A Complete Guide to Taking Fall Engagement Pictures

When autumn rolls around, the leaves change color and the air becomes crisp. Warm days full of gorgeous color fade into nights snacking on popcorn, apples, and donuts. This is the perfect time to take fall engagement pictures! The scenery is beautiful and there’s a lot of different options for locations. Here are some tips for taking fall engagement pictures:

Choose a Beautiful Fall Engagemnet Pictures Location 

First, you’ll want to set the scene. Pick a location with lots of fall colors. This could be a park, a forest, or even your backyard. In Erie County we are lucky to have so many amazing outdoor fall photo options. 

One of the more popular locations in Erie County to take fall engagement photos at is Frontier Park. It offers sprawling fields of grass and lots of trees with colorful leaves. Another fun option is Presque Isle State Park. Not only are there changing leaves, but there’s also sandy beaches and gorgeous sunsets. 

We have our own secret Fall Engagement Pictures location with access to a tree lined path, a creek, lakefront photos and beautiful sunset views. We won’t tell you here. It’s our little secret spot. Reach out to plan your session with us and we’ll meet you there!  Or check out some fantastic ideas here: Best Places to Take Engagement Photos

Participate in Fall Activities and Use Props

I don’t know about you, but fall is my favorite time of the year. And, I’m guessing it might be yours too since you’re considering taking fall engagement pictures. That means you also love autumn activities. Pumpkin farms, pumpkin carving, spiced donuts and breads, apple picking, and making piles of leaves to jump in are all fun autumn activities. My favorite fall engagement photo session was when we took photos throwing leaves at each other. I’m going to share some of my favorites from their session on this blog!

Consider Weather, Light, and Time of Day

While engagement photos during any time of year will be magical, there’s something about fall engagement pictures that is unique. The combination of crisp weather, golden light, warm colors, and the seasonal smells just make it romantic and inviting. 

The crisp weather during the fall months allows you to bundle up in layers of warm, fuzzy sweaters and gorgeous scarves. The sun’s rays seem more golden when reflecting off the brilliant orange, yellows, and reds of the changing leaves. In addition, taking your photos during the ‘Golden Hour’ right before sunset can leave you with breath-taking images for your engagement photos.

Find out everything you need to know about When to Take Engagement Pictures.

Prepare Fall Outfits for Your Photoshoot

Putting a little bit of thought into your outfits will give you a big payoff. We at Erie Photography offer an outfit change to our brides and grooms-to-be. So, it’s good to prepare two outfits.

You and your partner’s outfits should complement each other, but you do not want to match. Leave the matching flannels at home. Those are best for a weekend BBQ while watching the game. 

Warm fuzzy sweaters in solid colors, long sleeve solid colored tailored shirts, khakis and jeans are all great options for the ladies. Consider a maxi-skirt with knee high boots if you want to go dressier. Cute pulled back updo’s are great for fall because of the wind. You don’t want a mouthful of hair during your session. 

And for the fellas, a solid colored tailored shirt or sweater in a complimentary color with khakis or jeans will look amazing. Depending on your personality consider casual slip on shoes or dressier boots for the guys. Something he can wipe clean easily in case the ground is a little wet.

Wondering What to Wear for your Fall Engagement Pictures? Read more…see the link?

Opt for Natural Makeup and Hair Styles

As with your outfits, your hair and makeup at your fall engagement pictures should be timeless and in keeping with your usual style. Now is not the time to try a new fancy up-do for the very first time. Unless you want to practice your wedding looks in your engagement photographs, of course.

Highlight your natural beauty by sticking to mascara, foundation, brows, and a light lipstick.

For fall engagement pictures, lean into your hair’s natural texture. You might consider an updo to keep your hair out of your face as autumn tends to be windier.

And remember to treat yourself to a manicure before your photoshoot. Your engagement photographers will want to get some pictures of that gorgeous ring.

Consider Layers for Fall Engagement Pictures.

Here in Erie, Pa the autumn weather can be mild and welcoming with warm golden sun or it can be rainy and cool with a chill in the air. So, we’re sending you off with this last bit of advice. Consider layering your outfits so you don’t freeze or die from heat exposure. 

Still not sold on the idea of Engagement Photos? Check out Why You NEED Engagement Photos!

Erie Photography Services

Other Services We Offer

Our team is available for your next project.

