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ENGAGEMENT SESSION GUIDE

I strive to capture your love story genuinely. I want your photographs to truly tell that story in the most amazing way! That begins with an engagement session because I believe those photos capture such a special time in your lives, and because I love getting to know you and your style before the wedding day! 

During your engagement session, you’ll have the chance to get to know me, experience how I shoot and how I handle posing and lighting.  This session will make a HUGE impact on how the wedding day flows.  I’ll arrive on your wedding day already knowing how you two interact and how you feel the most comfortable. What you learn during your engagement session is invaluable. You will feel like such a pro on your big day because of the great practice you had.  Plus, the photos are perfect for your Save the Dates!

Engagement sessions typically last approximately one hour and we can plan on one optional outfit change. Sessions take place the last hour and a half before the sun goes down. Depending on the light and the time of the year, this may be 4-5pm in the fall/winter and 6-7pm start time in the spring/summer. The light during this time will be soft and stunning!

As you start to plan for your engagement shoot, you will need to start brainstorming about some location ideas.  I LOVE it when couples pick a location that is special or sentimental to them in some way. If you can’t think of anywhere specific that you would like to shoot just check out the links below to some fave locations.  As long as the light is great, I can make ANY location look awesome! I shoot on farms, campuses, downtown alleys and even coffee shops. The more creative, the better!

The best images are always those in which the person photographed feels comfortable.  Ideally your choice of clothing also represents who you are or even who you want to be, whether casual, elegant, rugged or hip. Here are a few tips that will help guide you in your clothing choices and reminders of things not to forget.

Need some visual help dreaming up perfect outfits? Check out my Pinterest Board with all kinds of inspiration:  https://www.pinterest.com/stephaniewphoto/what-to-wear/what-to-wear-engagement/

Just a reminder…if it is a rainy day we recommend keeping the appointment and we will find fun interior locations for you.  If you have your heart set on an outdoor shoot and it rains, of course we can reschedule. 

TIP #1

Being too matchy-matchy can come off as distracting. Pick outfits and accessories that coordinate in tones. i.e. jewel tones, pastels, earth tones.

TIP #2

Neutral/earth tone colors are always a safe bet! Neutrals don’t just mean white; try blush, cream, grey, tan, light blue or denim. Then, along with your neutrals, add a pop of color somewhere!

TIP # 3

Accessorize and make your outfits your own. Layers and textures translate great on camera. Scarves, bold necklaces, fun shoes, sweaters and jackets create depth in your outfits.

TIP #4

MOST PATTERNS are actually great... however, graphics and logos are a no-go. If you’re wearing a pattern, make sure it’s not overwhelming or distracting.

TIP #5

Don’t forget the details! A fresh manicure will show off your ring, while polished shoes and even the simplest earrings can create a more styled look.

TIP #6

I advise to have one casual outfit and then one outfit that is dressier/formal. This will give your shoot two totally different looks. If you don’t want to bother with a change of outfit go with the dressy outfit.

TIP #7

If you don’t usually spray tan now is not the time to start. A spray tan tends to give a muddy appearance on camera. Trust me no tan is better then strange skin tone.

TIP #8

(favorite tip) Ladies...you can schedule your makeup trial for the morning of your e-shoot, this can really help boost your confidence and definitely makes you pop in your photos. If it’s not possible to schedule that day then apply makeup a tad heavier then normal.

TIP #9

Relax! You don’t have to be a pro at this. I’m going to help you along the way and it’s going to be a blast. Enjoy this time together and make a date out of it. Plan dinner afterwards and celebrate!!

LOCATION IDEAS

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