You have found your forever partner and are now engaged! Congratulations! I am so excited for you two and want to do everything I can to make the photography portion as stress free as possible! Today I thought I would share a few tips when it comes to preparing for your engagement session.
TIMING
Why do some images just seem to have that dreamy glowy lighting? This is because they were probably taken during “the golden hour.” To schedule your session for these type of images, use a sunset calculator online to determine the scheduled sunset for the date and location you’d like to have your session. Then, just subtract two hours to figure out your session's start time. Remember, the sun sets much earlier during the colder months of the year and much later during the warmer months, so make sure to factor that in when choosing your portrait session date, especially if you’re taking off work or planning to go out after.
To get the most out of your session, try to plan a buffer when getting ready so you can arrive a few minutes early. It also helps if you arrive to your session in your wardrobe. Your images will be the dreamiest when the sun is still in the sky, so you will want to take advantage of every minute before the sun goes down.
LOCATION
This is totally up to you! Think outside the box! I encourage you to brainstorm unique locations that you might have special access to that most people don’t. For example, maybe you, or someone in your personal or professional network, can secure permission to a location that would otherwise be off-limits, like a beautiful private estate, country club or a balcony in the French Quarter. Maybe it’s a family ranch, upscale hotel or even a boat, airplane hangar or a rooftop view. The sky is literally the limit! Spend a few minutes thinking about it and checking around. You’ll be surprised with what you come up with. Plus, if something seems out of reach, just remember: you never know until you ask! If you get stuck or need inspiration, just go on Pintrest and get lost in some ideas. For most of my sessions, outdoor, open-air environments are always my first choice. I love shooting in wide-open natural spaces because the light is divine, especially during golden hour. There are great options around every state, so even if you've never seen me photograph in a specific spot before, I am always up for exploring a new spot together!
Here are some places to start:
Fontainebleau State Park . . . My favorite!!!!
Longue Vue House & Gardens:
A Hay Field in Abita Springs:
The French Quarter:
Central Business District:
New Orleans Botanical Gardens:
City Park
Nottoway Plantation
Your home
. . . and MORE!
I have had couples request two locations, please note, this will take away some time from the beautiful light due to the travel time. It is totally doable, but may feel slightly rushed. I recommend choosing one location, don’t worry I will get an assortment of shots, not to mention I offer two outfit changes in your session!
STYLING
Treat this like a fancy night out with your soon to be with a romantic gown, tulle skirt, sequin gown, or a flower crown with a flowy skirt or dress. This is your chance to sparkle!
Remember: There is no such thing as “too dressed up” when it comes to your portrait session! Don’t be afraid to have some fun! If you don’t want to add a new permanent piece to your collection, a lot of clients love Rent the Runway for their sessions because it’s such an affordable way to feel like a million bucks.
Can’t decide on one outfit, bring them both! I love when clients bring more than one look as it gives them a larger assortment of images to choose from. Come dressed and ready. If you want to wear heels, it is super helpful to bring a comfy pair of shoes to wear in between. Also, I may not always be photographing your whole body and would like you to be comfortable when you can.
Upon booking your engagement session with LFP, you will receive a Style Guide with more details on these topics including how to prepare your partner's wardrobe. There is also a section on how to help them feel more comfortable about being in front of the camera.
My weekends tend to fill up quickly and quite far in advance, as does the fall season. You can get a Fast Pass to the front of the line by scheduling 1-2 months in advance. There is also more availability for portrait sessions on Mondays-Fridays. Schedule yours today!
Hope this information helps and as always, feel free to email with any questions, lauraflannerystudio@gmail.com