I’m so thrilled to be creating portraits for you. Whether this session is meant to celebrate your family, document a milestone, or simply capture the beauty of this season in your life, I want you to know that you’re in wonderful hands.

It’s completely normal to feel a little nervous before a session—I still get that way myself when I’m in front of the camera. My role is to make the process relaxed, enjoyable, and effortless, while ensuring we capture images that feel natural, refined, and deeply personal.

This guide is here to help you feel fully prepared. Inside, you’ll find inspiration and practical tips on everything from choosing the right time of day to selecting outfits and locations that reflect your vision. My goal is for you to feel confident and at ease, so when the day arrives, you can focus fully on being present and enjoying the experience.

- jenna

WELCOME

Your story begins here

TIMING

Sessions typically last 30–60 minutes or 90–120 minutes, depending on the session experience you’ve chosen. I prefer to begin portraits in the golden hours of the day—about 1.5 to 2 hours before sunset—when the light is soft, warm, and most flattering.

Because natural light is everything, it’s important to arrive on time so we can make the most of it. I’ll always provide clear timing guidance beforehand so you can plan for traffic, parking, or a little extra wiggle room for kids.

best times to shoot

TIMING

best times to shoot

summer

warm sun, late sunsets

SEASONS

consider the mood & setting

Unlike most places, San Diego gives us the gift of beautiful weather year-round, so there isn’t a “wrong” time for portraits. Instead, seasons here are more about the mood and light.

Long golden evenings with sessions starting later (sometimes after 6:30pm). Inland can be warm, while coastal spots may have cooler breezes.

FALL

less tourists and warm light

SEASONS

things to consider

I shoot engagement sessions year-round, as we have the most perfect weather here in Southern California each and every month! Most of my couples choose a season based on the vibe or location they want for the shoot. 


A favorite for families. Warm, golden tones and fewer crowds at popular locations.

WINTER

cozy sweaters and cuddling

SEASONS

things to consider

I shoot engagement sessions year-round, as we have the most perfect weather here in Southern California each and every month! Most of my couples choose a season based on the vibe or location they want for the shoot. 


Shorter days, earlier sunsets, and softer light. Layers and cozy textures photograph beautifully.

SPRING

FRESH FLOWERS AND SUNNY DAYS 

SEASONS

things to consider

I shoot engagement sessions year-round, as we have the most perfect weather here in Southern California each and every month! Most of my couples choose a season based on the vibe or location they want for the shoot. 


Blooming landscapes and crisp air; be mindful of late spring’s May Gray/June Gloom near the coast.

arrow

next season

Location sets the tone of your session. Whether you love the serenity of the beach, the organic beauty of open fields, or the intimacy of your own home, I’ll help recommend spaces that reflect your vision. Once I know the overall mood you’d like, I’ll suggest a few curated options that photograph beautifully and feel authentic to you.

The above locations are all beautiful but I also love exploring meaningful locations with my clients!

Sunset Cliffs
Torrey Pines State Park
Torrey Pines Gliderport
Point Loma Lighthouse
Oceanside Pier
Mission Beach Boardwalk
Ho Chi Minh Trail

coastal

Torrey Pines Gliderport
Lake Hodges
Balboa Park
Torrey Pines State Park
San Diego Botanic Garden

GREENERY

Double Peak Park
Lake Hodges
Torrey Pines Gliderport
Iron Mountain Trail
Ho Chi Minh Trail
San Dieguito River Park
Torrey Pines
Ramona Grasslands

mountain Views

Coronado Beach
Scripps Pier
Swamis Beach
Terramar Beach
Windansea Beach
Black Beach
Moonlight Beach
Torrey Pines
Montage Laguna Beach
San Onofre Beach

BEACH

Balboa Park

Architecture

locations

san diego portrait LOCATIONS

Joshua Tree
Palm Springs
Mount Laguna
Anza Borrego
Lake Cuyamaca

destination

creative direction

i'm here to help

You don’t need to worry about what to do in front of the camera—that’s my job. I’ll gently guide you throughout the session, offering posing and direction that feel natural, flattering, and true to you.

Often, the most beautiful images come from the little unscripted moments—laughter, movement, a glance, the way your child tucks into you. My role is to create space for those interactions while styling and directing when needed, so you can feel both relaxed and elevated.

friends

furry

Our pets are family, and I absolutely love when clients choose to include them in their session. If you’re planning to bring your pup (or any pet!), we’ll want to choose a pet-friendly location.

To keep things stress-free, I recommend having your pet join us for the first part of the session and then arranging for a friend to take them home afterward. Since they won’t be in every photo, it’s also helpful to have someone there to hold onto them between shots.

