Getting The Most Out Of Engagement Sessions
Lindsey and Ryan's session on Mascoma Lake in Enfield, New Hampshire
Happy 2017 y'all!
It's January, the time of year where couples would rather be inside planning their weddings than braving the cold (it gets down to -30 sometimes up on our mountain), so until our first wedding next month we're also inside this time of year in front of the woodstove, answering booking inquiries, getting our gear into shape for the season, and working on archiving and workflow.
I also find this time of year perfect for sharing advice for slam dunking your wedding (and engagement photos). Our couples have taught us so much about being yourself and enjoying the moment, so I'll divulge some of the most helpful things I've learned and shared to my couples.
Sydney and Ben's session in Strafford, Vermont
Engagement sessions not only help you get to know your photographer, but your significant other: Think of it as a dress rehearsal to your wedding photos/hang out session with your best friend + some new friends (your photographers). You learn what makes you both the most comfortable in the session, and there's generally a lot of laughing involved.
Sarah and Yamil (with August the dog) in the Boston Public Gardens
They're a great time to bring your pet(s): I think my favorite email to get from a couple is: "oh! can we bring our dog to the session too?" Engagement sessions are a low-stress way to involve your dog without introducing him to the craziness of the wedding day, and it gives you one more fun thing to interact with in the session.
Kara and Pete's Session on the backroads of Strafford, Vermont
Wear what makes you feel at your best: Another question we're often asked- "what should I wear?" My first response is always: what makes you feel at your best, whether that's a dress or jeans. I'll elaborate a bit and say solid colors show best in photographs, and adding a statement piece (such as a necklace, scarf, or coat), makes it that much more about your style.
Cara and Ivan's Engagement Session at the Tunbridge Fair
The sky's the limit: Never feel like your session should be restrained to poses in pretty places. Make it about you. Whether it's us following you around for a night at the local fair, baking cookies in your kitchen together, or going on a hike to a favorite mountain, do things you enjoy doing together in real life. You'll get photos you love, while still having a real experience.
So in summary: make it as fun, comfortable, and full of pets as possible!
-Sarah