How to make the best of your engagement session (even if it isn’t with me!)

First, location choice:

Will you be using these images for save-the-dates? Perhaps a storytelling guest book?

I always suggest picking TWO locations. One that is more “urban”. And one that’s “nature”.  Think diversity. Urban can be just downtown Lancaster, York, Gettysburg, Hanover, Baltimore. And nature can be any state park, like codorus, the Gettysburg Battlefields, patapsco state park. Last thing to consider, What kind of venue did you pick to have your wedding at? If it’s in a barn, perhaps you want a different “look” for your engagement photos. On the other hand, if it’s at The Bond in York, or The Cork Factory in Lancaster, maybe you want to have engagement photos that aren’t going to be like the urban/industrial feel of your wedding day. OR you would rather them to be similar.

Second, Outfits:

This one is easy! For the Urban/industrial portion of your session DRESS UP! I promise it makes for AMAZING images. Yes, wear a dress and heels! And make your fiancé wear a sport coat/blazer! It truly does help take the images to the next level. On the other side of the spectrum, for the “nature/state park” portion, Dressing down, slightly, will be good. However, I ALWAYS suggest still wearing flannel button up shirts (for the both of you).

Other things to consider: 

Schedule your hair and make up trial on the same day as your engagement session. It should go without explaining why this is PERFECT.

As I suggested before, dress up, make it fun, and most of all AN EXPERIENCE. If possible pick a place that is meaningful to you two, as a couple. The place he proposed? Where you two first met? Favorite place to hang out? It ALL can be included. Even at your favorite pub there’s the possibility to create amazing images!