Erie Photography is a world-renowned production studio that offers a wide variety of photo and video services. We are proud to be the biggest photography studio in our region, and we can help you with your next project. We have been operating in Erie PA  or 12+ years, and we have a lot of experience in Photography & Videography Services We offer a wide variety of services, including photo shooting and video production. Check out our other Services for more information!

Book Erie Photo & Video Services to Capture YOUR Unique Story. 

Erie Photography™

Erie Wedding & Event Services
Wedding Planning | Wedding Disc Jockey | Erie Wedding Photography | Wedding Photo Booth | Wedding Videography
1001 State Street, Erie, PA 16501
814-246-2149 | info@erie-pics.com | www.erie-pics.com

A Complete Guide to Your Summer Engagement Photoshoot

Endless warm evenings and fields of fragrant flowers. The summer season conjures so many happy memories, it is no wonder many couples choose to marry at this magical time of year.

And if you are planning to take your engagement photos in the summer, you will no doubt love the results, too.

But photoshoots in summer present unique challenges. You need to prepare for the heat, humidity, and often blinding sunlight. But don’t worry, this guide covers everything to consider before and during your summer engagement photoshoot.

Choose a Beautiful Summer Engagement Photoshoot Location

All good engagement photos start with the right locations. Erie has many photogenic locations in the summer including beaches, lush green fields, and mountains. And of course the beautiful and unrivaled Lake Erie.

Many engagement photography packages, like ours, offer up to two locations. But if you decide on two locations, keep them close together. Not only to maximize photography time, but so you do not get hot and sweaty traveling from place to place!

When considering locations for your engagement photographs, choose places with a personal connection. Did you visit a specific park when you first started dating or do you live next to a beautiful field?

Don’t forget to ask your wedding photographers for their recommendations. It is likely they already know about fields that bloom at certain times of the year or the most secluded beaches. Or check out some fantastic ideas here: Best Places to Take Engagement Photos

Play Summer Activities and Use Props

Though photographers are pros at getting people to relax, do not worry if you still feel awkward and nervous. Consider doing an activity with your spouse-to-be so you have something else to focus on other than the camera during your summer engagement photoshoot.

You could pack a small picnic and enjoy a glass of lemonade with your partner. You could play frisbee or go for a simple walk on the beach. And if you have a pet you could bring them in on the action and walk your dog through the woodlands instead of posing in one place.

And some couples love engagement photo props. You could both hold up signs, one with “he asked” and another with “she said yes!” on the front. After all, they are your engagement photos and you should do whatever makes you happy.

Plus, they look great on social media!

Avoid bringing any props or activities for the sake of it. If you do not play frisbee together on the beach in summer then it might not make sense to do that in your engagement photos.

Consider Weather, Light, and Time of Day

Here in Erie, PA we are lucky to have up to 15 hours of sunlight in summer.  This gives us lots of opportunities to take photographs in natural light.

Golden hour is well-known to be the prime time to take photographs outdoors. It is the hour after sunset and before sunrise when the light is often softer.

But you do not need to be a photography expert and choose the best time of day for photographs yourself! Your engagement and wedding photographers will make sure you pick the right time of day with the right light for amazing photographs. We do not want you to be squinting or sweating in bright sunshine, either. Scheduling your summer engagement photoshoot at the right time of day is crucial to getting the best results. 

We cover everything from what season to what time of day in our guide When to Take Engagement Pictures.

Prepare the Perfect Outfits for Your Summer Engagement Photoshoot

Putting a little bit of thought into your outfits will give you a big payoff. We at Erie Photography offer an outfit change to our brides and grooms-to-be. So, it’s good to prepare two outfits.

You and your partner’s outfits should complement each other, but you do not want to match. Leave the his-and-hers Hawaiian shirts for the retirement trips in your RV.

Gorgeous flowy dresses are perfect for summer engagement photos. And engagement photographers love them too because they look stunning on camera! Opt for sandals instead of heels and keep jewelry classic and minimal.

And for the fellas, a white linen shirt with a pattern is ideal as it won’t show any unfortunate sweat stains. And you can team it with a woven brown belt and khaki shorts or pants for a smart yet comfortable look.

In winter photoshoots, a pop of color is perfect to stand out against the gray skies. But in summer, it pays to match your surroundings. Ask your engagement photographers for color advice because they are the color experts.  