LITTLE ONES

ALL ABOUT THE

Little ones bring so much energy and personality to a session. The best images often come when they’re free to be themselves—not forced into perfect smiles. Let them play, explore, and interact naturally, and I’ll gently guide when needed. I promise I’ll capture those genuine smiles along the way—trust the process, and their true personalities will shine through.

style guide

OUTFIT SELECTION

TIPS FOR GREAT PHOTOS

When picking outfits, look for clothes that compliment each other versus match. I tend to find that neutrals and/or softer toned colors photograph the best, as they're the most flattering on your skin and to our surrounding environment. Neutrals don't have to be boring! Look for clothes with pattern and texture. Layers are great, especially for cooler nights or fall sessions.

My best advice is to choose outfits that make you feel confident and at ease, while reflecting your personal style.

+  Neutrals and earth tones photograph beautifully and pair seamlessly with natural backdrops.
+  Layers, textures, and subtle patterns add depth and elegance.
+  Avoid overly bold logos or clashing prints.
+  Coordinate as a group rather than match exactly—complimentary tones feel timeless.

Still feeling lost? I'm only a text or email away! You can also check out my client style guide for some visual inspo!


FOR THE LADIES

FOR THE fellas

on to the next

find it fast

ACCESSORIES

WHERE TO SHOP

HAIR & MAKEUP

MANICURE

Outfits

for the ladies

Dresses are my favorite, due to the movement they make. Not only is it ultra feminine, it's also flattering on most all body types! Color wise, I find that earth-tone neutrals are the most flattering on and also photograph the best for my style. To really elevate your look, add in texture, layers, small patterns, and accessories. 

The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and beautiful! So if what you feel good in goes against this advice, then do it.

wardrobe tips

find it fast

ACCESSORIES

WHERE TO SHOP

HAIR & MAKEUP

MANICURE

Outfits

for the ladies

When choosing your outfit(s), don't just stop at the clothing. Remember to pay attention to the accessories you wear - from a pretty necklace or earrings down to the shoes you wear. Accessories are a great way to add color or pattern to a simple dress.

Heels tend to lengthen our legs, which naturally has a slimming effect. We will walk a lot at our session, so be sure that whatever you select is comfortable. And if it's not, then bring an extra pair of comfy shoes to change into.

accessories

find it fast

ACCESSORIES

WHERE TO SHOP

HAIR & MAKEUP

MANICURE

Outfits

for the ladies

Madewell
Everlane
Zara
Anthropologie
J. Crew
Free People
Nordstrom
Rent the Runway
ASOS
Elizabeth Dye
BHLDN


Net-a-Porter
Francesca’s
ModCloth
Lulus
GAP
Morning Lavender
Lulu's 
H&M 
Vici Dolls
Revolve
Abercrombie & Fitch

favorite shops

find it fast

ACCESSORIES

WHERE TO SHOP

HAIR & MAKEUP

MANICURE

Outfits

for the ladies

While not required, professional hair and makeup can elevate your portraits and help you feel even more confident. A soft blowout, polished skin, and defined eyes photograph beautifully. Even subtle professional styling makes a noticeable difference in your images.

hair & makeup

WHERE TO SHOP

Outfits

find it fast

for the Fellas

Your session is the perfect chance to look sharp and feel confident. Think clean, tailored pieces—whether that’s fitted trousers with a jacket, or dark jeans with a great sweater. Layers always photograph well and add depth to your look.

When it comes to color, neutral tones and complementary shades work best, with subtle textures giving extra polish. Don’t forget the details—a good pair of shoes, a classic watch, or even a simple belt can tie everything together and elevate your style in photos.

wardrobe tips

find it fast

Outfits

WHERE TO SHOP

FOR THE FELLAS

Rent the Runway
ASOS
Suit Supply
J. Crew
Zara
Leather & Cotton

Jack Threads 

Frank & Oak 

Nordstrom 

Bonobos
Abercrombie & Fitch
H&M
Urban Outfitters
Banana Republic

favorite shops

Though San Diego rarely brings surprises, I’ll keep an eye on the forecast in the days leading up to your session. If inclement weather does occur, we’ll connect the morning of to make a decision. Flexibility is key, and I’ll work with you to ensure we reschedule if needed.

INCLEMENT WEATHER

WHAT TO DO IF IT RAINS

THANK YOU!

I hope this guide helps you feel fully prepared and excited for your upcoming portraits. If you have questions, need recommendations, or simply want reassurance before the day arrives, I’m always just an email away.

My goal is to create an experience that feels effortless and leaves you with images that are not only beautiful, but deeply meaningful—photographs you’ll cherish for years to come.

- jenna

© jenna marie photography 2025