How to Prepare for a Couples Session: Tips for Picture-Perfect Moments
So, you’ve officially booked your couples session!
You may be excited or may be feeling a little bit of dread — because having a photographer in your bubble while you kiss your significant other isn’t your everyday norm.
There are a few things you can do to not only make yourself feel a whole lot more comfortable about your upcoming photo session. Things that will help your photos turn out incredibly well before your photographer even lifts their camera.
Why Your Preparation Matters
A couples photography session is not just about the photos—it's an experience to celebrate your unique bond. From choosing the right outfits to setting the scene for romance, here's your ultimate guide to preparing for a memorable couples session.
By following these tips in this guide, I can guarantee that you will feel so much more confident — you may even have some fun doing it. So, let’s get to it!!
This couple booked me after having a miserable session with another photographer. All she wanted was to feel pretty & loved with a low-key session. So, I went to work.
I played music in the background to get her mind off of feeling uncomfortable in front of the camera.
I treated the session as if it were a date night and I was just there capturing the love & fun.
I talked to her as if I had known her my whole life.
Pick a location honest to you
Your choice of location sets the mood for your photoshoot. Are you adventurers at heart? Opt for a scenic hike or a secluded forest trail. Prefer urban vibes? Think city streets, artsy alleys, or vibrant markets. Beach lovers can embrace the sunset on sandy shores. When selecting a location, think about the atmosphere that speaks to your relationship. Romantic, playful, or serene—let your surroundings reflect your love story.
2. Choose Outfits That You’d Actually Wear
I cannot, CANNOT, stress this one enough. I know you want to feel a little “extra” on the day of your session. And I’m not suggesting to show up in your pajamas or day-old sweats. But if you typically don’t wear heels or a heck ton of makeup…don’t do it for your session. Just as finding a location, you want to feel like yourself. Because, let me tell you, it absolutely shows on your photos when your uncomfortable, or not feeling like yourself.
Opt for colors that harmonize without being too matchy-matchy. Soft pastels, earth tones, or complementary shades can create a cohesive look. Consider your location—brighter colors for urban settings, softer tones for natural landscapes. Above all, choose outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable, allowing your personalities to shine.
3. Embrace Natural Poses and Expressions
Authenticity is key to capturing genuine moments. Rather than stiff poses, focus on natural interactions. Engage in activities you enjoy together—holding hands, stealing a kiss, or sharing a laugh. These candid moments evoke true emotions, resulting in timeless photos. Trust your photographer's guidance, but also allow yourselves to relax and be yourselves. Remember, it's about celebrating your love, not striking perfect poses.
4. Personalize with Meaningful Props or Items
Inject a dose of your personalities into the session with meaningful props or items. Maybe it's a vintage camera for the photography enthusiasts, a picnic setup for the foodies, or a cherished heirloom. These personal touches add depth to your photos, telling a richer story of your relationship. Consider items that hold sentimental value or represent shared interests—it's these details that make your session uniquely yours.
5. Prepare a Checklist and Relax
As your session approaches, create a checklist to ensure everything is in order. Confirm the date, location, and any special requests with your photographer. Lay out your outfits the night before, including any accessories or props. Most importantly, relax and enjoy the experience. Trust in the process and savor each moment together. This session is about celebrating your love and creating cherished memories.
This couple were very open about their insecurities and worries. Just like most women, she hadn’t had flattering photos in the past and was anxious about it happening again.
Because she was open and honest with me, I was able to:
I was able to reassure her before we even booked her session.
I came up with a plan to help them feel absolutely comfortable.
I made sure to keep hyping her up to keep her from slipping into a negative mindset.
Preparing for your couples session is more than just logistics—it's an opportunity to celebrate your love in its purest form. From choosing the perfect outfits to embracing natural moments, every step leads to capturing the essence of your relationship. So, get ready to create unforgettable memories and let your love story unfold through stunning photographs.
Remember, the magic lies in the moments shared between you. Let your personalities shine, and trust your photographer to capture the beauty of your love. Cheers to a picture-perfect session filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories!
Ready to capture your love story?
Contact me today to book your couples photography session and let's create timeless memories together!
Your journey, your story, beautifully captured. 📸✨
Follow along for more behind-the-scenes moments and photography tips!
Stephanne Roach is an adventurous, lifestyle photographer based out of Southern Pines, North Carolina but travels worldwide. She lives for outdoor adventures, intimate moments, and candid images. Her style is timeless, bold, and authentic. She believes in chasing sunsets, being in the moment, and most importantly — capturing genuine moments that evoke feeling over perfectly posed photographs.