engagement session

Read this and you will feel better about your upcoming Engagement Session:)

Here's some info to help you get a better idea and plan for you Engagement Session with me!

Duration: 1-1.5 hr(s) shoot

Location: 2-3 locations, in close proximity (1-5 milesish).

Somewhere that helps tell the story of you as a couple.

Somewhere significant to you (engagement location, location where you met, places you go consistently on the weekends, downtown, parks,etc)

Urban-chic-classy, romantic, Anthropologie or JCrew inspired, fresh, classic.

What do you guys do together? Where do you guys eat together? Where do you guys spend time together? Where do you guys enjoy going on the weekends together?

Timeline: 25-30 edits will be completed for you on a CD within 2-3 weeks of the shoot. You will also receive online presence to share with your family and friends with an online gallery, album on Chantel Marie Photography facebook fan page, and a blog feature.

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What to wear for your engagement session?

Here are a few tips/guidelines to reference:)...

Keep in mind...

Your body type. I'm sure you know what you feel you look the best in and what you'd rather not caught be wearing! (I know I sure do....it all has to do with the color red, yep, not a single ounce in my wardrobe, see ya later!) Going along with that, trust yourself in what you feel great in. You know your body type, you know what flatters you, this shoot is for you to pick those 2-3 winners and flaunt it!

Coordinate colors. Ok, we're not talking matching striped polos, and I know you know what I mean! The key word is 'coordinate', not 'match'. Look for colors in the same type of blend and color family. Personally, I love the way patterns, stripes, florals, and thoughtfully placed accessories enhance the photos.

Coordinate styles. Guys, match the overall “feel” of your girl’s outfit. If she’s wearing a dress, make yourself look a little nicer, throw on a blazer with your jeans or add a collared shirt. If she’s workin' some jeans and great shoes, jazz up your gear with some equally great kicks and casually-classy top.
Don't hold back. Be yourself, but don't rule out a bold color or pattern. If it's you and you like it, rock it out and make it happen.

Girls: Fun summer dresses are always a good go-to. Classic, chic, and fun.

Guys: Nice, but not too nice shirt and fitted jeans are a solid choice.

Fitted clothing. Anything hanging too loose or baggy will make you look bigger than you are and be a hot mess. This is tricky for girls, because I am all for the oversized tees and leggings, so just be aware of the looseness of the piece and maybe add a belt or fitted jacket to maintain your shape which will translate directly into the photographs to look amaaazing!
Layers: Always a choice-pick for downtown locations.
Guys: Nice jeans, slick kicks, collared shirt and a loose tie, maybe throw on jacket
Girls: Nice jeans, classy blouse, add spice from patterns, shapes, or color dashes, collaborating accessories, great shoes, fun or classy dress.
Accessories: Compliment your outfit with the accessories, I cannot stress this enough! Even if you don't wear a ton of jewelry (which I don't), there are still a ton of other things that can add to the dimension of your clothing: a clutch, a scarf, a hat, suspenders, a belt, a jacket...you don't have to wear the entire outfit as it is for every picture, having different articles and accessories will make the pictures so much more dynamic and personal.
(note: if you’re going to be wearing high heels, also bring some more comfortable flip-flops or slip-ons with you for walking and trekking crazy places to get those amazing shots I imagine in my head:)).
Variety: Bring 2-3 few different outfits and accessories so that we can mix things up for the feel and locations. We will definately do at least 1 wardrobe change:)
Disclaimer: If you're wondering about an outfit, ask me prior to the shoot or just bring it along to the session and we can see if it works out!

Permission to feel beautiful:

How cheesy this phrase right?! Noooo, it's soo true! You want to look absolutely gorgeous in your photos, and by feeling amazing, you liking what you're wearing and how you're hair is done, then the rest is up to me and you will look amazing with your best friend in the world looking equally as amazing next to you!

Thing NOT to wear:

Neon colors

Matchy tops

Logos or lots of writing – keep it clean and classy.

Super short skirts

Props to bring along:

A “Thank You” or “Save the Date” sign for your personalized thank you and save the

date cards

Pets

A classic car

Instruments you play

Bike

Umbrella

Vintage gloves

Polaroid camera

Quilt and picnic supplies

Hats

Great furniture (vintage chair or couch, Loooove how this one looks for photos)

Something that shows your relationship and makes people think "Yep, that's so (insert name & insert name)!

Makeup and Hair:

Are you having your makeup done for your wedding? Want to get it done for your e-session?! Arrange to have your makeup trial done on the same day of your engagement session, batta-bing batta-boom!

Be yourself and feel comfortable! I know that phrase is so overused, but really, all I want to do is show your relationship as a couple and photograph your love!

As you interact naturally and just chat it up with me and each other, that will translate into the photos and people will be able to see that comfort and see your personalities easily.

You get dressed and feel amazing, show up and then the rest is up to me. I don't expect a thing from you but to have fun being with your fiance! ...and my camera:))

I will direct you into actions, we will be moving, we will be laughing, and we will be capturing your moments because you will both look amazing that day I am sure of it!

Here are some clothing images to jog your inspiration for your session:

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