Engagement Session

What to expect

Awkwardness: I know that is probably not helping the nerves, however it is usually the case. The great news, the awkwardness fades quickly. Most people have not been in front of a professional camera together and if so it’s typically a “stand and look at me” type photo. I will be there to help you loosen up. Do not over think the process or the “pose” the more you embrace and simply be together- that is what will result in the best photos. more relaxed you are together and the more you are yourselves- the better. I mix a lot of posing and prompts with my session to capture a wide variety of images for you.

Time : Sessions last up to 1 hour

Emotion: over location every time! - Many couples spend too much time concerned about choosing the right location and while it does help set the tone for your engagement session and can add some dynamic interest. The location alone does not make the photo, you and your fiancé do. A couple who is not afraid to embrace, be silly, and have fun will have amazing photos they cherish, no matter if there is a tree or a brick building behind them.  

Location: well now that I said location doesn't matter ;) It does set the tone and incorporating a location that may mean something to you as couple or you feel comfortable in, can help bring out the emotions. I have had couples who love craft beer so we went to a brewery for one location, others loved hiking so we went to a hiking trail, one couple had their photos taken around the restaurant they got engaged. Take some time to think about what you both enjoy or the "type" of photos  that would best reflect you. I am here to help and have several location ideas,please ask.  you do decide on two locations they must be within 15 minutes of each other. I like to give each couple the freedom to create an engagement session they would like.   * Included is travel up to 60 miles from 17366 for your engagement session.* What to do before session:

Lighting: We will typically schedule your session around the best light of the day so please be sure to be on time. I keep my eye on the best lighting for the location we are in. lighting and emotion go hand in hand- they are the most important aspect to capturing  photos you will love. 

Weather: I schedule in a few "rain dates" throughout the year in the event bad weather turns up on your engagement session. I will be keeping an eye on the forecast and I typically make a call the morning of because the weather forecast can change so quickly.  I do not require it to be a bright sunny day, cloudy days are actually wonderful for creating a nice soft even light.

How to plan

Get inspired: Look up inspiration for what you want your engagement photos to look and feel like. Pinterest is the perfect place for this, feel free to add me to any Pinterest board you may create.

Communicate: While you have an idea on my photography style, please do not hesitate to share or tell me a style/vibe you’re wanting. Share the inspiration you found or what is most important for me to capture. If you have any must-have shots you want me to capture, let me know!

Practice your hair & makeup: It’s always a good idea to practice hair and makeup ahead of time to make sure that you like it. You want to make sure you still feel like yourself. I do recommend you add more makeup than you typically wear to help show in the photos. If you need any hair or makeup referrals, I’m happy to send over some recommendations.

What to wear

The most important thing is to wear something you’re comfortable & confident in but something that embodies your personality and is true to your style. You’ll have these photos for years to come and want to look back on them and see yourself.

Color: Neutrals always photograph beautifully, but if you’re someone that loves bold colors, try to stick to earth tones.

Patterns: If you’re a pattern lover, I say bring it! Sequins? YES Keep in mind that it’s aesthetically pleasing to choose patterns that compliment a texture your partner can wear. Patterns are beautiful in photos, but try to avoid mixing multiple heavy patterns. This is probably the hardest part to coordinate so know that I’m just an email away.

How to coordinate: Don’t match too closely unless you’re wanting to make a fashion-forward statement. The days of everyone in khakis and white are over, of course. Go for complimentary colors, patterns or textures instead of the school uniform theory.

Textures and patterns: =A great aesthetic is having one person rocking a texture (think corduroy, faux fur, fringe,leather) and the other person wearing a pattern. This is a beautiful way to add dimension and personality to your outfits in a complimentary way that doesn’t overshadow your personalities and love.

Color block: If you like to keep things more simple, consider your color palette and make sure there is dimension. Avoid being too monotone. Monochromatic is okay, but monotone can look a little lifeless in photos. As an example, if you’re going for blue tones, try putting one person in dark wash jeans with a light top (light grey, white, beige, etc.) and the other person in white bottoms with a light wash denim jacket. This keeps the colors on the top and bottom halves of the photos balanced and keeps the photo from looking like it’s “cut in half.” Essentially, you just don’t want both people wearing the same tone on the same half of the body.

Engagement Pinterest board ideas HERE