How long is an engagement session?
2 hours! I have found that is the longest that most couples can handle being in front of the camera, and it is just the right amount of time to allow for a scene and clothing change. I do have an Engagement “Quickie” option that is just 1 hour and has a few limitations. See the Engagement Pricing Page for more info.
What should I wear? How many outfits can I have?
The most important thing is that you are comfortable and feel like “you”. Maybe just a slightly nicer version of what you would actually wear on a hike or when having a casual date night. I recommend planning two outfits, one casual “every day” look and one that’s a bit dressier. But again, engagement photos are meant to capture who you really are together, so don’t overthink clothes too much. When in doubt, stick with neutrals – they always photograph great and keep the focus on your expressions. But bold colors and patterns are so fun and can really make you stand out. Mostly, just be in the same color world and vibe together. I love flannels and a nice blanket can be a great touch. And with that, adding a jacket or a hat to an outfit changes things up nicely. I think long, flowy dresses are so cool up in the mountains, especially if we do a mountain pass where it’s breezy.
How do we choose a location?
If you already have somewhere special to you, that is awesome! Most of the time, you just tell me what kind of setting you want, and I’ll give you some location ideas. I have permits for most Open Spaces that require them, and I will do the permit research for a new location. I also have a permit for the Denver Botanic and Chatfield Gardens, so there’s no additional charge for you! If you choose a location that requires a paid permit, like Wings Over the Rockies or Roxborough State Park, you will be responsible for covering that fee.
How far can we go?
We can go pretty much anywhere, up to 2-hours drive from Denver is included. If you would like to go further than that, the travel fee for over 2 hours, under 5 hours from Denver, is $700. This charge covers the additional drive time and cost, as well as accommodations for the night. (For the “Quickie” session, see package restrictions.)
What else should I bring?
It can be fun to bring beers/wine/champagne/coffee – whatever your vibe is to take the edge off or to just give you a little cheers moment. If you like the pics of spraying a champagne bottle, make sure to bring a cheap bottle you don’t mind wasting about 1/2 of!
Bring water and snacks for the little drives in between locations – or just when you need it! Never underestimate how exhausting modeling can be.
How else can we prepare?
Come ready to have fun! I like to keep things moving and natural and I want more than anything to get to know who you are together, so I want you to be as genuine as possible. I know that is easier said than done with a camera in your face, but you’ll warm up – you’ll see.
Do I need a shot list? Can I share a board or inspiration photos?
First of all, know that I’ve got you! You can literally just show up in a great mood and I’ll handle the rest. That said, if you have any inspiration photos or notes for me, I love it! Definitely let me know if you have a vision for save-the-date photos or any key shots you are hoping for. I also love hearing what you would like to avoid or are feeling self-conscious about. This is a collaboration and the ultimate goal is to get you those photos that feel like you and that show your unique love. You don’t need to think about how to pose or what to do with your hands – I will direct and will chime in if I feel like you do anything that you won’t love in a photo. I’ll never leave you hanging. Hopefully, you’ll be able to relax, be playful and flirty, and snuggle like you usually do.
