Preparing Your Fiancé for Your Session
Let’s be real—engagement sessions are super exciting… for one of you. If you’re stressing out because your fiancé isn’t quite as thrilled about the upcoming photo session as you are, you’re not alone. Many grooms-to-be are unfamiliar with what an engagement shoot entails and may feel awkward, unsure, or even resistant about the idea. But don’t worry! With a little prep and understanding, you can help turn this into something you both actually enjoy. Here are a few tried-and-true tips to help get your guy on board and maybe even excited about it:
1. Make It Worth His While (AKA Bribery Is Fair Game)
Sometimes, a little incentive goes a long way. Think about what motivates your fiancé—whether it's promising to finally watch that game with him, a fun date night afterward, or even planning a post-session dinner at his favorite spot. If there’s something he’s been wanting to do or asking you to try, now’s the perfect time to pull out that “yes” card. This isn’t about manipulation—it’s about compromise. You get your dreamy photos, and he gets something that makes the experience feel like a win for him too.
2. Give Him a Heads-Up on What to Expect
Most guys don’t scroll Pinterest or Instagram for hours looking at cute couples’ poses—so walking into a photo session without a clue can be intimidating. Ease his nerves by filling him in on what the day will look like. Let him know it won’t be a stiff, awkward experience. It’s just the two of you being yourselves, with a photographer gently guiding you into natural interactions—holding hands, cuddling, maybe a kiss or two. When he knows what’s coming, he’ll feel more in control and less like he’s being thrown into something uncomfortable.
3. Let Him Know You’ll Be Right There With Him
Reassure him that you’re doing this together. Engagement photos aren’t about posing perfectly—they’re about capturing your connection and chemistry. Tell him there’s no pressure to “perform,” and that you’ll be there the entire time, laughing, loving, and maybe even having a little fun. Remind him that it’s not about being a model—it’s about making memories.
4. Loosen Up (Yes, Even with a Little Liquid Courage)
If your fiancé is the nervous type, it’s totally fine to bring along a drink (or two!) to help him relax. We’re not talking shots before the shoot, but a glass of whiskey or a cold beer before or even during the session can go a long way in taking the edge off. Many couples say this little touch makes the experience feel more casual and fun.
5. Keep Things Light and Loving Before the Shoot
Stress levels can get high before a session—clothes, traffic, running late—it’s easy to let tension creep in. But a fight right before your photos will definitely show up on camera. Try to be extra patient and affectionate the day of your session. A little kindness goes a long way in creating a relaxed, connected vibe in your photos. Kiss him on the cheek, tell him he looks good, remind him that you’re in this together—it’ll help both of you get in the right headspace.
6. Share Why This Matters to You
Sometimes, it just takes one heartfelt conversation. Let him know how much these photos mean to you. Say something like, “I know this might feel silly or even stressful, but I want to remember this season of our lives. One day, I want to look back at these photos with our kids and grandkids. It’s important to me.” Framing it that way helps him understand that this isn’t just a check off the wedding to-do list—it’s something meaningful.
7. Get Him Involved in the Planning
One of the best ways to help him feel more invested is to ask for his input. Maybe there’s a special location that means something to both of you, a hobby you share, or a certain outfit he feels most comfortable in. Letting him be part of the decision-making process can shift his mindset from “this is something I have to do for her” to “this is something we’re doing together.” Plus, it helps make the session feel more personalized and reflective of who you are as a couple.
Final Thoughts
Engagement sessions are about celebrating your love story, and getting your fiancé on board doesn’t have to be a battle. With a little communication, patience, and planning, you can both walk away from the session feeling closer and more connected—and with beautiful photos to treasure for a lifetime.
Remember, this is just the beginning of your journey together—why not start it off with a little fun and a whole lot of love?
