Engagement Session
Engagement Session
I'm a big fan of engagement sessions for a few reasons. Not only do they allow you to get comfortable in front of the camera, it also gives you the opportunity to showcase your personalities in a more casual setting that is significant to the two of you. I've created an entire page dedicated to outfit tips, location ideas, timing considerations and more!
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Is a First Look Right for You?
IF YOU’RE WONDERING WHETHER A FIRST LOOK IS RIGHT FOR YOU, STOP HERE.
First looks are a private moment couples choose to see each other and spend time together before the wedding ceremony. No matter how or when it happens, seeing each other for the first time on your wedding day is one of those unforgettable, heart-stopping moments. And this is true whether you choose to wait to see each other in the aisle or decide to do a first look. I’m a huge fan because we can capture so much more before the ceremony, such as wedding party photos, couple portraits, and even family photos. You can also share private vows, making it an intimate and emotional experience.
First look or not, the first time you see each other on your wedding day will always be a special moment you’ll cherish forever.
3 REASONS TO CONSIDER A FIRST LOOK:
1. A FIRST LOOK CUTS THROUGH THE CHAOS OF THE DAY
Once the ceremony begins, the day takes off quickly. A ‘first look’ is an opportunity to enjoy some quiet time alone, enjoy each other’s company, and reflect on all this day means before your day takes off. Wedding days can be a whirlwind, and they tend to fly by. There’s much to do, and a lot of people to see and to catch up with. I like to encourage my couples to take a few minutes every so often during their wedding to stop and soak in everything that’s happening.
2. IT MAKES MORE TIME FOR PICTURES WITHOUT SACRIFICING COCKTAIL HOUR
Without a first look, most photos happen after the ceremony, starting with family portraits, then the wedding party, and finally the couple. This often runs into cocktail hour. With a first look, some photos can happen beforehand, giving you more time to enjoy cocktail hour and a more relaxed evening while still capturing bride and groom portraits later, often at sunset.
3. AVOID POSSIBLE BAD WEATHER AND/OR HAVE TIME TO FRESHEN UP
If you’re expecting poor weather on your wedding day, it might be best to plan on a first look because it gives you more options for pictures. If it’s pouring rain after the ceremony, you’ll be thankful you had pictures done in advance. And reason 3b is for all you cryers out there. If you know the tears are going to fly the first time you see your other half the day of your wedding, a first look will give you time to freshen up before the ceremony.
Wedding Day Details
EVERY LITTLE DETAIL MATTERS
Your wedding details help tell the full story of your special day. Even the smallest pieces, such as your rings, invitations, and shoes, are thoughtfully chosen and filled with meaning, reflecting your style, love, and the intention behind every choice. Capturing them preserves those quiet, often overlooked moments that beautifully complete the bigger picture.
Additional Tips
IT'S YOUR DAY, THERE ARE NO RULES!
- If you’re getting married in the summer months, a “not-so-heavy” snack or water break before portraits is always a good idea for you and your bridal party to avoid hungry bellies and passing out!
- Make sure your bouquet is delivered in time to make an appearance for the detail shots and first look. Often, they are delivered in water and need to be dried off before use.
- If you’re planning on having a first look with your bridal party or a parent, they often feel more comfortable being fully dressed in their wedding attire.
- If your reception is at a separate venue, add some “fluff time” so that we can run over to the venue to capture it while it’s still untouched by guests.
- To help make family portraits go smoothly, it’s best to have a breakdown of what portraits you’d like, and it’s really wonderful if both sides of the family have a chance to have their input on what portraits they’d like before the wedding. Supplying me with a list ahead of time, we can go over it and make sure we shoot things in an order that is efficient and won’t leave anyone out.
- During the cocktail hour and the reception, I’ll be following you around. Anytime you’d like a photo with someone, just grab my attention. I love being your personal paparazzi!
THANK YOU!
Thank you so much for taking the time to read through this guide! I hope it helps make the process of planning your wedding details a little easier and less stressful. If you have any questions or would just like to chat, don't hesitate to reach out. I'm here for you!
