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Tips on how to choose your ideal engagement session location…

We are in full swing for wedding bookings thanks to engagement season and it means this spring will be packed full of engagement sessions. I am planning a few blog posts dedicated to engagement portraits. First off, let’s talk about picking the right location. There is no “right” location or one size fits all spot. Below are a few categories that you can think through to help you choose the perfect engagement session location.

Sentimental:

One way to choose your engagement session location would be to pick a place that has sentimental value. Think about your love story… did you take your first date at a certain park? Did you get engaged someplace scenic? Did you meet in high school or college that’s local? Is there something you love to do as a couple? Let’s try and tailor the location to be as unique as you are as a couple. Possible locations are your former campus for high school or college, and a lake that you both like to kayak on. Is there a park you both love to run at or take your dog for a walk? Did you have your first date downtown… if so, maybe a cityscape engagement session would work?

2) Personal Style:

A question I always ask clients is what is your personal style, and what colors are you attracted to? Do you love muted neutrals with minimal color, If so, maybe a simple field would fit your best? Do you love pops of color? If so, you could add the color into your session either with your wardrobe or with the location? Do you prefer an Urban location over a traditional park? Do you want your session to scream unique and fun, or would you prefer it to seem relaxed, natural, and romantic? All of these questions are valid and are ones you should ask yourself.

3) Wedding Aesthetic:

Another way to choose a location is based on the aesthetic of your wedding. If you are planning to use your engagement portraits as save the dates, or to display at your wedding, you should consider that when picking a location. If you are using them as save the dates, try and also choose outfits that are in your wedding colors so it shows a cohesive look and style. For example, if you are having a country club wedding, I think a sophisticated elegant location would be beautiful for your engagement portraits. Planning a rustic barn wedding? I would pick a more natural and rural location.

Popular local locations:

Messiah College Campus: Grantham, PA

This is a scenic area that includes a creek, red covered bridge, walking trails, and evergreen trees.

Harrisburg: State and Front St.

This location is great for someone wanting some pops of architecture, think city streets, and alleyways. It’s a quick walk down to the walking bridge over the Susquehanna river and the state capital has beautiful steps and a fountain.

Yellow Breaches:

Clients who choose this location want a natural feel to their session. The natural location features the Yellow Breaches creek, natural fences, a tree-lined street as well as a long grass field.