthetic tips
Set yourself up for a great experience with clothing you feel confident in. Instead of fussing over the sleeves or worrying about necklines, select outfits that allow you to move and interact naturally.
If you need somewhere to start, nothing beats a beautifully tailored suit or cowl neck silk dress. They’re comfy to wear, easy to style, and can also incorporate a fun pop of color. For more detailed styling guidance, click below to explore more free resources.
If you're struggling with where to begin, complimentary colors, textures, and patterns can take your session to the next level. Generally, I find that it’s best to skip plaids, ginghams, tiny polka dots, or having both partners wear the exact same colors on top and bottom - but there are always stylish exceptions to every rule!
FREE RESOURCE: STYLING GUIDELINES
See my outfit tips in action on a curated Pinterest board full of inspiration for every couple, body type, and style.
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Preserve your favorite photos and the sweet messages from loved ones in a custom-designed guest book that is as stunning as it is practical.
The thick, lay-flat pages are treated to resist fingerprints and stop ink from bleeding through—so your guests can flip through, admire the photos, and jot down their messages without a worry.
If purchased, a draft of your guest book will be available for review within one week of gallery delivery. After your approval, the guest book and pens will be delivered to your door within four weeks.
Knock one more thing off of your to-do list...
cUstom guest book
As my weekends are often entirely booked up with weddings and family time, I only do sessions on weekdays (Monday-Thursday). Weekend dates are available subject to availability and an additional fee.
Do you do engagement sessions on weekends? (Friday-Sunday)
Definitely! If not included on our original proposal, additional locations can be added as a custom quote based on your selected portrait location.
Do you travel for portrait sessions?
Once receiving your digital gallery, you'll be able to *heart* your favorite photos. Then, I'll be able to use those poses and angles as guidelines for your wedding day portraits.
can we recreate any of these photos on our wedding day?
I am more than happy to smooth skin and flyaway hairs or make minor adjustments to the photos. Major photo manipulation can be assessed on a case by case basis.
will/can you photoshop our images?
Pending your location, I typically suggest we schedule our session for the 2 hours following sunrise or before sunset for the most flattering light.
What time of the day should we do our engagement session?
We can start photos off at your place, or invite a friend/family member to join us as a pet-sitter for 10-15 minutes of photos. That's usually all the time we need for great pics!
We have a pet! How can we include them in photos?
If you don't see your question here, please reach out to me via email at hello@kyragustwick.com
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