I get asked sometimes, “What is your favorite thing to photograph?” Honestly, I love photographing many genres from weddings to newborns-I think it keeps things fresh! But, if you absolutely MADE me choose, engagements would likely be at the top of the list. Two people in love with no pressure to be anywhere else….and it’s SO much more than just a photo session. It’s a time where I get to see how you, as a couple, interact. Are you a couple that likes to laugh a lot? Do you hate PDA’s? Are you a snuggly couple? I want to give you gorgeous portraits that when you look at them, you think, “This is SO us!”
All of this is important to me as I get to know you and as you become comfortable with me. It creates TRUST! Come wedding day, we’ll knock it out of the park together!
Absolutely!!! As I said above, it helps us get to know each other and allows you to become comfortable in front of the camera. That alone is reason enough! One of the best parts is there is no time pressure like on wedding day and we can go wherever we choose to make gorgeous images. I find that most couples prefer to have a large canvas on the wall from their engagement session as it’s more casual and how you both look every day.
My first and only rule: Do NOT dress like twins. I love when couples wear outfits that they are comfortable in. Ladies: you all have that outfit or pair of jeans that you KNOW you look good in. Wear THAT! If you feel good in what you’re wearing, that will come through in your body language! When selecting outfits, think “coordinate.” Don’t be afraid to mix colors, patterns and textures. And when in doubt, just ask. I’ll help guide you!
Each session is unique to the couple and I love to ask if there are any places that have special meaning for you. Anytime I can incorporate things you love just makes the images more special. Don’t have a place in mind? That’s fine too! I’ll take your outfits and find locations that make them look amazing!
Let’s just take a slight pause here so I can explain my stance on pinterest. I’ll start by saying I LOVE pinterest. I really do. It’s a great tool for gathering ideas and keeping them organized. It’s also great for inspiration. What isn’t great from a creative stand point is that the images you are in love with are the best of the best of numerous sessions. It’s not a true representation of a single session. And the 20 images you are dying to show me are likely the same 20 images another couple wanted me to replicate….see where I’m going here?
I would love for you to send me a few images that are your favorites, but don’t just ask me to replicate them. Tell me “why” you like those images. Is it the lighting? The mood? The amazing mountain landscape? Well, remember first that we reside in the midwest ;) But knowing why you love an image helps me to take your idea and create something unique for you that you will love even more. Once I understand the feeling you want your images to evoke, I can make them uniquely yours and you’ll have images that other couples want to pin!
My opinion is the sooner the better. Even if you have a long engagement, having your engagement pictures taken sooner gives you even more time to enjoy them! Think about what season appeals to you or locations you would like to use and that will help you decide.