PLANNING YOUR ENGAGEMENT SESSION
/ OUTFIT SELECTION
SOLIDS ARE BEST Simple is better. Try to avoid clothes with crazy graphics, logos, or anything that distracts from your face.
AVOID MATCHY-MATCHY Instead of looking like twins, wear complementary colors or shades of the same hue (e.g. light blue and navy).
BE COMFORTABLE If you can’t wear stilettos without falling over, bring flats to substitute. Don’t wear clothes that are too tight, too loose, or fit uncomfortably. It’s easier to be natural if you aren’t constantly pulling at your clothes.
DIVERSIFY Bring two completely different outfits. For example, bring a casual set and then something formal to wear. Feel free to bring as many outfits as you wish, but keep in mind that each change eats into the session time.
CHOOSE A THEME Bring props that involve your hobbies as a couple. Or, just bring your dog :)
BREAK ALL THE RULES In the end, make sure that your shoot authentically reflects who you both are.
/ THE BEST LOCATIONS
GET PERSONAL
YOUR STOMPING GROUNDS
The most unique and personal location that you can find is your own home. Think your porch, backyard, or even your kitchen.
Brainstorm the places that the two of you love to visit on a regular basis. Do you like to hike? Take daily walks in the park? Museums? Coffee shops?
LET’S GO ON AN ADVENTURE Is there a place you’ve always wanted to explore? Let’s do it! Make a weekend getaway out of the experience and go someplace new.
THREE IS KEY, TWO IS BEST Keep the number of locations to three. Otherwise, the majority of the shoot will be spent driving back and forth all over town. Even with two, keep travel time in mind.
BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY
KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN
Do your research beforehand. Some venues require a deposit for use of their property. If the site is off the beaten path, be sure to at least attempt to contact the property owner for permission to shoot on their grounds.
On your daily drive to work/grocery store/gym, look around. You might be surprised to find that some of the sweetest spots are in your neighborhood. Look for color, texture, great light, space, or unusual landscapes,
TRAFFIC
ASK!
If you or your significant other are shy, try to choose a venue that doesn’t have a lot of foot traffic so that you feel comfortable showing a little PDA.
If you have an idea in mind, but can’t find the ideal spot, ask! I’d be more than happy to help you scout a fabulous location.
/ TIME + LIGHT GOLDEN HOUR
TEMPERATURE
The most flattering light is two hours before sunset or within two hours of sunrise. This light is soft and golden, which enhances skin tones.
If you sweat like a pig, try to choose a month that will likely boast cooler weather for your comfort (early spring and fall are best in the South).
MATCH YOUR VENUE
OPPOSITE SEASONS
Choose the season based on the location of your shoot. If your desired site has beautiful trees, then pick a fall date to have colorful leaves, rather than winter when the trees are bare.
Choose to take your engagement pictures in a season different than when you’re hosting your wedding. If your wedding is in the summer, take your engagement photos in the winter or fall to change up the landscape of your background.
SINGING IN THE RAIN Rain on your day?! Don’t panic! If you’re game for crazy creative portraits, let’s jump in puddles! Rain can be incredibly romantic, especially with a bold umbrella. Cloudy days cast even, soft light, which can sometimes be better than sunny ones. Or, we can always take a rain check if you are looking for a sunny shoot.