Where do you go from here? How do you prepare for your session? Here you will find all of the answers & guidance you need to prepare for an amazing engagement session with us. Leaving you with images that you can cherish for a lifetime.
Comfort is Key
We personally believe that comfort is one of the most important aspects to getting that “perfect photo.” If you are uncomfortable- chances are, it will radiate in your final photos. One of the biggest factors that impacts our comfort the most, are the clothes that we wear. When it comes to picking outfits for you and your spouse, it is important to wear something that you would typically wear. For example, if a mini dress with 5-inch heels isn’t usually your cup of tea- we would suggest NOT wearing this. Obviously you want to look your best, so wear something you feel confident in. Something that matches your personality, but also clothing that you won’t be tugging and adjusting on throughout the session. A lot of times we suggest bringing layers whenever possible. This allows us to get multiple looks and have accessories for different shots and areas throughout the shoot. Ultimately this gives you a bigger variety of photos to work with when you receive your gallery.
Most people think you need to go out and buy a brand-new outfit instead of sticking to something relatively new that has been worn and washed and confirmed to fit exactly the way you like it to. Of course a new outfit is exciting, so we totally get it- treat yo’ self. Our advice on this- get it well in advance of your shoot so that you can wear it once or twice and have the opportunity to wash it and make sure it doesn’t shrink in places it shouldn’t, etc. Once you’ve landed the outfit, it’s time to iron & steam that sucker up. Get all of the wrinkles. Some wrinkles are expected and can often be edited out, however if you show up with your clothes looking like they just came out of the back of your dresser drawer, this will be a huge distraction in the image and will make all parties involved very sad (yes, including us).
Next up! Colors! Colors are very important when it comes to achieving great images. If we are doing your shoot in a green setting- it’s probably not a good idea to wear green or natural toned colors. We want you guys to stand out, not blend in with the background. There is a lot of flexibility when it comes to color. When in doubt, ask! That’s what we are here for. To make sure your pictures are perfect. We would also literally NEVER tell our couples to match. Coordinate, sure. Match, never. This can be just as big of a distraction as a wrinkled shirt. It’s important that your photos are consistent and flow well together. Wear colors/textures that complement each other. You could even both have “pops” of the same color in each of your outfits.
CHECK OUT OUR BLOG ON NAILING THE PERFECT OUTFIT HERE!
Hair and Makeup
Although this isn’t necessary- some brides like to use this as an opportunity to “trial” with their makeup artist & hair stylist. However, if you are planning to book a bridal session with us, we would advise using the trial for that instead of your engagement session. If you do decide to book someone for hair & makeup, make sure they are available on the date that you scheduled your session with us in advance so that you do not miss your opportunity to book with them.
Pets and Kids
Your engagement photos should be an accurate representation of what love means to you. Often times this includes our beloved little ones. Whether they have four legs, or two. We can absolutely arrange to have your pets or children in the shot. However, if you do decide to do this, please arrange this with us in advance. Furthermore, we require that you have a close friend or family member join us during the session so they can either take your kids/pets home after we get through those photos OR so they can watch after your little ones so we can focus on the more intimate engagement photos with just you and your spouse.
Bad Weather
When it comes to weather, especially here in Virginia, you never actually know what it’s going to do. Don’t worry. We are constantly watching the weather and have absolutely no problem rescheduling in advance due to inclement weather. However, we are also okay with waiting until the day of to reschedule, for you dare devils. Either way, we will make sure your images are exactly what you are looking for and we know the weather plays a huge role in doing that!
Nerves got you down?
We know just how overwhelming it can be being in front of the camera. We got married in 2017. We have been in your shoes. We will do absolutely everything we can to make sure that you feel comfortable for your session. Our goal is to make you forget that we are even there. Our photo journalistic style of photography allows us to capture the intimate candid moments that mean the most. We always tell our couples to focus on the love you have for one another. Think about the excitement of this new chapter you are taking in life together. This is a very happy time in your lives, and your photos should reflect just that!
