Whether you just got engaged, or you’ve been together for decades, we’ll create a unique experience, true to you.
You made it! Your session is officially booked! Now comes the fun part…selecting your location, picking your outfit and letting me plan all the details in-between! No sessions are exactly alike and I want this to be an experience, truly reflective of your personality and relationship, which means thinking through some important items, outlined below! Hopefully the below gives you a good idea of what to expect!
BUT FIRST…
I want to truly understand your personalities, relationship, interests and story so I can plan the best experience possible! To do so, please take five minutes to fill out the couples session questionnaire I sent you along with this guide!
THE LOCATION
This might be the most important part! I always want you to feel 100% yourself and the location is often part of this! What type of vibes and energy are you wanting? Mountains or city? What do you enjoy doing together? Do you have certain rituals, such as going to brunch or getting coffee on the weekend at a favorite place? Maybe you have a dive bar, where you spend time together or with friends? Are there any special places in your relationship…where did you meet, have your first kiss, got engaged, or other major milestones happen? Maybe your home is where you feel most at ease? Do you both like to cook or listen to old records? Perhaps you want to write letters to one another and exchange them at the session?
All of these questions help create a special and unique experience! If you don’t have the answers, NO BIG DEAL! Once I receive your questionnaire answers, I will brainstorm and we’ll figure it out together!
One thing to note about urban or public locations, such as a restaurant or Rocky Mountain National Park, is that people will more than likely be around. The time of year and weather also play a part in this, which I can guide you through!
WHAT TO WEAR
You’ve decided on a location and now you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed! No need to worry! I ALWAYS advise wearing something you’re completely comfortable in…an outfit you feel amazing in and also yourself! If you feel self-conscious in a certain dress at home, you probably won’t feel comfortable during your session, which will impact your photos. You don’t want to worry about straightening a shirt constantly, or your feet hurting!
If we’re hiking to a destination, please wear hiking boots and bring appropriate footwear, like fall boots without a heel to change into, once at the destination! Wearing heels or wedges isn’t realistic unless we’re shooting in an urban setting.
I normally advise two outfits, one casual and one on the dressy side, but that is all dependent on the location and your personalities! Below are suggestions and guidelines…
Please wear neutrals and/or deep colors! Black, white, grey, blush, olive green, maroon, mustard yellow, navy/dusty blue and chambray always look best and are timeless! Please do not wear neon or super bright colors! We want the attention to be on you, not the outfit.
Long skirts or dresses always look best on women and add an awesome element of dimension!
You should not match! Pairing a floral dress with a solid color that's subtly in the dress would work well!
Guys should always wear close toed shoes!
Accessories can help add a pop of color to a solid color dress or blouse! Jackets, hats and accessories work well for this! They are easy to throw on and off and can really switch things up without changing outfits.
Please do not wear any clothing with graphics. It will date the photos!
Please do not wear any form of green, as green is normally predominant in outdoor terrain. An olive green in a floral pattern or plaid would work!
You can also check out my Pinterest board for outfit ideas!
THE DAY
I normally plan sessions to start about two hours prior to sunset, during “golden hour,” as that is when the lighting is best and the most flattering. Sunrise sessions are also an option, depending on the location!
Prior to your session, I recommend relaxing and doing something you both enjoy! It will put any nerves at ease!
BE PREPARED
I can’t stress this enough! With shooting in mainly in outdoor, rugged terrain, this is especially important. If we’re doing an adventure session, please make sure to get rest and good sleep day the before, along with hydrating and eating a well balanced meal. I will make sure to prepare you for the exact location, but bringing water, bug spray, snacks, sunscreen and anything else you may want is encouraged. I carry all of these things on me, but I know we all have our preferred brands! Other items you may want to bring are hairspray, a brush, lipstick or any other items to “freshen” yourself up!
For those visiting a destination at a higher altitude than where you call home, PLEASE be aware of altitude sickness and thinner air exacerbating medical conditions!
YOU DO YOU
What does this mean? I want you to be 100% comfortable and yourself. I rarely do any posed photos, unless it’s an artistic shot or one for mom and dad of you smiling and looking at the camera! The rest of our entire, you will be moving and I will be giving you actions to do! I tell every couple a few key things…
Always stay connected!!! Hold hands, touch, hug, do whatever feels natural!
Keep moving! Movement creates energy and energy creates emotion!
My goal is for you to feel like we’re hanging out rather than it being a grand photo shoot!
That’s it! Get ready to have an amazing experience! If you have ANY questions at all, feel free to reach out at anytime! I can’t wait for our time together!