Getting ready for your engagement session might feel like a whirlwind of decisions – from choosing the perfect spot to figuring out what to wear and when to schedule everything. But fret not! I’ve got your back with some down-to-earth advice gathered from the questions my clients ask the most. Together, let’s dive into some tips that’ll help you and your partner not just navigate but totally rock your engagement session. Ready for the fun? Let’s dive in!
Engagement Sessions are so engaging. But should we do one?
As the air fills with romance and the excitement of a lifetime together builds up in the weeks leading to your wedding, you might find yourself questioning the necessity of an engagement shoot. I mean, don’t the wedding photos capture the start of your journey together?
Well, here’s the thing – an engagement session holds its own kind of magic. As a couple, it allows you to get comfortable in front of the camera and find your groove with your photographer before the big day. Plus, it’s an opportunity to let your personalities shine in a more laid-back setting, creating not just pictures but memories that can adorn your walls, wedding sign-in book, canvases at the ceremony, and even your Thank You cards. And hey, if timed right, these images can also grace your Save the Date cards and invitations.
But the best part? It’s a chance to capture the essence of this special time, just the two of you, away from the hustle and bustle of loved ones and friends. These are the personal memories that will stay with you forever. Let’s dive into why an engagement session is more than just a prelude to the wedding – it’s a celebration of your unique love story.
Where should we take our engagement photos?
There are a lot of locations to choose from for engagement photos, but maybe you’re thinking about a spot that’s got some history for the two of you. You may be a little shy and leaning towards a quieter, more intimate setting with fewer people. It could even be your home or a fun Airbnb you use to capture this special moment’s essence. And, hey, if you’re all about chasing that golden hour glow, we can definitely find a stunning location with dreamy light! No matter your engagement session location, it should mirror your relationship and blend in bits of your awesome personalities. It’s about creating a visual story that’s uniquely yours. Let’s find that perfect spot that speaks to you both!
California has so much to offer: beautiful blue coastlines with cliffside bluffs, spacious deserts, mountain peaks, and gigantic redwood trees. Southern California boasts some of the planet’s most breathtaking engagement session spots. If you’re exploring the Los Angeles area, get ready for a treat with options like the lively Santa Monica Pier, the architectural wonderland of the Walt Disney Concert Hall, The colorful walls of the Art District, or the serene gardens at one of my favorites, The Los Angeles Arboretum. For a touch of regality, there’s the Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills or the iconic Griffith Observatory in the heart of Hollywood. Or suppose your vibe is more Orange County. In that case, there are beautiful spots like the many Orange County parks, sculpture gardens, and the beautiful coastal views of Laguna Beach or any Pacific-kissed beaches California offers.
Whether you’re drawn to the seaside charm of Santa Barbara or the chic mid-century vibes and beautiful desert light of Palm Springs, Southern California offers many choices to match your unique aesthetic as a couple. I’ve compiled a list of top-notch locations for your engagement sessions around Southern California; it covers everything about the location, from whether you need a permit to the best time of year to photograph there. Let’s explore and find that perfect backdrop that speaks to your style!
What is the best day for the engagement session?
Now, when it comes to scheduling your engagement session, weekdays at most locations or the best. Avoid the holidays if you can. From my experience, Mondays and Tuesdays seem to be the least crowded days, giving you more space to soak in the moment.
What is the best time of day for the engagement session?
I always guide my couples to aim for that magical one-and-a-half hours before sunset or start ten minutes before sunrise. Your chosen location might just influence the choice between sunrise and sunset engagement sessions. Timing is everything, especially when eyeing popular public locations such as Laguna Beach in the summertime or maybe Griffith Observatory, with its stunning LA views and architecture. Sure, it’s a dreamy spot, but it can get pretty busy during the golden hour, and the parking is out of control and not the prime time for photography. So, for locations buzzing with activity all day, like Griffith Park and the beach in the summertime, I always suggest you do a sunrise session.
Now, when it comes to timing, my go-to is that golden window – the last hour-and-a-half before the sun bids adieu. Why? Honestly, the first bit of a photoshoot can feel slightly awkward. And unless you’re a seasoned model, it’s totally normal! That’s why an hour and a half is the sweet spot for an engagement session; it gives you just the right amount of time for you and your partner to hit your stride while bathing in the best light.
Another thing about lighting and locations is where we are at. Like engagement sessions in Palm Springs, the sun sets behind the mountain about an hour before, so in some cases, we would start a little early to compensate for the fading light. Even though we’ll still have some daylight to play with, we don’t want to miss that golden glow that everyone swoons over. Let’s keep those rays on our side!
What should we wear for our engagement session?
As a photographer, I often find myself fielding a common question about the ideal attire for engagement sessions. In response, I’ve compiled a blog post featuring some visual suggestions and tips that, in my experience, tend to yield the most pleasing results. These insights offer helpful cues on what works well – and what might not – in the realm of photography. It’s crucial to remember that these are not rigid directives; rather, they stand as friendly recommendations. Fashion, after all, is subjective. Consider these suggestions as friendly nudges rather than strict rules, allowing your personal style to shine through.
Now, while we are talking about clothing – the eternal question: to outfit change or not? While the option is totally on the table, here’s a friendly heads-up. We might be doing a lot of walking away from the car, and lugging multiple outfits can get a tad cumbersome. Plus, not every location comes with a backstage changing room; if you catch my drift, if you don’t, you might be changing in behind a bush. So, consider that in the outfit-change decision.
If you do decide on an outfit change and one of your looks is a little more dressed up, my pro tip is to save that one for the sunset.
As we wrap up this post on engagement session preparation, I hope you’re feeling inspired and ready to embark on this visual celebration of your unique love story. From choosing the perfect location to navigating wardrobe choices and timing them right – it’s all about capturing those special moments authentically.
If you’re eager to bring your vision to life, have more questions, or want to discuss your engagement session further, I’m here for you! Let’s connect and turn your dream session into a reality. Click here to contact me today, and let’s start planning the perfect engagement session that reflects your love in all its beauty. Can’t wait to hear from you and be a part of this exciting chapter!