Iowa & Destination Wedding Photographer | Best of Engagements 2025

Well, the 2025 season is officially wrapped up.  I shot 39 weddings, 41 engagements and over 300 sessions (maternity, family, seniors).   Another amazing year!  Before I post my fav engagements for the year, take a moment and go check out my WEDDING FAVS here! Here you can read what’s in store for 2026.

I always love to post some helpful tips when I post my engagement favs.  I know it’s likely your first time being engaged and it can be overwhelming trying to figure it all out.  So here are some tips I’ve accumulated over my 18 years in the business.

Here are some things to consider when you are first engaged:

🤍What now?! Well, first pick a date!  Personally, I book out super fast as do many other vendors so it is helpful if you have favorite vendor to ask some of their open dates so that you have a better chance to snag them!

🤍Usually most people book their venue and photographer first.  This is not a rule, of course, but those things tend to be gone fast!  (FYI: I’m always happy to give out helpful venue suggestions, as well as other vendors!)

🤍Once you have some of those big things nailed down is when we can talk about your engagement session.  They are never required, but for me personally, I give them out for free in my wedding packages because I believe it’s a great time to get to know each other before your wedding! It also gets you guys comfortable with my shooting style.  Especially for men.  Let’s be honest, most do not love having photos taken.  But, they find that once they do the engagement that it is not so bad!  Most even have fun!

🤍I send my couples out a comprehensive photo guide to all things wedding and engagement, as well as a detailed questionnaire to help plan your wedding timeline!  This is sent as soon as the booking is complete!

🤍I have no preference as long as it’s before your big day, but I do book fast so make sure to try and schedule a few months out!

🤍Make your session about YOU! Bring whatever you’d like as props. (Champagne, dogs, pizza, beers, flowers) whatever fits your vibe as a couple! Or just bring yourselves!

🤍Lastly, please know that there are never poses you HAVE to do.  Please let me know what vibe you’re looking for!  Some love playful and silly, others romantic and even a little steamy sometimes.  Most mix it up with a lot of both, but there are absolutely no rules! Just tell me what you’re most comfortable with!

🤍My 2026 season is mostly booked. Message me to snag what’s left before they’re gone!