Couples & Engagement Session Guide
Whether it be for announcing your big day or just capturing a snapshot of your daily life together, I'm here to help your remember those beautiful moments in your relationship.
Your session should be a reflection of…well you guys! And should be as natural as possible. To help better get you ready and relaxed before our session, I’ll have you fill out the questionnaire at the bottom of the page. This will help me to better gauge your expectations, ideas, and goals for our session together. Preparation and communication are the keys to a successful session, so make sure to share all your ideas and concerns with me on your questionnaire! As we prepare for your session, here is some information about what to expect:
Location Selection
Finding the perfect location is an important part of planning for the photo shoot of your dreams. I have a few favorite places in the Saratoga/Glens Falls region, and usually make a recommendation based on your personality and style, but I always welcome your location ideas. I’d love to know if there is a place that is sentimental to you both so we can discuss our options and plan the best location to suit your style and goals.
Click the button below for a map of various locations suggestions!
Don’t want to go outside? Let me come to you! In-home photos can best document your everyday life in the comfort of your own house. In-home sessions are more lifestyle/documentary in nature, where I’ll have you pick a few activities to do as a couple and I’ll be in the background capturing those moments.
Photoshoot Timing
I love to shoot when the sun is working to my advantage. Lighting is ideal for outdoor shoots during the Golden Hour, or the hour before the sun sets or just comes up. So typically summer evenings or early mornings work best, but in the spring and fall, both early mornings and evenings may be possible! If you choose to have an outdoor session mid-day, then we will typically strive for a location that has some shady areas. If you are brave enough to bear the cold, you can always book an outdoor sessions in the winter (with snow!!).
The best time typically for In-home photo sessions is mid-day, when it is the brightest and the most sun is coming through the windows.
Photographic Style
There are two types of posing styles done during photographic sessions: Traditional and Lifestyle. In a typical couples photo session, I usually incorporate both styles in, unless you suggest one more over the other (the questionnaire below will ask you!)
Traditional: Posed style where you both are looking at the camera. Think prom pictures! More classic and timeless in nature. I will help pose you both in various positions to capture the best overall look for the photo. We typically only do a few shots of these as they tend to make you feel a little awkward and stiff.
Lifestyle: Activity and prompted based style that shows everyday integrations between the couple. More candid and documentary in nature. I will give you both various prompts or activities to do throughout the photoshoot and will document the outcomes of those reactionary actions. These shots give much more natural feel and tend to capture more spontaneous and genuine moments between you two.
Clothing/Style
Finding the perfect outfit for your session may take a little bit of work, but you probably have great pieces already in your closet that could work together! Use these tips below to help formulate a plan.
Think coordinating, not matching. Incorporate colors and patterns that fit well together.
Don’t be afraid of color! Choose a few neutral colors, and then add a few bright accents to your outfits. Accessories such as scarves, necklaces, and clothing layers are great for this. I can always help in coming up with various color schemes to help you coordinate!
Wear well fitting clothing. Not too tight, and nothing baggy. If you can’t walk in those pants, don’t wear them!
Layer and add accessories with a hat, headbands, necklace, jacket, or vests. Mix it up and make it fun!
To keep the look timeless, try to avoid trendy clothing with words or logos.
Dress appropriate for the outdoor weather. If it is forecasted to be on the cooler side, bring a favorite blanket or extra jackets/sweaters.
Always feel free to text or email me your clothing options laid out before our session.
Pets
Many request to have their pets included in their photo session. It is usually a big deal as their furry friend is an important part of the day to day life. If you would like to include your pet in the photos, I’d be happy to accommodate and incorporate them into your session. It is a good idea to choose a location suited for your pet, like a park or open area. A place free of loud noises and other pets is recommended, especially for hyper or nervous pets. You can always reach out to me for location suggestions that are pet friendly. Since a lot of pets like to have the majority of attention, we usually get the must-have or difficult photographs out of the way first with them. It is also important to come prepared, make sure you have any bags, toys or treats needed for your furry friend.
Let’s Go On An Adventure!
Is there a hobby or venture that your both love to do? Maybe you both enjoy to four-wheel together or hike in the woods or skiing. I can definitely work with you to plan your shoot around a favorite activity if that is something you are interested in. I'm up for any adventure you are wanting to take. This shoot is all about you guys and your shared life together….I’m just along for the ride to document it!
Pricing/Payment
After receiving your questionnaire and determining a location, I will send you the session contract and invoice via e-mail. The session fee and signed contract are due prior to or at your session. Payment can be paid by cash, check, Venmo or a credit card (via online invoice).
After the Session
Once your session is over you'll receive your digital proof gallery within the week for you to select your favorite images for me to do full edits on. Just let me know when you’ve finished selecting your favorites and in 2-3 weeks, I will provide you with a final gallery with all your selected images fully edited. You'll be able to download the gallery and also be able to share with family and friends easily.
Prints, Wall Art and Gifts
When you invest in a session through me, you're not just gaining photos; you're acquiring pieces of art crafted with passion and expertise. Let me help you take the stress out of the printing/ordering process and be your one-stop shop so you don’t waste anytime getting your special moments displayed at home! In order to guarantee top quality and a faithful representation of your photos, I’ve calibrated my editing equipment with a professional lab so that what you see on screen is what you will get in print. By choosing to order through me, you’ll receive exceptional, gallery-worthy prints that you can proudly show off. A Print Ordering Guide will be provided along with your final gallery.
Questionnaire
If you feel like you are ready to jump on this fun photo adventure with me, please take a few minutes and fill out the questionnaire below so that I can better gauge the feel for you session and photos. Questions with an * are required, while others you can choose to fill out if applicable. I look forward to working with you both!