A while ago, I wrote a post about why you should consider having an engagement session (which you can view here).  Today, I would like to share a few of the most frequently asked questions about e-sessions so that we can help you have the best experience possible.

Scheduling:

Scheduling an e-session is a little different for everybody, depending on how far out their wedding is.  If you have 9-12 months before your wedding, I usually recommend scheduling your session for a season that is different from the season of your wedding.  For example, if you are getting married in the fall, a spring engagement session will give you some nice variety in your images.  Also consider what you would like to use the images for.  If you would like to create save-the-dates with your engagement photos, you will want to schedule your e-session so that you have enough time to get the photos back and create and mail the save-the-dates.

As for time of day, early morning and late afternoon are always best for photography.  When the sun is closer to the horizon, light is naturally softer and more golden – perfect for photography.

Location:

We love to work with our couples to choose  a location that is meaningful to them.  Are there places that you love to go, things that you love to do?  Your engagement session is a great way to capture that, whether it is on the water, Downtown Chicago, or in a natural location.  Get creative – where did you guys meet?  Where was your first date?  What do you love to do together?  Also think about how you will display the artwork from your engagement

Finally, if you do get creative with your location, be aware that some areas require permits and possibly a small fee to shoot there.  We will need to find this out ahead of time to ensure that your shoot goes smoothly. session.  Consider creating a custom guest sign-in book for your wedding, or custom-printed fine art canvases for your walls, or prints for your parents.  How will your artwork fit into your home environment?

Themes, Pets, etc:

Engagement sessions  are a great time to get creative.  Have you been desperately trying to figure out how to incorporate your puppy into your wedding, but there’s just no way?  Do you two just love fishing/biking/funny hats?  Think about incorporating them into your e-session for some fun photos.

Clothing:

First and foremost, wear something that makes you feel GOOD.  The better you FEEL, the better you will LOOK.

Hair and Make-Up:

And Ladies – since you’re all dressed up, drop a hint that this would be a great night to plan a romantic date.  You’ll totally be in the mood for a romantic dinner afterwards, trust me. ;)Make your engagement session an occasion!  Getting your hair and makeup done will make you feel your best and is also a great way to test out your look before your wedding day.

Jewelry:

If you love accessories, definitely wear them!  Don’t go overboard, though, and avoid anything super-shiny.

Purses, etc: 

You probably won’t need your purse during our session.  I definitely wouldn’t want you to forget it if you set it down, or to walk off with it if I carry it for you.  (I totally don’t mind, but I am not in the purse-snatching business! ha!)  So feel free to leave it at home, and if you have any small items I can carry them in my camera bag.

Have I forgotten anything?  What questions do you have about your engagement session?  Let me know, I would love to hear them!

Ann Oleinik is a Chicago Wedding Photographer who serves Chicago, Illinois, Wisconsin, and beyond.  Check us out on our website or facebook, and Contact us to learn more about having us shoot your event.