Featuring images from Kelli + Colin’s Estate at River Run portrait session.
Wedding planning begins almost immediately after you say “yes!” and it can all be a bit overwhelming and honestly daunting at times. Most commonly, couples start their planning process by researching photographers so that they can get their save-the-dates (you don’t have to use portraits for save-the-dates!) and secure their wedding date.
Photography is definitely an investment and it is one worth taking so that all of your memories during this season of life are preserved for generations to come. There are probably a million questions you have about photography in general, but today I want to hone in on engagement sessions and the most common questions I get asked.
Do I even need engagement photos?
Simply, YES!
In all of my wedding packages I offer a complimentary engagement session because I find them beyond important. Whether a small or grand affair, an engagement session allows you time to get to know your photographer before your wedding day. For an hour you get personal experience in front of the same camera that will be present on your big day. This offers you a level of comfort and practice as you get to know what angles work best for you. During the session you get to be a bit more relaxed than on your wedding day and play with your partner.
My biggest tip is to always use that complimentary engagement session even if you had photos taken previously!
How far in advance do we need to schedule the session?
There is no right or wrong answer.
If you want the images for save-the-dates or just because I recommend 6 weeks before you want to send them out. This gives ample time for the photographer to edit all of the images, send any film to the lab, and have your save-the-dates made (if you choose to use an image of yourself for them; I personally love save-the-dates without pictures).
If you aren’t in a rush, no biggie. I’ve even had brides and grooms schedule their session the day before the wedding! There really is no bad timing.
What should we wear?
This is perhaps the biggest question asked and the one that brings couples the most anxiety when planning their engagement session.
With all of my couples, I work with you and provide lots of resources to help guide you and your fiance as you pick out your wardrobe. Weeks prior, I send you an Engagement Guide that goes over wardrobe trips and tricks as well as stores that are great for the desired look that you are going for. I even put together a bespoke mood board with tons of outfit inspiration.
Is there a preferred time of day for the session?
Lighting is everything when it comes to photography and well sometimes weather does it own thing, but that should never hinder a photographer.
With that said, I do recommend certain times of day that give the best lighting. I either suggest starting the session 2 hours after sunrise or 2 hours before sunset. This will give you the sought after golden hour glow. If this happens to not be the time that works best or if it is an overcast day, do not fret! Gorgeous photos can still be captured at high noon while under the shade of a gorgeous building or whimsical tree. Your hired a great photographer and I hope that you will trust them and their experience.
For thoughts on choosing an engagement session location click here!
Last thoughts.
Your time as an engaged couple is magical and amazing. I believe it is a time in your lives that deserves to be celebrated and preserved because it goes by a lot quicker than you realize. Before you know it you’ll be smiling at your soon-to-be husband as you walk down the aisle.
So take a deep breath, know that all the details of wedding planning will be there tomorrow, grab your beverage of choice, snuggle your partner, and enjoy engagement bliss.
Ready to book? Contact me here.
Venue: Estate at River Run
Film Lab: PhotoVision Prints