Whatever you decide, keep your outfits relaxed and casual. Your wedding photographs will likely be more formal so it is nice to have engagement photos that offer something different. For more help check out: What to Wear For Engagement Photos

Opt for Natural Makeup and Hair Styles

As with your outfits, your hair and makeup at your summer engagement photoshoot should be timeless and in keeping with your usual style. Now is not the time to try a new fancy up-do for the very first time. Unless you want to practice your wedding looks in your engagement photographs, of course.

Highlight your natural beauty by sticking to mascara, foundation, brows, and a light lipstick.

For summer photoshoots, lean into your hair’s natural texture. You might consider using serum or hairspray to stop flyaways and frizz in high humidity.

And remember to treat yourself to a manicure before your photoshoot. Your engagement photographers will want to get some pictures of that gorgeous ring.

Plan Ahead and Stay Safe Outdoors

Don’t forget to be practical and stay safe in the sunshine. Bring water so you can hydrate and keep cool between snaps. And wear sunscreen with a high SPF and UV protection rating so you do not end up looking like a tomato in your engagement photos.

Though the best wedding photographers and editors often know how to even out your complexion if the worst were to happen!

Still not sold on the idea of Engagement Photos? Check out Why You NEED Engagement Photos!

Erie Photography Services

Other Services We Offer

Our team is available for your next project.

Erie Photography is a world-renowned production studio that offers a wide variety of photo and video services. We are proud to be the biggest photography studio in our region, and we can help you with your next project. We have been operating in Erie PA  or 12+ years, and we have a lot of experience in Photography & Videography Services We offer a wide variety of services, including photo shooting and video production. Check out our other Services for more information!

Book Erie Photo & Video Services to Capture YOUR Unique Story. 

Erie Photography™

Erie Wedding & Event Services
Wedding Planning | Wedding Disc Jockey | Erie Wedding Photography | Wedding Photo Booth | Wedding Videography
1001 State Street, Erie, PA 16501
814-246-2149 | info@erie-pics.com | www.erie-pics.com

The Complete Guide to Your Spring Engagement Photo Shoot

A spring engagement photo shoot is popular for a good reason. While love may keep us warm during fall and winter, upcoming spring engagement sessions hold the promise of something to look forward to.

One of our Wedding & Engagement Photographers, Eve, shares her expertise on taking spring engagement photos, including what to wear, the pros and cons of the season, and photo inspiration. We hope this inspires you for your upcoming engagement session.

What to Wear for a Spring Engagement Photo Shoot

Overall, couples should wear something that makes them feel like themselves. Confidence is key! “My whole thing is I want to capture them in what they’re comfortable in but also represent them,” offers Eve. “Usually a go-to, like a dress or jumpsuit, in spring is always nice. It has to fit and fit well. Just a size too big or too small will show in photos.” Light chiffons or lace are excellent for women, and she discourages jersey fabrics because they’re not forgiving, which can translate to unflattering photos. She adds, “Dressing in layers could be beneficial because of fluctuating temperatures in spring.”

She also shares that it’s important to keep your geographical area in mind: what you wear for spring engagement photos may be location-dependent, to an extent. For instance, spring’s temperatures in the north, like in Erie, PA, fluctuate more than in San Diego. 

Discuss outfits with your photographer after you nail down a location for your spring engagement photos.

Consider color for spring. Wear hues that complement the joy you’re feeling and reflect the season, yet be conscientious of your surroundings. And, she says, avoid green! “When it comes to outfits and surroundings, if people want an outdoorsy vibe, green garments surrounded by green grass and trees don’t look great. It doesn’t make the image dynamic.” Go with a contrasting color like pink or red in a grassy area instead.

Pros and Cons of a Spring Engagement Photo Shoot

All seasons present different pros and cons regarding engagement photos, but spring’s most significant advantage is the abundance of flowers. “A spring engagement photo shoot is great for a couple who is sensitive to the heat, who loves flowers, and for couples who want a different look for their engagement shoot than their wedding in an opposite season,” says Eve.

But Mother Nature can also be fickle. The potential is there for engagement photo sessions to “be snowed out” in the north during spring. Prepare for weather to be unpredictable and flowers uncertain.

“Couples, in general, depending on what blooms they’re going for, need to be realistic about a spring engagement session. For example, cherry blossoms sometimes bloom at the end of March—but sometimes it’s mid-April. In this case, they need to be flexible for their photoshoot date. I recommend potentially booking two dates if your photographer agrees to it—a first choice and backup—to maximize your options,” advises our Wedding Coordinator at Erie Wedding & Event Services. 

