How to Plan for Your Engagement Session
Which "Look" Feels The Most Like You?
"Almost Famous"
Possible locations: Local bars/eateries, Downtown, Rooftops, Parking Lots, Urban Spaces
How to pull it off: Juxtaposition is key. Mixing classic staples with modern pieces is a great way to make any outfit stand out. Mixed textiles like leather and denim look great when paired with cool boots or trendy sneakers. Modern cuts with fun patterns mix it up a bit.
We love Katrina's use of a flowy skirt paired with a modern moto jacket and boots, along with a basic white tee for contrast. Gabriel's structured shirt and slim jeans look great with his clean white shoes.
"Netflix & Chill"
Possible Locations: You lucked out, you don't even need to leave your house!
How to pull it off: Soft and cozy layers mixed with comfy fitted basics with interesting detailing make for a cute and cozy session. Earth tones and neutrals work well in this setting. Small accessories can help to add a bit of visual interest (earrings, bracelets, etc).
We love how comfortable yet fashionable Eden and Brendan looked on their session! Brendan's black jeans and fitted denim shirt are cozy but not too relaxed, and Eden's simple striped shirt is boosted by a cute pleated skirt.
"Good Vibes Only"
Possible Locations: State Parks, Fields, Countryside, Mountains, Waterfalls.
How to pull it off: Think about staples for the trail, then dress it up slightly with pieces that have outdoorsy inspiration. Utility jackets, combat boots, panama hats, fitted jeans are all good picks. Earth tones in natural fibers work great here, maybe with one article of clothing brighter to "pop" in the photos.
Lauren's fitted jeans look great paired with her cute polka dot blouse, and the trim cuts keep this from looking like a family session. Stephan knew his stuff, keeping the pattern on his shirt a similar size to Lauren's. His outfit is well-tailored and pressed, and looks great with boots.
"Tasty Waves and a Cool Buzz"
Possible Locations: The beach!
How to pull it off: When you're shooting on the beach, it's all about motion. Think flowy skirts and dresses for ladies, and pants that are easily cuffed or chino shorts for men. Light cotton and linen fabrics work great in this setting, too. Shoes aren't too important as we'll most likely be tossing them off. If you've been hitting Crossfit, don't be afraid to bring your swimsuit - we're always down to get in the water!
Bentley's dress was long and flowy; perfect for a breezy beach session! We loved the floral pattern and straps around the shoulders for visual interest. David's classic white shirt looked light and comfortable, and a nice contrast to his darker chinos.
"No New Friends"
Possible Locations: Manicured City Park, Main Street, Skyline, Cocktail Bar
How to pull it off: A classic is a classic, but to keep it slightly more on-trend, look for subtle patterns that bring interest to your classic cuts. Elegant skirts and dresses, fitted classic tops and classy heels are a go-to for this look. Guys, think sports coats with a crisp button-down (small patterns modernize the look) and slim fit trousers or dark washed jeans. Nice leather oxfords or boots pair well to tie the look together.
We're in love with Michelle's skirt, as it PERFECTLY hits the "classically modern" look. Her fitted blouse contrasts the breezy fit of the skirt well, and her heels are a great match since it matches similar colors in the skirt and blouse. We really like that Ty chose a gray blazer and dark gray slacks, it's a nice departure from the navy blazer and khakis that most are used to in semi-formal occasions. His patterned shirt helps elevate this modern look, as do his rich leather boots.
"Cool Casual"
Possible Locations: Brewery, Coffee Shop, Local Park, Dog Park.
How to pull it off:
This look might be how you'd normally go out for dinner together, with a few extra touches. Subtle patterns are great with this look, especially when paired with interesting accessories. We'd limit your look to one statement piece, like a detailed necklace, or an oversized clothing item. Modern cut denim is always a good look here!
Natalie's pairing of an oversized knit sweater and fitted black jeans work so well together. The colors contrast sharply to create visual interest, and her matching earrings tie the whole look together! James' navy long sleeve crew is comfy, but fitted well so that he still looks sharp. His tan corduroys were the perfect pick for this winter session!
QUICK TIPS
Quick Tips
Look Sharp!
It's a good idea to make sure that your clothes for the session are well-tailored and pressed so that they look their absolute best.
More is...less?
Wear more makeup than you normally would, it will show up looking MUCH more natural on camera!
Liquid Courage
Have a drink or two together before the session to loosen up. Talk about your first date, cute things you've done for one another to get you all lovey-dovey before we start shooting!
A Bit More
A few things you may want to bring:
Water/Drink of choice – we usually shoot for an hour or two on the session, and it can get hot! Having some water or a drink handy will keep you cool and relaxed.
Towels or Blankets – these are always fun to incorporate into your set to get some different images. Sit or lay on them, wrap each other up, or do whatever you’re feeling!
Oil Blotters / Sweat Towel – Unfortunate reality check – sweat happens. Oil blotters will help to fight shine and keep you looking fresh. A sweat towel will help mop up during a summer session.
Hairbrush – We’re partial to wild, windy hair shots, but you may need something to tame your hair after.
Favorite Playlist – Music is probably the best thing that could happen during an engagement session. Bringing your favorites along is a great way for y’all to get loose!
Momentos – Things that are special to the two of you, whatever that may be. Your dog, travel books, favorite food, etc. Anything to make the session more “yours” is exactly what we’re looking for!
How to get the most from us:
1. Questions! Ask away, nothing’s off-limits.
2. Be your weird self! If you’re truly yourself on your session, the photos will really show it.
3. Be freakishly affectionate! Wrap each other up like a pretzel, hands always touching one another. Hugs/Kisses galore.
4. Jitters are OK! Who wouldn’t be nervous for their engagement session? Use that nervous energy to get great images – nervous laughter is the cutest!
5. Natural movement is key! We’ll give you tips, tricks and ideas while shooting, but it’s always the in-between shots when you’re not expecting it that you’re the most natural.
6. Be opinionated! We love when our clients have ideas they’d like to try or locations they’ve been dying to shoot. Tell us what you love and we’ll work together to make it happen.
Extra Inspo
Some more images from some of our favorite sessions!
