A Real-World Prep Guide from Eric Goldstein Photography
So your engagement session is coming up—awesome.
Whether you’ve been planning outfits for weeks or just realized you should probably start thinking about it, don’t stress. You don’t need to know how to pose. You don’t need to be models. And you definitely don’t need to fake anything.
Your engagement session is about your real connection—how you move, laugh, flirt, and hang out together. Think of it as a fun date with a camera nearby. I’ll help guide you, make you laugh, and probably dance a little. All you have to do is show up and be yourselves.
Here’s how to prep for a session that feels easy, natural, and seriously fun.
Pick a Location That Feels Right
The best spot isn’t necessarily the most dramatic—it’s the one that feels true to you.
Some couples want a classic beach moment. Others love urban alleys, quiet trails, or the bar where they had their first date. If you already have a spot in mind that means something to you, let’s use it.
If you’re not sure, I’ve got a blog post (link coming soon) with some of my favorite locations around the area. We can go scenic, laid-back, adventurous, or even editorial. It’s totally your call.
Pro Tip: Willing to get into the ocean at the end of your beach session? Let’s do it. We can create some incredible, intimate shots—just bring a towel and a change of clothes.
👗 What to Wear (Without Overthinking It)
The biggest rule?
Wear what feels like you.
Seriously—confidence and comfort go a long way. If you're fidgeting or don’t feel great in your outfit, it'll show. So let’s keep it easy.
A few general guidelines:
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Bring 2–3 outfit options: something casual, something dressier, and maybe one that’s bold or fun
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Neutral tones or soft colors always look good in natural light
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Avoid loud logos, busy prints, or clothes that don’t fit well
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Choose pieces that move well—especially for outdoor shoots
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Try everything on a few days before: walk, sit, hug, test it all out
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Steam or iron ahead of time (wrinkles show up on camera, big time)
Wearing heels? Toss some comfy shoes in your bag—we’ll likely be walking around a bit.
Want something fun and personal?
If this is more of a couple shoot than a formal engagement session, bring the personality!
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Want to wear golf polos and hit the range?
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Rock softball jerseys?
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Dress up as your favorite gaming characters?
Let it roll. These are your photos—if it reflects who you are together, I’m all in.
🎒 What to Bring
Here’s what I recommend packing:
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Water + light, mess-free snacks
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Hairbrush, ties, or product
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Lip balm, powder, or touch-up makeup
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A towel (especially if you plan to get wet)
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Ring cleaner (I’ll be getting close-ups!)
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A small bag that’s easy to carry or place on the ground
- Outfit changes + backup shoes
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Optional props (guitar, champagne, dog, blanket, etc.)
🎥 What to Expect During the Shoot
This isn’t a stiff, overly posed photo session. It’s movement, connection, real interaction. I’ll guide you with loose prompts like:
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“Walk like you’re sneaking out of your own wedding”
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“Pull them in like it’s been a week”
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“Laugh like they just said something actually funny”
The #1 goal:
Have fun. Be yourself. Don’t be robotic.
The more relaxed you are, the better the photos will be.
Laugh, flirt, hold hands, dance, kiss, joke. Let it feel real.
💍 Day-Of Tips
A few things to do before your session:
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Clean your ring + trim/groom your nails (both of you)
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Avoid heavy or salty meals the day before
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Don’t try a new hairstyle or makeup that morning
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Pack the night before so you’re not rushed
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Show up a little early—sunset waits for no one
Thinking about pro hair/makeup? Engagement sessions are a great time to do a trial with your wedding makeup artist.
🥂 Bonus: Make It a Date
You’re already dressed up and in a good mood—make the most of it. Grab coffee or a drink beforehand to relax. After the session, go out to dinner or walk along the beach.
Celebrate your engagement. You deserve to enjoy this part of the journey too.
💌 Need Help?
Stuck on outfits? Feeling nervous? Have a location idea you want to run by me?
Just reach out. I’m here to help you prep, feel confident, and actually enjoy this shoot.
Let’s create something great.
Eric Goldstein Photography
Natural. Relaxed. Real connection, captured beautifully.
