Planning the Perfect Engagement Session with your Partner and Photographer, by Peyton Olivia Photography
Behind every one of my photographs there is a story to be told; a beautiful story about love, confidence, and self-acceptance. I can tell your story too and I promise to tell your story as beautifully and truthfully as I can.
-Peyton Olivia
It’s time for engagement season! Did you know most people become engaged during the cold, winter months; usually around Christmas to late February. This means most people are looking to book that perfect engagement session now.
When planning an engagement session, think about what’s important to you and your partner.
A few things to discuss and think about:
Location: do you feel most comfortable in the city? In a field? Outside hiking? In your own home? Within a studio? At your favorite restaurant, cafe, or shop?
Attire: what makes you feel like YOU? Try not to be someone you aren’t. An engagement session should express the love between you and your partner, for exactly who you are. That’s why you feel in love right?
Props: do you have an item that represents the two of you? Maybe it’s a blanket you cuddle with together every night. Or maybe it’s a stuffed animal you gave to your partner as a “pet” gift. Or maybe it’s a piece of jewelry your partner gifted to you on your anniversary. Think about this. Having a sentimental object in your engagement session is always a plus. Note: do not forget your engagement ring!
Confidence: Before booking an engagement session, review your level of confidence. You are engaged to your partner, how amazing is that?! However, if you are feeling low in confidence, that may show in your photos. An engagement session should show off your happiness, love, and comfort with you and your partner. If you are camera shy, try becoming a little more comfortable in front of the camera before your session. This will help ease your nerves and give you a little boost of confidence.
Posing: I know… not everyone is a model. That’s totally okay. However, if you have never posed for a photo before, try doing a little research. Think about what angels you look you best and note it. Think about what side of your face you like better (some people really have a preference, like me for example). Pose in front of the mirror with your partner and have fun! You are asking them to marry you so you might as well feel totally comfortable with them through anything…even when posing in front of the mirror together.
Season: Are you and your partner cold blooded or warm blooded (haha). The worst thing you could do is book an engagement session during mid summer if you hate the hot weather. The winter is a harsh season too. If you’re not a fan of cold feet and numb fingers, I would not suggest booking an outdoor December engagement session.
Sensitivity: a lot of people have sensitive skin. Whether it relates to the heat, the cold, embarrassment, or anxiety, I get it! I have all of the above. It’s good to be aware of this an let your photographer know. With information like this, your photographer can help you find the perfect spot and season to book your engagement session. They will also be able to keep your nerves down and make you feel as comfortable as possible.
Products: What do you desire from an engagement session? Do you need prints, Save The Dates, social media files, digital photos with a print release? Once you’ve determined what you expect and desire from your engagement session, make sure you communicate this with your photographer. Photographers can’t read minds, haha.
Like a garden, planning a future involves all the love, patience, and care you possibly have. Gardens usually start small and, with a little love, will continue to grow, change, and expand over the years. Peyton Olivia Photography will document your growth at every stage of your journey.
Water your garden well enough and your roots will grow together and become inseparable. Peyton Olivia will capture those moments of growth during your engagement session and will show you the true love you have created with your partner.
So what do you say? Let’s water these flowers and watch them grow.
Book your engagement session with Peyton Olivia today!
Clara & Rachel
by Peyton Olivia Photography
