I love capturing engagement sessions for a couple of reasons. It's always nice to have a practice run before the big day, so you can get familiarized with my prompting and posing style and so I can see your dynamic in real life. But even more than that, I love getting to capture this special, fleeting season for my couples. In the grand scheme of things, the time in which you spend engaged is so short. Enjoy it. Commemorate it. And celebrate this milestone before we celebrate the next.
Celebrate before the celebration
ENGAGEMENT SESSIONS
I generally recommend scheduling your engagement session to take place 8-12 months before your wedding, to give you ample time to receive your images and use them for things like save-the-date cards and your wedding website.
You may email me as soon as you have a few dates in mind, but please note that I generally only book weekend sessions up to 2 months in advance, as weekends are held open for weddings. I will happily accommodate weekday sessions as an alternative option.
Because light is such a key component of my signature style, I typically schedule sessions around the last two hours before sunset. Sunrise sessions are also an option, and are perfect for locations that tend to get more crowded throughout the day.
picking a date and time
Scheduling your session
My first recommendation is to discuss with your partner what type of style you two are hoping for with your engagement session. Do you want your engagement photos to match the feel of your wedding, or are you wanting to have an entirely different aesthetic for these photos?
Once you two have an idea of what you're looking for, I'm happy to recommend some locations! I'm also happy to travel to wherever you'd like to have your session. Please be aware that some locations may require special permits, parking, or admission fees.
Where are we headed?
SELECTING A LOCATION
GALLERIES OF some of my favorite locations
JELLY BOWL
carpinteria Bluffs nature preserve
The number one rule when selecting the outfits you'll be wearing in front of the camera is to choose pieces that make you feel confident and comfortable. Keeping that in mind, I highly recommend dressing up for your session! This is a special time in your lives, and I believe it deserves special consideration.
Rather that matching each other exactly, try to pick outfits and accessories that coordinate. Coordinated colors feel cohesive while still looking effortlessly put together. I love soft pastels and neutrals and believe they best compliment the light, airy style of my photography.
Feel free to use the sample palettes below for inspiration!
What to wear
CHOOSING YOUR OUTFITS
