Why an engagement session?

All EP Photography & Videography Wedding Collections include a complimentary Engagement Session. I love getting my couples in front of my camera before their wedding day! I want to capture your wedding from a friend's perspective so I can tell your story in a more personal way. Our hour and a half together during your engagement session plays a huge role in me being the best I can be for you. During our Engagement Session, we will get to know each other, get more comfortable with the photo process, and ease the nerves of the wedding day photos. It helps me know how to better coach you through portrait time during your wedding and how you naturally interact with each other. I find the engagement session to be one of the most important parts of our pre-wedding process. 


Photoshoots can be a bit overwhelming -picking outfits, locations, getting ready, and then just trying to smile in a way that doesn’t make you look like you’ve spent the last week stressing over it. In this blog, I’m going to answer some common questions and share 3 tips so you feel as informed, prepared, and relaxed as possible. 


session details

Our complimentary engagement session lasts 1.5hr which allows for one location and two outfits! The first 30min of our time together will be spent chatting and getting comfortable with one another over a coffee on me! I find that my couples have a much easier time relaxing and feeling natural in front of the camera when we're able to chat for a while before jumping into the shooting process. 


Scheduling

When is the best time for your engagement session? There’s no hard and fast rule here, but I recommend around six months before your wedding. If you're planning further out, you can pick your favorite time of year, and if you’re asking my opinion, spring sessions have always and will always be my favorites! The bright sun, blooming nature, and the beautiful colors that come with the season create such a picturesque image. 


A few Helpful tips


  • Tip #1 Read through my Styling Guide 

The most common question I get when it come to engagement sessions is “What do I wear?” That is completely up to you, and makes a huge impact on the way you view your images. Our timeframe allows for two outfits (not mandatory- just adds some variety), and I love when couples choose to dress up for the first part of their session (romantic, heartfelt images) and go with a more casual look for the second part of their session (fun, playful images)!


Our styling guide goes into all the details of matching vs coordinating and what to avoid, but, for now, I’ll share a few simple reminders. (1) Neutrals and pastels compliment each other and photograph the best! (2) Do your best to avoid small or busy patterns as they distract your eyes and are often distorted in digital images (i.e. small checks, pinstripes). (3) Dress in a way that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and genuine to who you are. 


  • Tip #2 Get your Ring Cleaned

Your ring is a symbol of your dedication, love, and commitment to each other! During our session, I will intentionally put all the focus on your ring for a few shots to really show off it’s detail. While having your ring cleaned isn’t a necessity, I promise it will make a noticeable difference in your detail photos!


  • Tip #3 Arrive 15 minutes early

For me, running late makes me feel rushed all day. It adds an extra level of stress to any day. Traffic is unpredictable, car trouble happens without warning, and there’s just some people that shouldn’t have a drivers license. ;) None of that will matter if you’re planning to be 15 minutes early. 


  • Tip #4 Treat your self

Get professional hair and makeup, get a mani/pedi, buy a new dress. I’m not sure about you, but intentional self-love always gives me a big boost of confidence! Along with wearing what makes you feel confident and beautiful, treating yourself to one -or two or three- special treats will help you feel your best during your session. 


  • Tip #5 Think of this as a Date! 

Let this session be a fun and special occasion for you guys! Plan a dinner or ice cream date for after, and listen to your favorite music on the way. 


I hope this helps ease your mind and calm your nerves. I can’t wait to see what we create together!!!