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Of all the questions people ask me the most asked ones are about the engagement sitting so I thought it would be helpful to address them. An “engagement sitting” is simply a thirty minute portrait session of the future bride and groom and can be done either indoors or outdoors.
These photos are then used for a few different things, like a newspaper announcement of the engagement, a framed portrait to display at the engagement party or wedding reception, a guest book or signature board, save the date cards, wedding programs and wedding invitations or, you may just want to have some photos to display in your home that capture the love and excitement you felt during the engagement. Once you decide if you want to do one the next thing you should decide is what are you going to do with these photos and be sure to tell the photographer what they are for as this will effect the poses taken during the session. Many newspapers will reject photos if they do not meet a certain criteria so be sure your photographer knows what they are looking for.
As for the hot button issue of location most people choose an outdoor session at the Shore with the two leading spots being the beaches of Sandy Hook or the Boardwalk of Point Pleasant Beach the first being classic and romantic while the latter is quirky and fun. Not everyone is a beach person and some choose to go to a local park or a special spot like the college campus they met at for photos but be sure to call the parks department/land owner to be sure you can take photos there. Some parks require you to get written permission or pay a small fee in order to take photos there and if you don’t have one the park ranger will escort you back to your car (I speak from first hand experience on this).
As for the question of “what do I wear” you should always take into account a few things, like, the weather, the location, and what the images will be used for. If you are doing a sitting at the beach you may want to wear your hair pulled away from your face as it will more then likely be a bit breezy and a cocktail dress is not recommended nor is a suit and tie as it doesn’t fit with the surroundings but a swim suit is not appropriate either. Consider wearing clothing that have similar tones and fabrics, avoiding patterns, and keeping in mind your surroundings when choosing strong colors. A red dress at the beach is not the best idea but a red dress for you and a red tie for him and a large Christmas tree in the background is GREAT! Also, keep the sunglasses, purses and cellphones in the car and heavy coats are never recommended try a cute scarf and gloves for a great fall/winter look. Below is a list of ideas but when in doubt just ask your photographer for recommendations. That is why you hired them to give you their opinions as professionals.
Keep in Mind
coordinate your clothing but don’t match, your engaged not twins
avoid strong patterns
dress appropriately for the location and look you are trying to achieve
ladies get a manicure your hand and amazing ring will appear in most of the photos
make sure you have permission to take photos at the location
Some Cute Ideas
khakis and a polo are always a great choice
jeans are great when paired with a blazer for men and a cute top for ladies
a scarf and gloves add a splash of color and keep you warm while taking photos
a more formal look of suit and tie for men and a cocktail dress for ladies works best for studio portrait sessions
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