Hi friends!
I'm back today sharing helpful tips on planning your upcoming engagement session. I had so much fun helping out with my friends' engagement photos in SF alongside the wonderful Olivia Richards. Can't wait for you to see more below, including a gorgeous bouquet made by Mums Floral Design. But first, here are my 3 steps in planning your dream engagement shoot:
Step 1: Choose a significant location. Whether it's the first place you met, the first home you shared together, or just a special place you like to visit, make sure it's somewhere or some activity you enjoy together. My friends, who are originally from Southern California and Minnesota, met during college at University of Oregon. While they love the beach and love wine country, we settled to shoot in San Francisco where they have built a life together the past 5 years. They love enjoying a nice bottle of wine, and even better enjoying it outside. When it came to nailing down their shoot location, I realized they have one of the best views in the city overlooking the Bay and Ghiradhelli Square. After the roof, we made our way down to Wattle Creek Winery, a charming tasting room where they could relax in a familiar setting. We finished the evening at Baker Beach, which made for the most blissful, serene shots ever.
Step 2: Make it a real F-U-N time. Let's face it, most people don't like being photographed in front of the camera for too long. But if you style your shoot around an enjoyable and relaxing activity (a.k.a sipping rosé during sunset on the beach), it will take the stress away and hide any pre-wedding awkwardness. Casual engagement sessions have always been an absolute favorite of mine. I love seeing engagement photos in the comfort of their own home, sharing lattes at a local cafe, or even strolling through a farmer's market hand in hand. Wherever and whatever it may be, make sure you can laugh with each other and completely be your selves.
Step 3: Don't stress on your outfit. If you need a second opinion, don't be afraid to ask your photographer or wedding planner. We are experts when it comes to this and would love to help in any way we can! While a new outfit always feels amazing (minus having buyer's remorse right afterwards), it's not necessary to have a successful shoot. Make sure to pick an outfit that makes you feel good, easy to move in, and reflects your true self. It's very likely you will be sharing these photos with family, friends, and your wedding website, so it's important they show off your style, specials traits, and unique love for another.
Andria Leigh Events offers styling services for engagement/lifestyle shoots with Olivia Richards Photography.
Send us an inquiry in you're interested in booking this Fall or Winter 2017!
Photography: Olivia Richards // Styling: Andria Leigh Events // Florals: Mums Floral Design
