engagement guide
WELCOME!
Hey there!
I’m SO excited for your engagement session!
Your session is really just about celebrating your love and life together. It’s a chance to capture moments that tell your story, embrace your individuality, showcase creativity, and illustrate the love you share.
My sessions are laid back and personal. I want you to relax, have fun and be yourselves! When you’re having a good time the result is photos of real moments that capture who you are authentically.
Aside from having photos of the two of you, this session is when we really get to know each other, and you can get a feel for what its like to work with me. My goal is to build a lasting relationship with you, so when you need a photographer for life’s big moments, you’ll know who to contact.
WHAT TIME IS BEST FOR OUR SESSION?
Lighting is the number one most important element in selecting a time of day for your session. The best light is right before sunset, so ideally we’ll be shooting in the evening. However, I’m more than happy to work around your schedules to find something that suits the situation the best!
WHAT SHOULD WE WEAR?
There is a section of this guide dedicted for wardrobe tips, but the main ideas are:
- Aim for neutral or solid colors when you can.
- Layers are your friend! They add interest and texture to your photos. It also helps prepare you for whatever weather conditions we’ll have.
- Avoid anything with intense patterns- small stripes especially can get weird in images. Florals are great, but I find it looks better if only one partner is wearing a pattern.
- Most of all, aim for clothing that fits you well and that you are comfortable in!
WHERE WILL WE GO?
The location of your session depends on the kind of vibe you’d like for your photos! Cities and downtown are great for a more colorful, funky look; beaches are great for a traditional romantic image; parks and greenery make for a variety of landscapes to suit almost anyone. I do most of my sessions outdoors, but the main thing is finding a beautiful spot where you feel comfortable to hang out and take some great photos.
WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY PHOTOS?
Editing time will vary depending on the time of year. Generally for peak wedding months my delivery time is 2-3 weeks. For off season months I can usually get them done in 1-2 weeks. I do my best to have your photos to you as soon as possible!
OUTFITS FOR HER
It’s a special occasion, but your outfits should still be a reflection of you.
That said, here are some simple tips to make sure you choose your best look!
1) Wear something that fits you well. Try to avoid clothing that shows your bra straps- you’ll get your photos back faster if I’m not spending time editing them out. Anyting too tight or restricting, itchy or uncomfortable will show in the photos. When you feel good, you look good!
2) Clothing movement is also a huge factor in creating romance and drama in your photos – dresses, flowy shawls etc are fantastic. If your shoes are a little hard to walk in, bring along a pair of flats so you can get around to different locations with ease.
3) Try including some minimalist accessories – a simple necklace, a scarf or jacket for cooler months- and of course your ring.
4) If you and your partner chose to do engagement rings, know as a photographer I’ll be highlighting that. That said, chipped nail polish is very time consuming to edit out, so come prepared. Manicures are a great pre-session treat for yourself.
5) Be you! This is your session. If you’re most comfortable in jeans and a tank- rock it!
OUTFITS FOR HIM
The most important thing for guys is fit and comfort. In terms of what to wear, I always suggest fitted dark jeans or slacks, button down shirts, blazers, vests, or sweaters. However, be you and be comfortable! Here are some other tips:
1) Match your partner’s style. If she is in a casual dress, you don’t want to wear a full suit. However, if she’s in a long skirt and lace top, you don’t want to show up in sneakers and a baseball hat, either.
2) Compliment her with your clothing. You don’t want to compete in the photo- if she’s wearing a bold red, try to go more neutral. If she’s in all white, add some contrast with a blue top and denim.
3) I’ll most likely get some close ups of you holding hands, so try to have trimmed, clean fingernails for the shoot.
4) Avoid baggy jeans, unfitted shirts, running shoes or t-shirts with logos.
5) Cut your hair if you wish, however make sure you do it at LEAST 3-4 days in advance, so the hair has time to blend a bit.
If you have any questions or need some help deciding on options I’m happy to lend a hand!