Planning Your Philadelphia Engagement Session Photography
Planning Your Philadelphia Engagement Session Photography
This step-by-step guide will help answer your questions and ease any anxiousness you might have about planning your engagement session. I absolutely love photographing engagement sessions and I will be sharing with you all the tips and tricks to help you plan and enjoy your photo session!
Nervous about Getting Your Engagement Photos Taken
If you are feeling a little anxious about the idea of an engagement session, don’t worry, that is completely normal! Most people haven’t had professional photos taken and worry about being awkward or not knowing what to do in front of the camera. Feeling a little uncomfortable at the beginning of your session is to be expected, but I am here for you! I will guide you through the entire process and help you feel relaxed and comfortable. I will help bring out those natural smiles. Having an engagement session is actually one of the best things you can do if you are feeling anxious about your wedding photos because this will give you practice and put you at ease for your wedding day.
Choosing Your Philadelphia Engagement Session Location
Picking a location in Philadelphia for your engagement session might feel a bit overwhelming at first, but with these simple guides, I am sure you will find just the right location for you. It’s always extra sweet when you pick a location that has special significance to you as a couple. Maybe it’s where you got engaged, the neighborhood you live in, or some of the iconic Philadelphia landmarks in the city you love. It’s also helpful to ask yourself, do I want to be in nature or the city? For city spots, there are just so many unique neighborhoods in Philadelphia from Old City to the Italian Market, from The Delaware waterfront locations to city skyline views. There are also lots of green spaces in the city such as Fairmount Park, Wissahickon Valley Park, and even rooftop spaces like Cira Green. You can also check out this blog post with some of the best Philadelphia engagement photo locations. You can keep it simple with location or you can go somewhere out of the ordinary, like this session at The Eagles Stadium. If you still aren’t sure where to go, reach out to me and I am happy to talk it through with you to find a Philadelphia engagement location that fits your style!
When to Schedule Your Engagement Session
The sooner the better! If you are considering an engagement session in the fall or spring keep in mind that these are some of the most popular times of year for photo sessions in Philadelphia and they can book up. If you are doing winter or summer there is typically more availability. There is no “right” time to book your session so it’s really what works best for you. Do you like to cozy and romantic(although often chilly) winter photos? Sometimes it can be fun to incorporate holiday festivities if that appeals to you. Or is sunshine and having your toes out more your thing? Also, consider when you want your photos from the session back and ready to use. Do you need them for save-the-date cards or holiday gifts? Make sure you give yourself lead time. Really you can book your session any time of the year, but planning ahead is always a good idea!
What to Wear for Your Engagement Session
This is a question I get asked a lot. Honestly, my answer is simple, for your engagement photos wear what makes you feel your best! If you have a favorite pair of jeans or summer dress that you just always feel amazing in – that could be the answer! Of course, you can also go shopping for a new outfit for your photo session but it is not a time to reinvent yourself. Pick something your love and reflects your personal style whether it is a cocktail dress or jeans. You don’t need to shy away from colors if that’s your thing and I think it’s nice if the couple looks coordinated with the same style. Your engagement session can also be a great time to do your trial wedding hair and makeup and give it a test run in front of a camera. If you like to get your nails done this is the perfect opportunity to indulge in something fun(especially to show off that engagement ring!). If you like heels, I would say also take along a pair of flats for walking or in case your feet get tired.
What to Bring to Your Engagement Session
Most importantly bring yourselves! Your “What to bring” list really depends, but here are some things to get you thinking about the possibilities. As I mentioned in the “what to wear” section, a pair of flats is helpful if you are wearing heels. I have had a couple bring along a special bottle of champagne and champagne glasses that were passed down from their grandparents which was really sweet. I recently had a couple who loves to rock climb and we met at one of their favorite Philadelphia rock climbing locations they brought their climbing equipment for a few photos. Those are just a few examples and things I have seen. It can be special to include unique ideas, but truthfully there is nothing you “need” to bring but yourselves.
Including your Pet in Your Engagement Session
Some couples like to include their dogs in their engagement session. This can add a fun element to the photos. If you are considering bringing your pup, it is recommended that someone else comes with your dog so you don’t have to worry about your pup and you know they are taken care of. It can work well to do the photos with your dog right in the beginning and then your designated pet sitter can take the doggie home. You typically don’t need too much time for these photos – maybe 5 or so minutes in and then we can carry on with the session with just the two of you.
Why book an Engagement Session?
Booking an engagement session before your wedding day is one of the best ways to get comfortable being in front of the camera. If you are feeling a little nervous or anxious about having your photos taken on your wedding day an engagement session can really help get rid of the nerves and allow you more ease on your wedding day. Of course, you will also get lovely couples photos that you can use for your save-the-date cards, can be given as gifts or used to decorate your home or office.
Make your Engagement Session a fun date!
Often you are all dolled up for your engagement session. Maybe you bought to new dress, or got your hair and make up done or got a specail mancure for the occasion. Don’t let that fresh hair cut go to waiste. It could be fun to extend the fun of your egagement session and plan a romanic dinner afterwards to soak in the excitement. A tasty meal or a cocktail can be a the icing on the cake for a post engagment session treat.
Want to See Some Philadelphia Engagement Sessions?
check out these lines below for more inspiration:
Northern Liberties Engagement Session
Winter Engagement Session Philadelphia
Philadelphia Museum of Art Engagement Photos
Inquire About Your Philadelphia Engagement Session
Would you like to learn more about booking Philadelphia engagement session photography? I would love to chat! Click this link to reach out.
