It is Love Shack Photo's belief that an engagement session prior to your big day is one of the best ways to feel the most comfortable being photographed on your wedding day. Many are nervous and do not know what to expect when we start at the beginning of the shoot, but after a few minutes it is like we are friends and just chatting while I am taking photos here and there. All of our couples leave with saying how fun it was, it was easier than expected, and that they are thankful they had engagement photos taken. That's what makes me so happy, because really what I want is for you to enjoy yourselves, feel comfortable and at ease, and for you to have relaxed, gorgeous and "true to who you are" photos.
The engagement session is a great way for me to learn a little about you, what you may like or dislike about being photographed, how to flatter you the most. When I arrive at the wedding, we will have established a nice rapport and it will always feel less awkward and I hope you will high five me when I walk into your hotel room on your wedding day!
I believe that I can make the gorgeous images at just about any location imaginable. Of course, I always like a challenge, some place new. The session and location really reflect the two of you and your likes and love. Diners, wineries, carnivals or fairs, urban landscapes, old barns, etc. are some great places to shoot. In Philadelphia Old City, South Street, Art Museum, Northern Liberties are good choices and do not require a permit. I have captured the most lovely photos just walking a couple city blocks around the beautiful cobblestone streets surrounding Rittenhouse or the steps of the Rodin Museum. Please note that Penn's Landing, the Waterworks, Independence National Historical Park (NPS) all require a permit in advance. Independence Park includes the Merchants Exchange Building, the First Bank, the Rose Garden, the 18th Century Garden, the Second Bank of the United States, Washington Square Park and Dock Creek. On the outskirts of Philadelphia and if you prefer to have a more rustic or less urban landscape session, there are other beautiful locations - farms, local parks that have meaning to you, wineries, and my favorite...your house and yard. I have photographed some of the most photojournalistic and artistic photos in my couples homes, where they are the most relaxed and playful (listening to records, cooking, frolicking on the couch, fighting over the remote, ha!) Let your imagination run wild, but don't stress if you can not think of a location. We can discuss it and I can offer some ideal locations. Please keep in mind that many locations require a permit, have photography restrictions, or entrance fees and you should be prepared prior to the session with accessibility options by calling ahead or acquiring a permit.
You will generally be too hectic right before the wedding, so we suggest scheduling the session far enough in advance. The season really depends on you, fall and spring engagement sessions being the most popular. However, I love photographing in the winter, or a beach engagement session! The best time of the day to shoot is an hour or two before sunset, so keep that in mind. Mid-day is generally not ideal, as the sun is very high and the light is not flattering, though we can always find shade if it is the only time you are available. Natural light photography is most flattering, but there are times when I will break out camera flash to use off camera for a dramatic look or perhaps a night engagement session.