Preparing for your Engagement Session
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01. LOCATION
When thinking of settings for your engagement session, we often tell couples to start with sentimental locations that are meaningful to your relationship and telling your story. This could be as simple as walking around your neighborhood or favorite park.
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02. TIMING
Typically we shoot during the last few hours of sunlight aka golden hour (that dreamy light before sunset) but we'll figure out what works best together. As far as when to schedule your photos during the year, we suggest a season you love! Consider if you are using the images for your Save The Date cards or wedding website.
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03. CLOTHING
Choose outfits that feel like you – comfortable, confident, and coordinated (but not too matchy-matchy). Solid colors and simple patterns photograph best. Bring a second outfit if you want variety- something more casual and effortless and something a little more fashion-forward! And don't forget – wear shoes you can actually walk in.
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04. OTHER PREP
A lot of our brides opt to get their hair and make-up professionally done for their session. Our grooms prefer to get a fresh haircut a few days before. Small details like having manicured nails, cleaning your ring, and accessories are things to consider.
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05. YOUR ENGAGEMENT GALLERY
Your full engagement gallery will be returned to you via your online gallery link in 4-6 weeks. You will have access to view, download, and share all your edited images.
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06. USING YOUR PHOTOS
Engagement photos are great to share on social media, on your wedding website, save the date cards, and in guestbooks. Our team creates guestbooks in house, e-mail us at hello@haleyrichterphoto.com to begin that process.
The Most Important Tip
This is about capturing your connection and your story, not getting "perfect" poses. Laugh together, be silly, forget I'm there. The best photos happen when you're just being yourselves.
Engagement Session Inspiration
Clothing Inspiration
Other Questions
What happens if weather isn’t cooperating?
We suggest choosing a couple dates incase of poor weather. While we can make beautiful photos in most weather conditions, it’s often much easier when the weather is mild and when avoiding high winds and rain! We’ll keep an eye on the weather a few days before your shoot and make the call to reschedule if needed.
HOW FAR DO YOU TRAVEL?
Our team is based in Philadelphia. Travel fees may be required for locations outside our 1 hour radius of the city.
IS IT NORMAL TO BE NERVOUS?
It’s 100% normal to be nervous! You don’t need to be “camera people” and we’ll help direct you through your portraits to feel authentic and natural. It’s OK to feel awkward at first.
ANY OTHER TIPS?
Feel free to bring some props or personal touches- include pets if you can! Consider professional hair and makeup, a barber service, or a fresh haircut a few days before. Get your ring cleaned before your session. Lay out all your clothing a few days before.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I SHOULD AVOID?
Avoid overly casual clothing with logos, busy patterns, or are worn. Overly trendy looks may look dated. Purchasing new clothing that makes you feel confident and comfortable does make a difference for photos!
WILL I NEED TO GET A PERMIT FOR MY PHOTO LOCATION?
Some locations require special permission or a paid permit to photograph in. Typically restaurants and bars like a heads up to arrive before official hours as to not distract guests from their experience. Some locations like certain gardens or museums require a paid permit. This will be your responsibility to cover costs, but we can help point you in the right direction if needed.