I’ve always loved engagement sessions with my couples, but lately they’ve become something more. Something I look forward to almost as much as the wedding day. I love it because I get to explore Los Angeles and surrounding areas, I am able to get super creative, and get to know my clients a bit more. Really though, Emily Photo engagement sessions aren’t about me, I swear. They are about the bride and groom-to-be of course!
I think every couple, whether you have to pay for one or not, should have an engagement session. I think it’s so important that I include it in all of my wedding packages. Think about it, I spend hours and hours (ok not THAT many) editing and blogging engagement sessions, but don’t charge extra because they make the photos better on the wedding day. Here’s why…
My engagement sessions usually last anywhere from 2-4 hours. Usually the couple is ready to be done before me because I could probably have it last all day. During this time, there is so much that helps me photograph the couple better.
First thing, they get used to having hundreds of shots taken of them. For most people, that is a really hard thing. I need my clients to be camera aware, yet natural and happy. By the end of an engagement shoot, I guarantee this will happen.
Another thing that happens is they get used to me, the way I shoot, the way I direct, and learn more about me in general. This is key because clients instill a lot of trust in me to shoot their wedding day. The better they know me and my work the more they trust.
Lastly, I get to see what photos the bride and groom like and which angles or poses they might not love. I like to meet with the clients after the shoot to go over our favorites. This way I can learn more about their style and they get more familiar with mine.
I am so excited for some of my 2010 engagement sessions! I am setting up some styled, funky shoots as we speak.
I am often asked about places I recommend for engagement shoots in the Los Angeles area, so here are some of my favorites and some I have yet to try…
Cerritos Library, The Getty, Downtown LA, alley ways in Santa Monica, Venice Beach near the strand, the graffiti wall at Venice Beach, coffee shops, Ikea, Dockweiler Beach, any park for a picnic setting, Bodega Wine Bar in Santa Monica, H&M, Dodger or Angels Stadium, and I will be adding lots more to my list.
Where are you going to have yours???
by Emily
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