PLANNING
choosing the perfect time, location, outfit & more!
Engagement Session
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THERESA ELIZABETH PHOTOGRAPHY
-theresa
Second, you can showcase your personalities in a more casual setting that is signficant to the two of you (and even include your kids...two or four legged haha!). While they’re great for save-the-dates, I've taken engagement photos anywhere from 18 months in advance to a few days before the wedding. There is not wrong time to have this session and you won't regret it.
There is a lot to think about when it comes to planning a session and since I often get asked the same things, I thought it would be the most beneficial if I put together a guide that walks you through everything you need to know.
I’ll cover what to wear, whether to bring pets & how to manage them, location ideas and more!
I'm so excited to be working with you and I can’t wait for our time together during your engagement session! It’s normal to be a little nervous about your session. I always tell my clients that I still get nervous before having our photos taken - and I do this for a living!
I'm a big fan of engagement sessions for a few reasons. First, they allow you to get comfortable in front of the camera. It takes time for most couples to warm up to being photographed and understand how the flow of how I pose. Timelines can be pretty tight on weddings days and 30 minutes may be all we have for portraits - which is why I've found that wedding day portraits turn out so much better when couples do engagement sessions ahead of time.
A NOTE ABOUT THIS GUIDE
Welcome
First of all, I freaking get it, trust me. Having your picture taken for 1-2 hours might not be in your top-10 (hell even your top 100) favorite things to do during your downtime. And at first you might feel sort of awkward being in front of the camera. But I think you’ll find that by the end of the session, it’s a lot easier than you thought, and you even had a little fun. I look forward to it because it’s a great opportunity for us all to hang out a bit before the wedding day. I don't make it too serious, I swear...just look at how much fun Katie and Aaron are having!
The Shy One
A NOTE TO
Engagement sessions can take place anywhere from immediately following a proposal to just a few days before the wedding. I've found that there isn’t a “good” or “bad” time to take your photos. I normally try to plan sessions based on a a few factors: if you have a particular “look” you are going for (spring flowers for example), when you are in town and/or need to fly me to your city (yes I do destination engagements for my out of town clients, there are just a few money logistics involved) or based on your work schedules.
Sessions are always scheduled on weekdays because the locations are way less crowded and my weekends are reserved strictly for weddings and family time. Weekend session can be arranged but it is $350 extra. These session typically last about 1-2 hours and I love to begin sessions as close to two hours before sunset as we can. We prefer to shoot when the sun is lower in the sky to avoid harsh shadows and bright sun patches. The first two hours after sunrise is also an ideal time to shoot but who wants to do hair and makeup at the ass crack of dawn? If you are a morning person great! If not, I got you.
I schedule sessions during what I believe will be the best light of the day - which means that it’s super important to be on time. If you’re late to an evening session, we could run out of light before we’ve finished shooting and if your session takes place in the morning, the sun gets more harsh as it rises. Re-schedules aren't a thing if we run out of time because you are late.
Is there a certain time frame to schedule?
TIME & LIGHT
While I shoot most engagement sessions between March and late November, sessions can take place all year. Most of our couples choose a season based on the location where they want to shoot.
A few things to keep in mind during each season:
Seasons
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Winter
hot cocoa, cozy settings, naked trees, layering pieces or maybe a t-shirt because...Louisiana ha!
If you’re planning to take your engagement photos during the winter, keep in mind that if your session takes place in the evening, we could begin shooting as early as 2:30pm to catch the sunset. We recommend dressing in layers so weather it is cold or hot or chilly you have options. Make sure you bring a little extra makeup and tissues in case your nose begins running. Also, because it is Louisiana always bring the two must have sprays: hair and mosquito. Like for instance, this couples took their photos in February...it was in the low 70's.
