There’s a lot of information out there about engagement sessions. A lot of good information. A lot of distracting information. I’ve been lucky enough to photograph a lot of engagement sessions over the years and I’d like to share a few ideas to make your session a true reflection of who you as a couple.
Element 1: Location
I ask two questions to get your wheels turning. If you had a free afternoon, how would you spend your time? And, do you have a location that’s special to you?
The foundation to my approach is your session should be a reflection of you as a couple. We’re capturing this time in your life so you can revisit it down the road and remember what your engaged life was like. We want the elements of the session to be a reflection of who you are and how you spend your time together.
In Southern California we’re spoiled with beautiful beaches. We spend a lot of time on the beach and it’s a meaningful place for a us.
Like Sarah and Chris’s session in Malibu where Chris grew up and also proposed to Sarah.
Maybe your session will be at home, like Alex and Issa.
Think about places that are a reflection of you. Not only does this create another layer of meaning in your photographs, it also leads us to our next topic; an added level of familiarity and comfort during our session.
Element 2: Nervousness and Letting Go
Most likely you haven’t been photographed this way so you may feel a little nervous when we begin. The feeling is mutual. I’m always a little nervous before each session, too.
One way to lessen the nerves is getting you to focus on each other. I repeat this a lot during a session. The reason is simple but very important. When you’re focused on each other your comfort level skyrockets. With this approach I’ve seen couples do things that are completely unique to themselves.
Like the way Nick wraps himself around Danielle.
The way they simply hold hands.
Or the way Chris makes Kathryn laugh.
I want you to feel connected, safe and confident. All my favorite human elements (connection, love, comfort, chemistry) shine in an image when you’ve let go.
It all comes from the foundation of providing you the space to just be with one another, as if I wasn’t there.
Most of all, life’s short…let’s have some fun!
Element 3: What to Wear
By far this is the most frequently asked question.
My answer to this is pretty simple. Be comfortable in what you’re wearing and use a classic approach to your choices.
Comfort is probably the most important. If you begin fidgeting with what you’re wearing because it doesn’t fit just right or if you’re wearing something that needs constant adjustments, I’ve found you’re not able to lose yourself in the moment.
Classic? Wear something you’re confident will look great now and in 10 years. Deep down you know what looks best on you and what you’re most comfortable in. Follow those instinctual reactions and go with it!
Element 4: Time
The final, and very important, element to our session is Time of day. Typically, the best light during the day is called golden hour, which refers to the final hour of light as the sun moves closer to the horizon and gives us that soft glow we all love.
So, when we’re planning your session be prepared to start about an hour before sunset.
Ultimately, our time together is about you, your chemistry together, and giving you a great experience.
I hope these insights and suggestions help when planning for your session.
Bryan