As these two lovebirds patiently await their upcoming destination wedding down in the Florida Keys, we headed up for a visit to their home in North Carolina. In my whole career, this was one of my favorite moments with a client thus far [they booked my flights for me, picked me up at the airport, made me breakfast, took me out to lunch where we held a mini session downtown by the marina, showed me around town where they met, first said ‘I love you’, grabbed coffee, took more photos, then held our ‘official’ session at the park…where he proposed!, brought me out for a perfect taco night, hosted me that night at their place, and brought me back to the airport the next day. WHEW! They. Are. Awesome.]
Traveling to our couples for their engagement photos is something we’re now offering, and after spending time with these two in their element, the place they met, fell in love, and LIVE, I see so many reasons why I knew this would be worth it. Whether we hold the session back where you live, or here where you’re getting married, here are our
BEST 5 REASONS TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF AN ENGAGEMENT PHOTO SHOOT:
1] RAPPORT. I say it over and over again, and if you’re listening, you’ll start to hear it ring true. Your wedding is so so special. One of the most intimate days you’ll ever get. You plan your day, full of celebrations with your closest friends and family. And guess who else will be right there by your side all day? ME! It’s such an honor! And what better way to break the ice and get to know each other, so the comfortability is there on your wedding day? I learn your humor, your mood + vibe, whether or not you’ll want me to joke and laugh with you and your VIP’s or if you’d rather me act like a fly on the wall! [Either way is fine with me:]
2] THE PHOTOS. Maybe this should be first, since it’s kind of the whole point. But, whether or not you like to be in front of the camera, holding an engagement session will get you some beautiful photos to hang in your home - and yes, you’ll have some soon from the wedding and I KNOW your dress is IT, but this will give you a little variety in photos of you NOT in your wedding day attire. You’ll also have some incredible and personal images to use on your Save-the-Date cards or in an album which could turn into your guest book at your wedding!
3] PRACTICE IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA. One of you despises having their picture taken. I hear it all the time as if it’s some uncommon thing, but it’s like 60% of you! At least one of you hates being in front of the camera, maybe both. So let the awkwardness ensue BEFORE the big day. Let’s get it out of your system, and put your mind at ease, because I’m good at my job! Yes, I know how to work a camera, how to compose a photograph, all about lighting etc….but a big factor is YOUR comfortability and HOW I direct you during the session. When it’s done right, there are no fake smiles or real posey posey stances, just you two showing some affection and playfulness - your real joy in being around each other - THAT is what it’s all about and is what I am stoked to capture.
4] SUPPORT. Through all the emailing and phone calls during the wedding planning, you know I have your back professionally. I’m timely, I care about quality. I also care about YOU! These sessions sometimes start off with a cup of coffee, then we may drive together to a fun remote location, maybe some hiking is involved. Either way, it’s time I get to spend getting to know you, your individual stories, and what your foundation is as a couple. I’m someone who may be tailing you throughout your life….documenting the big moments that deserve perfect photos - your wedding, honeymoon, your first family picture with your puppies, your first pregnancy, alllllll the firsts for that baby, having anniversaries and vow renewals, your kids growing up, their senior photos, a last session in your first home where you started your family, becoming grandparents…..life is good and will be good for you. So just as your bridal party will always have your marriage’s back, so will I, personally.
5] IT’S FREE! Yes, IT’S FREE! Our engagement sessions come FREE with our wedding packages. Even if you haven’t made up your mind on who will be doing your wedding-day photos, you can hire us to take your engagement photos. Then once you love them so much and you want us to do your wedding as well, we’ll CREDIT you that money to your wedding-day package!
[Should I have led with that?!]. Maybe. Either way, let’s start photographing your love!
