What to Expect at Your Engagement Photoshoot in Orange County/Los Angeles.

For this engagement session (the one I’ll be sharing photos from), it was actually the first photoshoot this couple had ever done. That got me thinking - many couples step into their engagement session not knowing what to expect, sometimes even feeling nervous.

As a local Orange County engagement photographer I want to share what actually happens before, during, and after your shoot. My goal is to make sure you walk into your photoshoot feeling confident, relaxed, and excited to create beautiful memories.

Beautiful and relaxed...

Type of pictures you are getting closer to the end of a photoshoot. You will be confident and feel like a model. :)

Choosing the Right Outfits

Here are a few guidelines: choose colors that complement each other.

Solid, neutral tones work best, soft blues, creams, or muted pastels photograph beautifully combined with SoCal beaches and parks.

In all costs avoid loud logos. lol. :) Also busy patterns can distract.

You can bring one dressy and one casual look for variety.

I always encourage my couples to bring props like flowers, blanket, vintage camera etc. Everything what will tell your story.

its all about details

I’ve realized that engagement sessions work best when they last at least an hour and a half - up to two hours. At first, that might sound long, but it allows us to slow down, not feel rushed, and capture a variety of photos that almost look like they were taken on different days.

My job is to capture moments what is not just look good but make you feel something...

The first 5–15 minutes are usually spent walking to the location, chatting, and starting with a few simple, relaxed shots. This time is less about “perfect photos” and more about getting comfortable together.

My job is to make you feel comfortable in front of the camera so you don’t even have to think about posing. We’ll have casual conversations, laugh, and enjoy the moment while I capture those little in-between looks and gestures.

Even I can feel awkward in front of the camera, so I completely understand how you might feel. That’s why I guide you with simple, natural prompt so it never feels forced.

Instead of stiff, traditional poses, I focus on movement and interaction. I say things like:

“Walk away, do a spin, kiss at the end and walk back to me holding hands and talk about traffic jam on your way here”

“Whisper something funny in their ear”.

These prompts create authentic, candid photos that show who you really are. By the 40-minute mark, couples usually realize there’s nothing scary about being photographed - and that’s when the genuine smiles and laughter come out.

And of course, the best part often comes with blue hour. As the sun goes down, the golden light turns soft and romantic, and when the city or coastline lights begin to glow. Photos are cinematic and timeless.

usually other people finish their photoshoot after sunset, but for me its only the beginning...

This is a good example. Low light, ISO 25600 and a beautiful shot of Megan and David

Also you just cant beat this cinematic street lights blending with Long Beach city skyline

It’s normal to feel nervous before your engagement shoot. But here’s the truth: within 15–20 minutes, the nerves disappear. When you focus on each other instead of the camera, the whole experience starts to feel more like a fun date night than a photo session.

Once the session wraps up, you’ll be excited to see your photos - and I’ll be just as excited to share them. Here’s what happens next:

I typically deliver sneak peeks so you don’t have to wait too long. You’ll receive a beautifully edited collection within 7 days or so.

You can use your photos for “save the date” cards or video, wedding website, prints for your home or wedding venue. Or simply sharing on social media.

I always encourage couples to print their photos — they look even more beautiful framed on your wall than on a phone screen. And I can absolutely help you with that. I will make a separate blog post about prints a little later.

An engagement photoshoot isn’t just about beautiful photos - it’s about the memories you create together. With a little preparation, a relaxed atmosphere, and guidance from your photographer, you’ll find that it’s much easier (and way more fun) than you ever expected (at least with me 😇).

If you’re planning your engagement session in Orange County or Los Angeles and want a photographer who will make the experience stress-free, fun, and meaningful - I’d love to capture your love story.

👉 Let’s connect and plan your engagement session today!

one of my favorite pictures from this shoot