choosing the perfect time, location, outfit & more!
Engagement Session
planning your
to THE MAIN WEBSITE
Second, you can showcase your personalities in a more casual setting that is significant to the two of you. Engagement photos can be taken anywhere from 12 months in advance to a few weeks before the wedding.
There is a lot to think about when it comes to planning a session and I thought it would be beneficial to put together a guide that walks you through everything you need to know.
I'll cover what to wear, location ideas, time of day, pets and more!
I am so excited to be working with you and can’t wait for our time together during your engagement session! It’s normal to be a little nervous about your session. I always tell couples that I will give you full posing direction and aside from beautiful photos, my goal is for this time to feel fun and laid back.
I'm a big fan of engagement sessions for a few reasons. First, they allow you to get comfortable in front of the camera. It takes time for most couples to warm up to being photographed. Timelines can be pretty tight on weddings days and 30 minutes may be all we have for portraits - which is why I feel that wedding day portraits feel much more comfortable when couples do engagement sessions ahead of time.
Welcome
Engagement sessions can take place anywhere from immediately following the proposal to just a few weeks before the wedding.
Sessions typically last about an hour and a half. It's ideal to begin sessions about two hours before sunset. During this window of time, we can avoid harsh shadows, squinting, and patchy light. The first two hours after sunrise is also a beautiful time to shoot.
Due to my weekend wedding schedule, session availability is primarily Monday - Thursday.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TAKE PHOTOS?
Time & Light:
While most engagement sessions take place between April and November, portraits can be taken at any time of the year. Most couples choose a season based on the location where they want to shoot.
A few things to keep in mind during each season:
Seasons
If you’re planning to take your engagement photos during the winter, keep in mind that if your session takes place in the evening, we could begin shooting as early as 3:00pm. Remember to dress in layers so that in between photos you can warm up.
Winter
Even though Spring begins in March, I typically don’t begin shooting for another 6 weeks because the weather in Michigan is still pretty chilly. When scheduling dates in April-May, I try to schedule both a primary date and a backup rain date in case of bad weather.
Spring
Because of the later sunset, sessions sometimes begin as late as 6pm. It's also beneficial to start later in the day to avoid midafternoon heat. This is the perfect time of year for the beach, woods, open fields, and lakeshore towns.
Summer
Fall is one of the prettiest times of the year in Michigan! Because of the color change and cooler weather, my calendar typically books up quickly. If you have your heart set on a fall engagement session, I recommend scheduling it as soon as you book.
Fall
If your wedding is local, save the dates should be sent between 6 and 8 months before the wedding. For a destination wedding, you’ll want to send them out 8 to 10 months before the wedding.
If you’re hoping to use your engagement photos for your save the dates, I recommend scheduling your session around two months before you plan to send out your save-the-dates. Between editing turn around, designing your save-the-dates and printing, two months is generally a safe amount of time to make sure your cards are ready to send out on time.
Save-the-dates
Brewery
Coffee Shop
Winery
Sushi
DAte Night
The Highlands Nature Preserve
Provin Trails
Riley Trails
Roselle Park
Millenium Park
RUSTIC
North Beach Park
Windsnest Park
Holland State Park
BEACH
Rosa Parks Circle
Sixth Street Bridge
Ah-Nab-Awen Park
Parking Garage rooftop
URBAN
Grand Rapids Art Museum
Amway Grand
Civic Auditorium
CLASSIC & ELEGANT
I've found that it works well when couples choose a location for their session that complements the vibe of their wedding. For example if you’re planning a chic, elegant wedding, it may be fitting to take your engagement portraits among the classic architecture in downtown Grand Rapids. A forest or field may be more fitting for a couple planning a rustic affair.
The best session locations are often meaningful places to the couple; however, I'm happy to make recommendations. Whether it be your favorite brewery or winery to a college campus where you met, the options for engagement session locations are endless!
Below are my top locations to photograph at in the West Michigan area.
GRAND rapids & West michigan LOCATIONS
Locations
Most engagement sessions take place in West Michigan. However, if you have a location in mind that is outside of this area, please let me know as I'd love to venture somewhere new for your photos!
The travel fee for sessions further than 30 miles from my location in Grand Rapids is $1/mile beyond the initial 30 miles.
Engagement sessions
destination
I adore when couples choose to incorporate pets into their session! Keep in mind that bringing a pet along often means that we’ll need to choose a pet friendly location.
I recommend planning for your pet to be present during the first part of your session (15 minutes or so) and then either dropping them off or having a friend take them home.
If you’re going to bring a pet, it's always helpful to have your pet's favorite toy or treats on hand.
Pets
Generally couples pick two outfits for an engagement session: a more formal outfit and a casual outfit.
When picking outfits, keep in mind the word “complement” rather than “match.” It can also be a great idea to choose “color-families,” such as neutrals, pastels, or earth tones.
Embrace accessories without overdoing it. Necklaces, bold shoes, and earrings are a great compliment to your ensemble, but not all at once. Less truly is more.
