You may be feeling a little nervous about your upcoming engagement session. Never fear! Here are 3 tips to insure you and your fiancé are ready to enjoy your time in front of the camera as your wedding photographer creates portraits of this exciting and anticipation-filled moment in your relationship.

Tip #1 - Plan for Awesomeness

Just like a good road trip, planning can make all the difference between a well-executed engagement session and a photo session you just show up to and smile on command. Here are two questions to think about as you start planning:

What do I want to do with my engagement photos?                                                                                 

A few ideas from me: Save the Date cards, invitations, a few large prints to display at the reception, a photo book for your guests to flip through at the sign in table, images for your wedding website, and of course a new profile picture for your Facebook.

When should I schedule my engagement session?

Depending on how you answered the above question will determine how early you need to schedule your engagement session in your wedding timeline. For example, if you would love to send a Save the Date card designed with a engagement photograph or two, you will need to make sure your session is scheduled on the calendar around 6-7 months before your wedding day.

Tip #2 - Pin it Like it's Hot

I know you are on Pinterest. In fact, you probably have been pinning wedding related goodness since you first opened your account. Create an engagement photos board to save your ideas for outfits, poses, and props all in one place. Add your photographer to your board so they can comment on the ideas you are sharing and collaborate with you. You may be dreaming about elegantly styled and romantic engagement photos. Or perhaps you are leaning towards a more casual and spunky feel for your photos. By sharing your inspiration board with your photographer they will be able to get an instant understanding of the vibe and style you are hoping to achieve. BONUS TIP: The Polyvore app is a perfect tool for outfit inspiration. You can browse other users' creations and put together your own stylish creations! You can follow me on Pinterest @taylordphotonm and on Polyvore @taylordphoto.

Tip #3 - Get your Pretty On

Do not forget to set up an appointment with your go to hair and make up artist prior to your session. Spending a little extra effort on your look will up your confidence in front of the camera. The engagement session is the perfect opportunity to give your makeup look a test run before your wedding day. If you have never had your makeup professionally done I can recommend some great professionals. BONUS TIP: Also consider treating yourself to a manicure. I always make sure to photograph your engagement ring sitting pretty on your left hand.

The last (and the most important) thing you need to rock your engagement session is a fun and relaxed attitude. Think of your engagement session as a fun date night with your favorite person and you are bound to enjoy every second of it!