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Even though Spring begins in March, we pretty much don't have a freaking clue as to what the weather will be like. I mean that kind of goes for all the season here but we do our best to look at weather patterns and hope it is around the same as the years prior. When we schedule spring dates, we typically schedule both a primary date and a backup rain date because March-May is a crapshoot when it comes to rain.
fresh flowers, sunny days, still mosquitos
Spring
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In spite of the heat, I'm a big YASSS for summer sessions! Because of the later sunset, sessions sometimes begin as late as 6pm, which means you only need to take a half of day off of work. If you’re taking your engagement photos during the summer, we recommend bringing extra makeup, the hair and mosquito spray, a fan and a few towels to make sure you stay fresh throughout your session. I always try for one outdoor location and then one fun place indoors (bar, bowling alley, pizza shop, even your home) for fun candid shots.
less crowded locations, longer days and light fabrics
Summer
Fall
golden skies, cooler temps, sweaters and boots...even if we force it
Fall is one of the most sought after scheduling seasons. It is best to schedule in August if you want a fall date because they get snagged pretty quickly. Weekends are pretty much impossible in the fall too. Wedding season and outdoor season in general makes the weekends miserable...especially if you don't like feeling like people are watching you. That first sweep of brisk air has everyone in New Orleans outside on the weekends. For instance, this shot would have been impossible Fri-Sun because the crowds get intense in the French Quarter.
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If your wedding is local, save the dates should be sent between 6 and 8 months before the wedding. For a destination wedding, you’ll want to send them out 8 to 10 months before the wedding.
If you’re hoping to use your engagement photos for your save the dates, we recommend scheduling your session at least two months before you plan to send out your save-the-dates. Between inclement weather, editing, designing your save-the-dates and printing, two months is generally a safe amount of time to make sure your images and cards are ready to pop in the mail.
Save-the-dates
Locations
new orleans/surrounding area ENGAGEMENT LOCATIONS
I love when couples choose a location for their session that complements their wedding and actually has meaning for them. For example if you’re planning a chic, elegant wedding, it may be fitting to take your engagement portraits among the classic architecture in the French Quarter or renting an amazing historic mansion in the Garden District while a local park or flower-filled field may be more fitting for a couple planning a more rustic or outdoor affair. The best session locations are often meaningful places to the you; however, I'm also happy to make recommendations. Let me know if any of the following locations speak to you! One thing to keep in mind too...some of these locations charge a fee to shoot there...we can discuss that in more depth once we get an idea of some locations you like.
Melrose Mansion (fee)
Pontchartrain Hotel
Elms Mansion (fee)
Longue Vue House/Gardens (fee)
Rent an amazing Air BNB home
Sully Mansion (fee)
Marche (fee)
Il Mercato (fee)
CLASSIC & ELEGANT
Magazine Street
French Quarter (fee for Jackson Square)
Canal Street Car Line
Bevolo Lights (fee)
Cemetery (fee)
Race & Religious
historical new orleans
South Market District
Ace Hotel
Eliza Jane Hotel
Contemporary Arts Center
Catahoula Hotel
Messinas at the Terminal
URBAN / retro / unique
Long Beach MS (travel fee but worth it)
Fontainebleau State Park
Grand Isle (travel fee but worth it)
The Riverwalk
Armstrong Park
BEACH / water
New Orleans City Park (fee)
Audubon Park
Crescent Park
Barataria Preserve
The Fly
Longue Vue (best of both worlds)
green spaces
Cooking class
Bar/Restaurant
Bowling
Mini Golf
Paddle Boat in City Park
In home session
Amusement Park/Fair
Festivals/Concerts
ADVENTURE
The above locations are all beautiful, but we also love exploring meaningful locations with our couples! I also have so many locations that we can discuss...there just is not enough room!
Destination Sessions
While we take most of our engagement sessions in the New Orleans area,
I'm totally open to having your session anywhere! The sky is the limit seriously and doesn't necessarily mean just engagements...I will travel for bridal or newlywed sessions. If you have a location in mind that is significant to the two of you and travel fees are in your budget let me know! If real fall, blue water or desert sand is what you are looking for let's see what we can do to get you a once in a lifetime session.
