SCHEDULING YOUR SESSION
Connection Sessions usually last 1.5 to 2 hours and are likely to be on a weekday and ideally in the evening. The best light is two hours before sunset. However, I’m always up for shooting any time of day. Even shooting at night can be really incredible and unique!
While it’s not always possible to schedule on a weekday evening, towns tend to be less busy, parks are usually emptier, and we can schedule further in advance if you’re willing to plan for a weekday.
Scheduling the date for your connection session will vary on what you would like to use the photos for. Save the Dates are pre-invitations usually sent out at least 5 months before the wedding. Since the average edit time for engagement photos is 1-2 weeks, I recommend scheduling your session at least 5 months out from your wedding date for Save the Date purposes.
ABOUT YOUR SESSION
These sessions are about celebrating your love and life together, but also it's a chance to "unlearn" how you've previously taken photos up until now. To capture moments that tell your story, embrace individuality, showcase creativity, and illustrate the love you share.
My sessions are laid back and free flowing. The result is a collection of photos to share with friends and family. Aside from having photos of the two of you this session is when we really get to know each other. You, me, and the camera. You’ll quickly get a feel for how I use subtle direction to capture you naturally.
It’s the perfect way for us to learn a lot about each other’s personalities; it’s amazing how much I learn about how couples interact just by hanging out and taking photos.
After the session I’m always open to any feedback you may have incase we need to change anything for the wedding day portraits. Some couples prefer less kissing photos, sometimes the sessions lead people to discovering their “good side.” Whatever the case may be, it’s great practice for the wedding day photos as well . The wedding day shooting goes so much quicker and smoother if we’re all comfortable and if we know what to expect of each other.
LOCATION
Let me start by saying I can shoot anywhere and I’m often influenced by the environment in which I’m shooting. It’s usually a good idea to choose a unique location that’s reflective of you both.
Think about things that inspire you: consider places that have sentimental meaning for you or that’s fun or different about your hobbies, careers, or passions. Make it as personal as you can. The best locations are a mix of quirky and obscure.
Get together and brainstorm. If your style is more modern and minimal you may want to pick a city block with modern store fronts, a building or restaurant with flare, an art museum, or a parking garage with geometric architecture, or an industrial set- ting, just as a couple of examples.
If you’re both foodies, a colorful outdoor market or a picnic may be an option. If you’re both constantly found with your nose buried in books, a bookstore, library, or a study might be right for you.
Think about the colors and style of any potential locations and how you can compliment them with your outfits. If it helps, include your pets to help show who you are and what makes you different, so absolutely bring them along.
Keep in mind that sometimes the best locations for a shoot are in the most unusual places. These are just a few ideas to help you get started choosing a location. Our shoot doesn’t have to be deep and conceptual, but it helps if you love where we are.
And if you have a concept or a theme you want to incorporate feel free to talk to me about what you have in mind and we can work together on executing your ideas. I’m always up for scouting new and unique locations for you.
WHAT TO WEAR AND WHAT TO BRING
Like the location, your outfits should also be a reflection of you. Generally I think it's a good idea to be more relaxed for these shoots, as you'll be more formal on your wedding day.
My advice would be for men to wear dark clothing, aim for smart casual (although a beautifully cut suit is always very dashing - if you feel comfortable wearing one!). Ladies, I would suggest something flowing, with a bit of movement and neutral in colour, with natural hair and makeup. This sits perfectly in the aesthetic of the landscape and does not over power you as a couple, ensuring you are the focus of the image.
This is, however, just a suggestion, your images will be largely influenced by the landscape around us and so consider the colours and theme of your chosen location when choosing your outfit - a beautiful red dress against a dramatic coastline, or barren moorland would be just stunning!
Avoiding baggy button down shirts and be sure to bring a comfortable pair of shoes to change in and out of because we’ll probably do a bit of walking. Also, try to avoid any clothing that may show visible straps, tags, or semi-transparent clothing that could reveal undergarments.
During the session, plan on only carrying the bare minimum. If you can, leave purses, bags, cellphones, etc in your car... or I can carry them for you.
I would always also say to just be you and absolutely wear something that you feel comfortable in. Do not feel like you have to dress up if that’s not your thing – jeans and bobble hats are just as cool!
Remember - confidence is everything in photographs. What you choose to wear should be something you feel comfortable in. Something that compliments your physical features, your individuality, something you can move in, and something that makes you feel amazing.
This guide was written to give a few tips to help plan for your session, but it’s in no way a rule book. It’s just a few pointers to help give you in the right direction to make sure you’re ready for the camera. When it gets right down to it, this is your session. Make it personal, make it about you... and remember, above all else, have fun with it.
Credits:
www.louisem.co.uk