Engagement Sessions
One of our personal favorites are our complimentary engagement sessions! We offer these as a gift with our wedding packages*, and we absolutely love them.
They are the perfect opportunity for the four of us to build rapport as we become your personal paparazzi on your wedding journey 😉
Your wedding photography coverage is your utmost priority. After all, it’s why you first reached out to us! However, we are also obsessed with engagement session magic. These are your forever images. They celebrate the beginning of your first formal steps in your lifetime commitment to each other. For many couples they are your first professional portraits.
Some couples approach their session as a bit of a chore; and we do understand that. You already have sooo many details to consider and scheduling in another ‘wedding job’ can feel more like a duty than a desire.
There are another group of couples that thrive on capturing every detail. From first date drinks to your weekly Saturday hikes together. Every moment of your journey has been caught in thousands of iphone pix! Which makes your e-sesh portraits a really big deal!
Whichever team you fall into – we respect how you feel. We are definitely from the team “capture-every-moment”. Which is why we strive to ensure that you enjoy the experience of your first portrait session while we capture your love story in the most authentic way ♥
Do we have any tips for preparing for your session?
Oh, you know it! Keep reading to learn how to make your session phenomenal. Because you two deserve to have fun + create some outstanding memories; yes, you do!
One of the questions we receive most often? What should we wear?
It’s important to feel comfortable! It is. And, if jeans and hiking boots are your normal sartorial choices – well, they’re ours as well!
But…these are your once-in-a-lifetime photos. In other words, don’t be afraid to go formal! Island life is casual, and we love that. However, wearing something completely different then your day to day is a great choice too. After all, how many times can you rock an incredible gown to dance together on the beach? Do it! You won’t regret it, we promise.
Brides – this could be the perfect opportunity to work with your hair and MUA stylists. If possible, consider booking your trial appointments the same day as your e-sesh! Working with two (or three) of your wedding vendors all on the same day? We call that a win/win!
For more details head on over to our “What to Wear To Your Session” page (it’s a work in progress, come back soon!) Or ask to see our Complimentary Closet catalogue; we have dozens of options for you to pick from! It’s like a shopping trip; without needing your credit card 😉
Where are we shooting?
We want to choose a location that resonates with you both! What makes sense as a backdrop for you? Well, if you’re marrying on the beach – then we may suggest a forest location – so that you have a different west coast background {e.g. cold seas and tall trees} for each set of your formal portraits. Did you get engaged at Little Mountain? Maybe we return to where it all began! Most of our sessions are held outdoors, but if your happy place is at the local coffee shop, we are there for it!
Make it personal, please! Do the two of you have a favorite hobby?
Yes, it may take a little more effort, but we’ll commit if you will! Our sessions are generally 20 minutes, however, if you tell us that you’re planning something epic – we’re going to schedule some additional time for you! Are you anglers who fish local rivers? Bust out your rods and waders! Love your SUP boards? We have quiet coves to recommend! We’ve had Halloween themed sessions. Motorcycles. Ciders, coffees + hot chocolates as props. Champagne toasts? You can never go wrong with a little bubbly.
We’re as excited as you are to capture incredible moments that take extra time to create, and will result in breathtakingly, personal images celebrating your beautiful relationship.
Another common question we receive is “can we bring our pet”?
Pawsitively you can! Some pets just don’t do well in large groups, so your darling furbaby may not make it to your nuptials, and that’s okay. Not all pups love a crowd. Including them in your engagement session guarantees that they still have their moment to shine in your love story!
Will these be your first professional photos together?
Many couples tell us that they’re a little {or even a LOT} nervous about their session. That’s okay, we’ve got you! We’ll provide some gentle guidance, but this shoot is all about your shared love, tender moments and laughter. It’s the perfect time to sneak in some romance; so we hope you treat this like a date and simply enjoy!
Have some inspo photos?
Feel free to send us your thoughts; but keep in mind that unless you are duplicating the exact location, outfits and time of day – your inspiration or mood board is best for us to get a feel for what type of images you love (not to copy them exactly).
For example, if you send us playful, flirty images versus formal ones – that’s the type of information we need to plan the approach to your session!
What will you do with your engagement portraits?
Eeek, we have seen countless examples of these images being used! Some of the common choices? Save the Dates. Invites. Photos used as background for Table Numbers. Photos used for a Guest Signing Album. Background for signage at your wedding. Wedsite images. Gifts for family members. Art for your own walls!
Most of these sessions are scheduled in our off-season (October-April), if you haven’t booked your shoot for this year yet, reach out soon! And, remember we are always here to answer any questions and help create your dream images. xo