Travel fees will apply
Fur babies are just as much a part of your family as anyone, so it's important to include them! Keep in mind that bringing a pet along often means that we’ll need to choose a pet friendly location, which is so widespread in New Orleans that it won't be a problem at all.
I recommend planning for your pet to be at the first part of your session and then either dropping them off or having a friend/family member take them home. I won’t use the pet in every single photo so it’s also nice to have a friend available to hold him or her in between shots.
If you’re going to bring a pet, I recommend exercising your pet before the session and bringing your pets favorite toy or treats! Depending on your pet’s fur type, it might also be a good idea to groom them before the shoot and don't forget a lint roller and poop bags!
Pets
When picking outfits, the most important thing is to keep your outfits true to your normal style. Don't try to go overboard and dress in a way you normally wouldn't. Odds are you will feel uncomforable and it will show. Also, it's best not to try any new hairstyles or faux tans right before your session. If you want to spray tan do it at least a week before the session. Also, keep in mind the word “complement” rather than “match.” For example, if one of you is wearing a blue and pink pastel plaid shirt, the other may want to choose a long, soft blue dress. It can also be a great idea to choose “color-families,” such as pastels or jewel tones then mix them with neutral colors.
Generally couples pick two outfits for an engagement session: a more formal outfit and a casual outfit. I recommend saving your favorite outfit for later in the session, when couples usually feel more comfortable in front of the camera. And don’t forget to bring a few accesorries! Statement jewelry, cute shoes, hats, sunglasses and classic watches are great ways to add detail to outfits. Leave the apple watch at home and no ponytails on the wrists!
TIPS FOR LOOKING YOUR BEST
Outfits
MANICURE
HAIR & MAKEUP
WHERE TO SHOP
ACCESSORIES
Outfits
find it fast
First off wear things that are true to you! That can be pants, shorts, suit, dress whatever! It is the most important that you do not try to dress in a manner that is totally not your nor because you will feel uncomfortable. Heels lengthen legs but if your heels aren’t comfortable for walking, bring an extra pair of shoes to slip into in between shots, we will be walking a bit.
I love the way larger patterns photograph - just be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photo look a little too busy and take the focus off of your gorgeous self.
Softer, pastel colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin. I love bright, neon dresses, but we don’t love the neon reflection they add to your complexion.
Wardrobe Tips
for the ladies
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Statement jewelry is a great way to add color or pattern to a simple dress.
Lace and tulle look amazing in photographs.
And dresses with lace sleeves are a great way to help slim arms.
Depending on your location, you might want to consider a fit and flare or a flowy dress!
They look great in walking and photos with movement.
Choose an outfit you feel comfortable in, but don’t be afraid to dress up!
Accessories
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
find it fast
Rent the Runway
ASOS
Morning Lavender
J. Crew
Anthropologie
Free People
Candy Apple
Hemline
ModCloth
Zara
She In
Favorite Shops
Lulu's
H&M
Lucy Rose
Vici Dolls
Zoveaux
Urban Outfitters
Nasty Gal
Mango
Monomin
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
find it fast
Engagement sessions are the perfect time for a hair and makeup trial! Professionally done hair & makeup last longer than typical hair & makeup. They also tend to hold up better for humitiy and wind.
It is hella important that you look and feel your best for your engagement photos - and if you’re planning to do a hair & makeup trial anyways, the engagement session is a great time to test how your hair & makeup look on camera.
Hair & Makeup
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
find it fast
There will probably be times during your session when we’re shooting your hands holding or the engagement ring on your hand - which means it’s a good idea to clean up your nails before your session (this applies to the guys too!).
In keeping with the color rules, please keep your nail color as close to neutral as possible...softer hued colors are great but try not to use neon colors or crazy designs.
Manicure
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
find it fast
You can’t go wrong with a suit and tie, if that is your thing. Consider pulling out that suit you had to wear last time you were a groomsmen!
