Documentary Engagement Photography in Washington DC
Your engagement session
should feel like you.
Not like a photoshoot.
Most couples tell me the same thing: "We feel awkward in front of a camera." Good. That means you're normal. My job is not to make you perform. It is to create a space where you forget I am there, and then capture what happens next.
An engagement session with me is a walk, a conversation, and occasionally standing somewhere beautiful while the light does its job. I do not do stiff poses. I use small prompts, movement, and timing so the photos feel lived-in and completely yours.
What an Engagement Session Feels Like
It feels like a walk, a conversation, and a little time together before the wedding noise starts. I ask questions, give prompts, and leave room for the real reactions to happen.
The best photos are not the ones where you look perfect. They are the ones where you look like yourselves.
Where We Shoot
National Mall, Tidal Basin, Meridian Hill Park, Georgetown Waterfront, Dumbarton Oaks, US Capitol grounds, Lincoln Memorial, The Wharf, Shenandoah National Park, or somewhere personal to your story.
Not sure which location fits? I recommend based on your story, not just my portfolio.
What You Get
- 1-2 hours of unhurried coverage.
- Multiple nearby locations when the route makes sense.
- 60-100 edited images in a private online gallery.
- Color and black-and-white edits.
- Download and print rights. The images are yours.
- No watermarks and no upsells.
- Gallery delivered in 2-3 weeks. Rush delivery available for save-the-dates.
Who This Is For
- Couples who want something natural for their wedding website.
- People who are not photo people.
- Anyone who wants to feel comfortable before the wedding day.
- Couples who want to remember this season, not just check a vendor box.
- Long-distance couples with one weekend together before the wedding.
When to Book
Engagement sessions usually book 4-8 weeks out. Spring and fall fill first. Summer evenings are long and golden, while winter sessions have low light and quieter monuments.
If you are getting married in peak season, book the engagement session at least three months before the wedding.
Included in Wedding Collections
Most full-day wedding collections include the engagement session. It is built in because it helps us get comfortable with each other before the wedding day.
Standalone engagement sessions are available if you have not booked wedding coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should we book?
Most sessions book 4-8 weeks out. Spring and fall dates go first.
Where should we shoot?
I recommend locations based on your story, privacy needs, light, and season.
What if the weather is bad?
Clouds, wind, and light rain can be beautiful. If weather is truly miserable, we reschedule.
How many photos will we receive?
Most engagement sessions include 60-100 fully edited images.
How long does editing take?
Typical turnaround is 2-3 weeks. Rush delivery is possible for save-the-dates.
What should we wear?
Wear something you can move in and something that feels like you.
Do you pose us?
I use prompts and gentle direction. The goal is real connection, not stiff posing.
Is this included with weddings?
Yes. Most full-day wedding collections include an engagement session.
Ready to Book Your Session?
Tell me your story.
Tell me a little about you both — where you met, what season you have in mind, and any story that matters. I'll reply with availability and a few location ideas.