ENGAGEMENT SESSION TIPS
Location
We LOVE exploring new locations to photograph. And we believe that your images will be most meaningful if you select a location relevant to your story as a couple. We can make an interesting photo almost anywhere, so consider all the things you like to do together.
Some ideas to get you started:
-Where you met
-Your first date
-Where you proposed
-Your favorite bar, restaurant or neighborhood
-Your home or backyard
-Your hobbies such as skiing, surfing, hiking, biking, watching movies, playing video games, bowling, going to concerts
Take a look at our engagement gallery for other location ideas
Some of our favorite spots are:
-The SE waterfront and east bank esplanade near OMSI
-The St. Johns Bridge and Cathedral Park
-Peninsula, Laurelhurst or Mt. Tabor Park
-Hoyt Arboretum or The Rose Garden in Washington Park
Consider: What kind of mood do you want your photos to reflect? Do you like the outdoors, an urban landscape, or a more formal look?
PLEASE BE ON TIME! Photo sessions will commence immediately at the time agreed upon. Timing of the light is very important and we might have another client scheduled right after you.
Google your location ahead of time and plan to arrive 15 minutes early just in case.
Clothing
The most important thing is to select clothing that makes you feel confident, sexy, and comfortable! We want you to have a great time at your session and not worry about your clothing. Please arrive to your session dressed and ready to go.
We recommend selecting two different outfits for variation in your images for 1 hour sessions. Please select one casual and one more formal outfit. Suggestions for more formal attire include: dresses, skirts, nice blouses, heels, sandals, dress shirts, ties, slacks, dress shoes, or jackets. Suggestions for more casual attire include: Jeans, t-shirts, button up short sleeved shirts, sun dresses, shorts, kakis, or your favorite sports jerseys or gear.
When in doubt bring extra options with you and we can decide at the session. Feel free to call or text us a photo of your clothing before the session for feedback.
When selecting clothing, consider the color palate. For example if your partner is in a green shirt, consider wearing a shirt in a different (but similar) shade of green, or wear a neutral color and use green as an accent color on a tie, shoes, socks, jewelry or accessory. Use color to tie your outfits together and create a cohesive style. Also keep in mind the location of your photo shoot. What would you normally be wearing in that situation? Think about the colors in the environment (grass, cement, trees, sky, sand, etc.) and make sure they will not clash with your attire.
We strongly suggest avoiding bright colors, busy patterns and logos on your clothing unless they are relevant to your story (such as a sports jersey or uniform). Simple is usually best, as we do not want your clothing to detract from your smiling faces or take over the images.
Consider adding accessories such as scarfs, ties, jewelry, hats, purses, or hairbands.
Assemble your outfits the night before your session to avoid any unnecessary hassle the day of. Make sure they are wrinkle free, clean and free of all stains and pet hair.
If you are wearing uncomfortable shoes or high heels bring a pair of flip flops to change into while walking between locations or not being photographed.
Some locations do not have restrooms so be prepared. Layer clothing with a tank top so you can change easily in public or we can help shield you while you change in your car.
Dress accordingly for the weather. Bring an umbrella or coat to keep dry and warm in between photos, or even ones you want to be photographed with. If it's hot bring a hanky or tissues to wipe sweat.
Props & Theme Inspiration
Some clients like to incorporate props into their session. Consider your hobbies and what you like to do together as a couple. Some classic ideas to help inspire you:
-A chalkboard and chalk to write your wedding date or sweet nothings on.
-A blanket and picnic basket with a bottle of wine and snacks.
-Balloons that match your outfits or wedding colors.
-Your pets! Make sure to bring treats, some favorite toys and a friend to help hold them during the session. Consider matching your pet's collar/leash color to your clothing or splurge and get them a coordinating bow tie!
-Musical instruments to serenade one another.
-A favorite board game, book, or beverage. Adult beverages can help you relax and are welcome within reason.
-Your car, bicycle, motorcycle, boat or plane! Please let us know ahead of time so we can prepare.
-Sports gear, memorabilia or attire. Show your love for each other and your team(s)!
-Additional family members such as your children. Please let us know ahead of time and we can do a mini family session.
-Sparklers, flowers, bubbles, umbrellas, flags or vintage furniture. The possibilities are endless!
Body/Skin/Hair/Makeup
Drink plenty of water the day of and before your photo session.
Avoid sun, salt, and new products the week before.
Get at least 8 hours of sleep for glowing skin.
Your hands will be in your photographs. Make sure your nails are clean or freshly polished and shaped. Do not forget your feet and toenails if you are wearing open toed shoes!
Bring a brush, hairspray, hair ties and bobby pins in case of wind.
Coordinate your makeup or hair stylist to do your wedding day trial for your engagement session. Typically, makeup a little heavier than you normally wear will look great in photos. If you want a natural look, a little lip gloss goes a long way and mascara can work wonders to make your eyes pop.