Layer with a blazer and a fun tie - you can even wear jeans with this look if you are a more casual gent.
Bowties and fun socks are always a good idea.
Be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photo look a little too busy.
Softer, pastel colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin.
Cozy sweaters layered over button ups are a great way to stay warm and stylish during the cooler months.
Wardrobe
WHERE TO SHOP
Outfits
for the gents
find it fast
Rent the Runway
ASOS
Suit Supply
J. Crew
Zara
Leather & Cotton
Tuxedos to Geaux
Banana Republic
Nordstrom
H&M
Urban Outfitters
Dillards
Jeff's Haberdashery
Untuck It
Perlis
Macy's
Old Navy
Target
Fellow
John's Tuxedo
Wardrobe
WHERE TO SHOP
Outfits
for the gents
Inclement Weather
what to do if it rains
It’s typical for us to get rained out at least once because Louisiana weather is so unpredictable. I'll check in the week of your engagement session to confirm the time & location we’re meeting and the weather. I know it takes a lot of time to get ready for engagement session and it’s the worst to get dressed up and drive out to your session only to have it rain.
Let us know what works best for the two of you - but if the weather looks like it won’t be great the morning of, we typically try to make the call before your hair/makeup appointments. I also love adventure so if you are down to shoot even with a 80% chance of rain I'm all for it! New Orleans has so many covered sidewalks and indoor bars/restaurants that I know we could make it work . If not, we can absolutely set up a reschedule date. Because New Orleans is crazy ... sometimes it rains with 10% chance and doesn't rain with 80% chance....looking at the hourly and radar the morning of is the best thing to do. You could even be like these cuties and just say screw it let's have fun at home with pizza. If you know me at all, a good in home session is right up my alley. I will even come and stage your home so it photographs it's best!
I always take a photo of your ring during your engagement session - so it’s a good idea to have it cleaned or clean it yourself before your shoot! To clean at home, soak your ring in warm water with dishwashing soap for 20 to 40 minutes. Then gently brush the stone with a soft toothbrush, rinse and repeat if needed. Or use those bling wipes I gave you in your welcome gift! You can even bring it the day of and clean it on location!
Ring Cleaning
Props
champagne is always a good idea
If you’re planning to bring props to your engagement session, we recommend including them only if they’re meaningful to you. Shots of drinking coffee at a local coffee shop would be cute if that’s where you met; however, trying to fly a kite together or having a picnic when it’s not a part of your relationship may come off as confusing.
When it comes to posing for your engagement session, you don’t need to worry about a thing! I guide you through the entire process beginning with “poses” that are super easy and natural. If I tell you to do something that feels a little funny, it’s because I know it’s going to make the two of you laugh - and that’s the photo you are actually going to LOVE! I am a big prompter so we are just going to talk a little, dance a lot and just have fun. It's kind of like I'm the third wheel on your everyday date night.
Throughout your session, I keep an eye on your hair, makeup and outfits to make sure things stay in place. I want you to feel as relaxed as possible and enjoy your time together!
"What do I do with my hands"?
"What do I do with my hands"?
POSING
Date Night
If you’re anything like my husband and I, you probably don’t get dressed up all that often. Which means that the day of your engagement session is the perfect occasion for a date night
(or brunch if your session is in the morning!)
The engagement session is another part of celebrating your love and heading off to dinner is a great way to end the session! I also really hope you are not surprised in the least bit that this couple is on Bourbon eating pizza and chances are you also love pizza because my people love pizza and champagne...sometimes together haha!
As soon as possible after your session is complete, I will ship your film off (if applicable) to my lab in Utah. It normally takes them about 10 business days to send the digital files back to me - and then it takes us about a week to edit your digital images. Unless I have a holiday closure, you can expect to receive your engagement photos between 2 and 4 weeks after your session. Don't worry though, I will be sure to give you a teaser to hold you over because I know how anxious of a feeling it is!
