How to Prepare for Your Couples Session

Choose a location and a mood

Start with the feeling you want — elegant and classic, playful and casual, cinematic and moody, or quiet and intimate — then pick a setting that fits. The couples location guides walk through what each San Francisco spot does best, and we'll choose together based on your personalities and visual goals.

If this session marks an anniversary, an engagement, or another milestone, let me know — it helps me plan the pacing and the kinds of moments we focus on.

Plan outfits and layers

Decide on outfits a few days ahead so it isn't a morning-of scramble, and coordinate without matching. Because San Francisco is often cool and breezy, bring a backup layer even when the forecast looks warm. The what-to-wear guide covers palettes and location-specific ideas.

Bring the essentials

• Water, and a small snack if it's a longer session.
• A backup layer for wind and cooler temperatures.
• Comfortable shoes for walking and natural paths.
• A quick wipe for glasses, watches, or phone screens that show in close-ups.
• A meaningful object only if it genuinely adds to the photos.

Allow time and check the weather

Build in a buffer for parking and walking to the meeting point so you arrive unhurried — rushing sets a frazzled tone. I'll send the exact meeting spot beforehand so there's no guessing on the day.

Check the forecast the day before and dress for temperature and wind. Fog isn't a problem — it often becomes a soft, romantic part of the photos. If conditions look genuinely bad, we'll talk and make a plan together.

Come ready to relax

You don't need to know how to pose or practice in the mirror. The most natural photos come when you stop performing and just interact — talking, walking, laughing, leaning in. Let me lead with simple prompts, and trust that the awkward first few minutes are completely normal and pass quickly.