New England Engagement Photos Guide
It’s engagement season!!! At least it is while I am writing this blog, and if you are one of those newly engaged couples you may be thinking “NOW WHAT”. Pick a date is the first step, then a venue, and then a photographer (you can go in any order you would like but this is the norm). Following booking the photographer for your big day, it is often followed by doing an engagement session. I put together this New England engagement photos guide as a way to help couples by easing the process with some tips.
The Importance of an Engagement Session
Engagement sessions are so much fun! Kind of the “pep rally” for wedding day photos, they are a wonderful way to prepare and gain confidence in front of the camera. Including engagement sessions in all of my wedding packages is very important to me because it gives me the chance to connect with each couple before their big day. This is another benefit to doing an engagement session as for many couples, it is their first time in front of a camera for professional photos. I know that can feel a bit intimidating at first, but the engagement session lets us work through those nerves so that they don’t even exist by the wedding day. I’ve found that by the end of the engagement session, my couples are not only more comfortable with me, but they’re also more confident in front of the camera.
Choosing Your Location
Now, picking a location isn’t as hard as picking a location for your reception, but it is one of the big decisions couples make. When guiding a couple I always suggest picking a place that has meaning to your relationship. If you love coffee maybe go to a coffee shop and have the barista/baristo write the date on a coffee cup. If you love walks on the beach having a sunset session at your favorite beach can be fun. If you like relaxing at home an intimate at-home session may be perfect. If you don’t have a place in mind you can carry the theme of your wedding into your engagement session. If you are having a rustic wedding at a farm, a field with rustic buildings is a great option. If you are having a classic wedding at a ballroom you can have it in an urban setting.
Top New England Locations to Consider:
- Harkness Memorial State Park
- Hammonassett State Beach
- Yale University
- Downtown Hartford
- Downtown Boston
- Topsmead State Forest
- Edgerton Park
- Waveny Park
Planning for the Seasons
The weather in New England is always changing, so here are some tips for the four seasons so you are prepared:
Winter
If you’re planning to take your engagement photos during the winter, keep in mind that if your session takes place in the evening, you should begin shooting as early as 2:30 pm to catch the sunset. I recommend dressing in layers so that in between photos you can warm up. Make sure you bring a little extra makeup and tissues in case your nose begins running.
Spring
Even though Spring begins in March, I typically suggest waiting till mid-April because the weather in New England is still pretty chilly. When you schedule spring dates, I highly suggest you schedule both a primary date and a backup rain date.
Summer
In spite of the heat, I am a big fan of summer sessions! Because of the later sunset, sessions sometimes begin as late as 6 pm. If you’re taking your engagement photos during the summer, I recommend bringing extra makeup and a few towels to make sure you stay fresh throughout your session.
Fall
Fall is one of the prettiest times of the year on the East Coast and because of the perfect weather, your photographer’s schedule typically books up quickly! If you have your heart set on a fall engagement session, I recommend scheduling it as soon as you book! Also, try to find a weekday that works for you because weekends are typically busy with weddings.
| Season | Timing Tip | Preparation Essential |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | Start by 2:30 pm | Dress in layers, bring tissues |
| Spring | Wait until mid-April | Schedule a backup rain date |
| Summer | Start as late as 6 pm | Bring towels and extra makeup |
| Fall | Book as soon as possible | Choose a weekday |
What to Wear
When picking outfits I recommend keeping in mind the word “complement” rather than “match.” For example, if the groom-to-be is wearing a blue and pink pastel plaid shirt, the bride-to-be may want to choose a long, soft blue dress. It can also be a great idea to choose “color-families,” such as pastels or jewel tones. Generally, couples pick two outfits for an engagement session: a more formal outfit and a casual outfit.
Incorporating Pets
Your pet is a big part of your family, which is why it is fun when couples choose to incorporate pets into their session. Keep in mind that bringing a pet along often means that you’ll need to choose a pet-friendly location. I recommend planning for your pet to be at the first part of your session and then either dropping them off or having a friend take them home. If you’re going to bring a pet, I recommend exercising your pet before the session and bringing your pet’s favorite toy or treats! Sidenote: Make sure you ask your photographer if he or she has any type of pet allergy.