Be aware that rain is abundant in many areas during spring. This may mean booking an indoor location for your photos as a backup, just in case it rains and you can’t alter your photo session date.

Spring Engagement Photo Shoot Tips

Eve says to think about the location you wish to have an engagement session when considering spring. “There’s minimal green space in the Downtown Areas, but in well taken care of Parks or nature trails, always promises to have something in bloom during spring thanks to the workers who care for the plants in the park.” 

 If you live in an area that has flowering trees, you may wish to schedule a session within a park that has an abundance of them. Botanical gardens are great for this but inquire ahead of time about whether or not a photography permit is required to take photos there. 

 If you think it may rain during your session and proceed with the photo shoot, arrive prepared with cute umbrellas for photos. Lean into the rain—it could result in a rainbow! 

 If leaves aren’t on trees yet and no flowers are around, try to take your engagement photos where there is interesting architecture in the background. Or, if you’re on a coast, consider a beach where there’s consistently sand and water, no matter the time of year. Evergreen trees and desert plant life (including cacti and succulents!) are green year-round, depending on your location. And neutral-toned long grasses in expansive fields are romantic, too.

Look for a Flower Field

What could be better than taking photos in a field of delicate spring flowers to represent new beginnings and new life. Nothing signals to us that spring is here more than those tiny colorful petals bursting forth from the cold ground. With a flower field you have the advantage of wearing outfits that compliment the backdrop.

Go With the Flow

If the temperature drops during your spring engagement session, help each other warm-up. A simple gesture of love and kindness from this groom to his fiancée made for a candid, fun photo.

Use the Warmth of Golden Hour

Images are given a glow when taken during the golden hour, the hour just before sunset. It also instantly warms up the colors reflected on the lake.

Bring the Outside Indoors

If you choose to take photos inside, like in your home, bring nature indoors. The pop of color brought to the scene by spring tulips is subtle yet effective.

Coordinate Colors

Rather than matching, aim to wear outfits that complement each other. Wear coordinated colors, and don’t leave your attire to the last minute. Plan ahead of time in case you need to go shopping!

Choose Spring Hues

Another way to proudly state that you took photos during spring, or remember the season decades down the road, is by wearing delicate spring hues such as peach, light blue, lavender, or off white. Think of the delicate flowers uncurling in the soft dewy grass or the fluffy feathers of baby birds. Pale and pastel spring colors bring a surge of warm emotion.

Utilize Layers

Not only can layering be practical with spring temperatures, but it also means you have multiple looks for your engagement session. Taking a jacket on or off is a quick outfit change!

Keep Leafless Trees Blurry

You and your fiancé are the focus of your spring engagement photos. If you’re taking them in a location with leafless trees, have a conversation with your photographer, who can easily blur the background, keeping those bare branches out of focus.

Find out how choosing a Professional Wedding Photographer can help with this step.

Beat Beach Crowds

Summer months bring crowds to most beaches. One of the benefits of taking spring engagement photos on the beach is that you won’t have to worry about people getting in the way, whether in the background or your favorite spot on the shore.

Dont love the beach? Find the Best Engagement Photo Shoot locations in Erie, Pa.

Think Outside Your Geographical Location

Choose to do a destination engagement session away from home. Most photographers will be on board with the idea, and the results could be breathtaking. We Photographers love new ideas and places to get creative with.

Ask your photographer to extend your photo session beyond an hour to capture a multi-day adventure.

Find Middle Ground

Being quite literally within the middle ground—between the foreground and background of a frame enables spring to surround you. Let your photographer guide you and help show the best the season has to offer with this technique.

Don’t Be Afraid to Get a Little Dusty

It’s a great idea to have the couple sit in this grass field. It gives the image an entirely different feel and impact than if they were standing. The more willing you are to try the situations and poses your photographer may direct you towards, the more variety you’ll have in your spring engagement photo shoot gallery.

Still not sold on the idea of Engagement Photos? Check out Why You NEED Engagement Photos!

Erie Photography Services

Other Services We Offer

Our team is available for your next project.

Erie Photography is a world-renowned production studio that offers a wide variety of photo and video services. We are proud to be the biggest photography studio in our region, and we can help you with your next project. We have been operating in Erie PA  or 12+ years, and we have a lot of experience in Photography & Videography Services We offer a wide variety of services, including photo shooting and video production. Check out our other Services for more information!

