Why you need an engagement session before your wedding
Most of my wedding photography packages include an engagement session. It’s an important opportunity for us to get to know each other before the big day. You get a glimpse into how I work and I get to witness how you interact with each other. My goal is for the session to be fun and relaxed, like friends hanging out. That way when I show up for the big day it’ll be like we’ve known each other forever and you’ll trust me to authentically document your wedding.
My documentary style photography means natural and authentic images. When preparing for your engagement session, think about what makes you you as a couple. Envision exactly how happy you are right now and what that will look like when hanging on your walls. That’s what I’m going to capture – real interactions, not uncomfortable poses.
Getting to know you
While at this point in the process we’ll have met over zoom or for coffee, the engagement session is time to really dive in to getting to know you as a couple. I want to hear all the details of how you met. I want to hear funny stories from dating. I want to hear all about the proposal. Tell me about your families. Tell me about your friends. Tell me about the adventures you’ve had together and the ones you’re planning for your future. I’ll be snapping away as we talk and I promise you’ll love how you look when you’re sharing about yourselves. If you’re feeling camera shy or not entirely comfortable opening up, consider inviting along a close friend or family member who can stand off camera and make you laugh. We’re all friends here – I really want us to feel like we’re just hanging out!
Choosing a location for your engagement session
As a couple, you probably have your favorite spots that you love going to together. A favorite park or hiking trail, neighborhood cafe, farmers market, or museum are all fun spots for an engagement session. No spot is too quirky – I’m always down for creativity!
Since I do much of my family photography at home, you can also consider your home for the session. I love documenting my clients in the space where they are most comfortable. Home-based sessions mean we can get fun shots in the kitchen making coffee or baking cookies, snuggled up on the couch, or enjoying your yard. Oh, and your pet can be included as well! Another bonus to an engagement session at home is easier wardrobe changes if you want to wear more than one outfit!
What to wear for your engagement session
I always suggest clients “shop their closets.” Look through your wardrobe and identify the pieces you love the most, the ones in which you feel comfortable and that show off your personality. You can dress up or be casual – it’s up to you! Whatever looks are most representative of you are what photograph best. A fun idea is to pick out an option or two for each other – the look you love to see your partner in best – and see if they coordinate well together. My only recommendation of what NOT to wear is matching outfits.
I also encourage clients to lean into colors and patterns. I love how bright hues photograph. You just want to make sure the colors and patterns work together. Lay your clothes options out next to each other to see how they look. Make sure the pieces compliment the vibe where we’re going to be shooting! If we’re shooting in your home, something casual is probably best. If we’re out and about, think about what you’d normally where to that specific location.
Planning for the wedding day
As we wrap up the session, we’ll have a chance to talk about the big day itself. I’m available to answer questions, regardless of where you are in the planning process. We can go over any details you have confirmed and I’m happy to advise on the timeline for the day, especially as it relates to photography. I want you to be able to enjoy your wedding and trust that I’m capturing the essential details.
Are you ready to put a ring on it and get your wedding date in the books? Let’s talk!
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