Girls should remember to apply makeup more heavy than you would on a normal day. The day of your session is an ideal time to have your makeup trial done if you plan to have one before the wedding. Professionally done hair & makeup last longer and tend to hold up better in humidity and wind.
TIPS FOR LOOKING YOUR BEST
Outfits
A good rule of thumb: pick 3 or so colors and spread them throughout your attire. Don't be afraid to mix a few subtle patterns or textures (such as linen).
And always keep the location in mind. If we're shooting in a green field, a green dress may blend in too much with the surroundings. Bright colors with more neutral backgrounds tend to have a really nice contrast.
Above all, you'll want to feel comfortable in what you choose to wear!
Outfits
on to the next
Heels lengthen legs but if your heels aren’t comfortable for walking or we'll be in grass, bring an extra pair of shoes to slip into in between shots.
We love the way larger patterns and textures (like linen) photograph - just be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photo look a little too busy.
Softer, pastel colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin. We love bright, neon dresses, but we don’t love the neon reflection they add to your complexion.
Wardrobe Tips
for the ladies
on to the next
Statement jewelry is a great way to add color or pattern to a simple dress.
Lace and tulle look amazing in photographs.
And dresses with sleeves are a great way to help slim arms.
Depending on your location, you might want to consider a fit and flare or a flowy dress.
They look great in walking and photos with movement.
Choose an outfit you feel comfortable in, but don’t be afraid to dress up!
Accessories
for the ladies
shop my PRIME favorites
on to the next
Able
Zara
Mango
Sezane
Hill House Home
Reformation
Rachel Pally
Nuuly
Christy Dawn
Rylee & Cru
Clad & Cloth
Ivy City
Shopbop
Everlane
Rent the Runway
ASOS
Morning Lavender
J. Crew
Anthropologie
Free People
Jessakae
Petal & Pup
H&M
Vici Dolls
Virginia Dare Dress Co.
Baltic Born Clothing
Madewell
Kate + Grace Boutique
Favorite Shops
for the ladies
We think it’s so important that you look and feel your best for your photos. Investing in professional hair and makeup can go a long way towards creating photos you love for years.
Professionally done hair & makeup last longer than typical hair & makeup. They also tend to hold up better in humidity and wind.
If you go this route, we recommend staying a bit “classic”. Now probably isn’t the best time to try out that new contouring technique you saw on TikTok.
If you’re planning to do any spray tans or waxing, schedule those for a few days before the session to give your skin time to recover.
Hair & Makeup
for the ladies
on to the next
You can’t go wrong with crisp button up. Or consider layering a blazer or sweater with jeans with this look.
Bowties are always a good idea.
Be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photo look a little too busy.
Softer, pastel colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin.
Cozy sweaters layered over button ups are a great way to stay warm and stylish during the cooler months.
Wardrobe
for the gents
on to the next
Wardrobe
for the gents
on to the next
Rent the Runway
ASOS
Suit Supply
J. Crew
Zara
Leather & Cotton
Jack Threads
Frank & Oak
Nordstrom
Cuts
H&M
Urban Outfitters
Madewell
Lululemon
Everlane
Banana Republic
Mango
Reiss
Alex Mill
Untuckit
Amazon - GoodThreads
Bonobos
Abercrombie
Rag & Bone
shop my PRIME favorites
I always take a photo of the engagement ring not on your finger. If possible, try to have your engagement ring cleaned or clean it yourself.
The Ring
I will check in with you on the week of your engagement session to confirm the time & location we’re meeting and the weather. I know it takes a lot of time to get ready for your engagement session and would be disappointing to get dressed up and drive out to your session only to have it rain.
Let me know what works best for the two of you - but if the weather is not looking ideal, I highly recommend trying to find a different day to avoid getting rained on.
what to do if it rains
Inclement Weather
When it comes to posing for your engagement session, you don’t need to worry about a thing! I guide you through the entire process. I always tell couples that it's okay to feel awkward or unnatural since I prompt you in poses that you likely don't normally do. Having that in mind is typically helpful before we get started.
Throughout your session, I’ll keep an eye on your hair, makeup and outfits to make sure things stay in place. I want you to feel as relaxed as possible and enjoy your time together!
posing
A note on
The day of your engagement session is the perfect occasion for a date night (or brunch if your session is in the morning!)
The engagement session is another part of celebrating your love and heading off to dinner is a great way to end the session. Cheers!
Date Night
After your session is complete, I'll send you a small preview gallery (5 to 10 photos) within a day or two. The full collection with 100+ photos will be ready to view within 2 to 3 weeks. I will send you an online viewing gallery in which you can download all of the high resolution images to your computer. I also provide you with printing information & a print release.
Images
When to Expect Your
I know that this guide is long and hopefully it covers everything you need to prep for your engagement session! If you have yet to set up your session date & location, feel free to email me.
abbyfoxphotography@gmail.com