Book Erie Photo & Video Services to Capture YOUR Unique Story. 

Erie Photography™

Erie Wedding & Event Services
Wedding Planning | Wedding Disc Jockey | Erie Wedding Photography | Wedding Photo Booth | Wedding Videography
1001 State Street, Erie, PA 16501
814-246-2149 | info@erie-pics.com | www.erie-pics.com

When To Get Engagement Photos

The question has been popped and the answer is YES…..when to get Engagement Photos!!! Just kidding…or not. We’re going to cover all of the possibilities here from when you book your Wedding Photographer, to how far in advance you should have your engagement session. We’ll also talk about the best times of year AND what time of day works best for when to get Engagement Photos. 

Stick around because this is going to be an exciting ride full of lots of crucial information to help you have the most amazing Engagement Photo Shoot ever!

How Far Out Should You Book Your Session?

Deciding when to get engagement photos begins with searching for your Wedding Photographer. You’ll notice many include an engagement photoshoot in their Wedding Collections. It’s good for both you and them. You get to know each other better AND you have amazing photos for announcements and Save-the-Dates. (See more reasons Why You Need An Engagement Photoshoot.) If you’re sending out Save-the-Dates, when to get Engagement Photos is easy. You’ll want to do it 12-6 months prior to your wedding day. Remember that typical photo turnaround time can be 4-8 weeks depending on what time of year you meet. (If you book during your photographer’s busy wedding season the wait will be longer.) After getting your Viewing Gallery you’ll need time to choose your photo and order cards. Save-the-Dates should go out at least 6 months prior to your wedding day. Sooner, if your wedding falls near a holiday date.  The next item to consider is well…your actual wedding day. A lot of couples we work with want to get engagement photos in the same season of the year that their wedding will take place to tie things together. If that’s the case, obviously you’ll want to hold your engagement session 14-10 months before your wedding day as seasons are about 3-4 months long.

What Time of Day to Get Engagement Photos?

Now that you’ve decided ‘when to get engagement photos’ you need to decide ‘when to get engagement photos’. What? Did I just stutter? No. I mean…what time of day is best for Engagement Photos. Start by asking yourself what you want to capture. If you’re taking outdoor photos the sunlight, or lack thereof, will affect your decision.

First, any good professional photographer will tell you about the “Golden Hour”. This is our dream time to take photos. It’s the time of day when the sun’s gorgeous rays are soft and compliment everyone. There are 2 hours each day. For early morning risers, it’s right after the sun emerges. For everyone else, it’s right before the sunsets.

The next thing to think about is High Noon. You know why they called it High Noon in all those old Westerns? Because the sun is highest in the sky at that time. It’s roughly noon to two o’clock each day. It’s the least flattering time of day to take outdoor photos. The sun is at its hottest, so you can find yourself sweltering in the summer. It’s also at its brightest, leaving you squinting in every photo. Be cautious with planning your session during this time of day. This lighting can leave you with the dreaded ‘racoon eyes’ in your pictures. 

If you have any other questions about when to get engagement photos you can reach out to us and ask! (Like Where to Get Engagement Photos done?)A professional wedding & engagement photographer is going to have answers to most of your questions to make planning your day less stressful. Remember, that it doesn’t matter when or where you take your engagement photos. If you don’t click with your photographer, you won’t have as good an experience. Here’s a list of What to Ask Before Hiring a Wedding Photographer If you need more help you can always reach out to an Erie Wedding Planner who can get you started on the right path

Erie Photography Services

Other Services We Offer

Our team is available for your next project.

Erie Photography is a world-renowned production studio that offers a wide variety of photo and video services. We are proud to be the biggest photography studio in our region, and we can help you with your next project. We have been operating in Erie PA  or 12+ years, and we have a lot of experience in Photography & Videography Services We offer a wide variety of services, including photo shooting and video production. Check out our other Services for more information!

Book Erie Photo & Video Services to Capture YOUR Unique Story. 

Erie Photography™

Erie Wedding & Event Services
Wedding Planning | Wedding Disc Jockey | Erie Wedding Photography | Wedding Photo Booth | Wedding Videography
1001 State Street, Erie, PA 16501
814-246-2149 | info@erie-pics.com | www.erie-pics.com