Get ready for your NYC Engagement Session

How to get the most out of your NYC Engagement Session

You’ve said yes, the date is set, and now it’s time to get ready for your engagement session! I photograph engagements all over New York City and love to get candid, natural images of couples in real life. This session is all about YOUR unique relationship, not cookie-cutter poses or fake smiles. I promise we’ll have fun, and create some meaningful photos together. Here are some tips to make the most of your session!

1. NYC Engagement Locations

Let’s skip the cliches and go somewhere that’s meaningful to you two. After all, these photos are meant to help you remember and celebrate this moment in your relationship. Where are the important places to you? The bar in SoHo where you met, a favorite DUMBO date spot, the coffee shop you frequent in Brooklyn, or a park in Manhattan you love to go on walks together. We’ll spend about an hour and a half hitting up your favorite spots. If you live together, I LOVE starting with a few cute photos in your home. These are often my couples’ favorites!

2. What to Wear For Engagement Photos

The most important thing is to wear something comfortable that you feel great in. Bring out those pants that make your butt look amazing, the dress you love to twirl in, or the coziest sweater you own. Lots of couples like to do a more casual look in their home and switch into something a little nicer for outside. No need to be too matchy-matchy, but make sure you don’t have too many bright competing colors or patterns. An easy formula is to have either both of you in somewhat neutral colors, or just one person wearing a stronger color. Make sure to lay out what you’re going to wear the night before, so you’re stress-free the day of. If you have a ring you plan on showing off, give your nails a little extra love!

3. Pro Hair & Makeup

Professional hair and makeup make a world of a difference in photographs. Having someone else worry about your hair and makeup while you relax will take so much stress off getting ready for your session. It allows you to relax, feel beautiful, and confident! Nothing like the perfect smokey eye or tousled waves to bring out your inner model. Consider using this time as a test run with your makeup artist and use your session as a time to evaluate your wedding day look and how it photographs. If you can swing it, please consider getting your hair & makeup done for your session! I promise you it will make a world of a difference and you will look and feel absolutely glamorous. I’m right here if you need any recommendations!

4. Get the good vibes going

Grab a drink before your engagement session–I’m serious! If a little glass of wine or beer helps you loosen you up, it’ll only make the photos better! We can also stop by your favorite bar for a few photos. If drinking is not your thing, play your favorite playlist that puts you in a great mood, or cuddle with your dog. Whatever gets you into a relaxed, happy place!

5. Trust me, I’m a Photographer.

Absolutely everyone I photograph begins the session by informing me “We’re really awkward in front of cameras.” Every. Single. One. It’s totally normal, and I’m not expecting you to be models right away. (But you will be by the end of the session!) My job isn’t just to aim a camera at you–my job is to help you feel comfortable and look your best. I keep the vibe super chill, and make it feel like I’m just third-wheeling on a date with you two. I’ll give you direction and let you know what looks best in the camera, but don’t worry, I won’t make you hold awkward poses. Before long, you won’t even need me to tell you what to do anymore! That’s when the magic happens.

6. What if it rains during our engagement session?

Weather is always an unknown factor when we’re scheduling your engagement session. I use an advanced weather app that will give us precise forecasts by the hour. If it’s looking like dangerous or seriously uncomfortable weather, (torrential downpours, freezing temperatures, etc) we’ll simply reschedule. But if the forecast is predicting a slight chance of rain, I say we go for it! Something most people don’t realize about bad weather is that it makes the best photographs. Rain brings out colors and makes them deeper and richer. Overcast days give photos a beautiful, soft light. And falling snow makes every engagement session magical.

When do I get my engagement photos?

I know you’re SO excited to see your photos, and I’m just as excited to share them! As soon as I get home from our session, I’ll get to work editing a few sneak peeks for you, and you’ll have them by the next day. Keep an eye on your email! After that, I’ll set out editing the rest of the images, and you’ll have your full gallery within 3 weeks.