choosing the perfect time, location, outfit & more!

Engagement Session

planning your

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Second, you can showcase your personalities in a more casual setting that is significant to the two of you (and even include pets!). While they’re great for save-the-dates, I’ve taken engagement photos anywhere from 18 months in advance to a few days before the wedding. 

There is a lot to think about when it comes to planning a session and since I get asked the same things over and over again, I thought it would be the most beneficial if I put together a guide that walks you through everything you need to know!

I’ll cover what to wear, whether to bring pets & how to manage them, location ideas and more! 

I'm so excited to be working with you and can’t wait for our time together during your engagement session! It’s normal to be a little nervous about your session. I always tell people that I still get nervous before having our photos taken - and I do this for a living!

I'm a big fan of engagement sessions for a few reasons. First, they allow you to get comfortable in front of the camera. It takes time for most couples to warm up to being photographed and understand how I pose. Timelines can be pretty tight on weddings days and 30 minutes may be all we have for portraits - which is why I’ve found that wedding day portraits turn out so much better when couples do engagement sessions ahead of time. 

Welcome

Engagement sessions can take place anywhere from immediately following a proposal to just a few days before the wedding. I’ve found that there isn’t a “good” or “bad” time to take your photos. I normally plan sessions based on a particular “look” a couple has in mind, spring flowers for example, or based on schedules. 

Sessions typically last about an hour and a half and when when I can—I love to begin sessions about two hours before sunset. I prefer to shoot when the sun is lower in the sky to avoid harsh shadows and bright sun patches. The first two hours after sunrise is also an ideal time to shoot.

We schedule sessions during what I believe will be the best light of the day - which means that it’s super important to be on time. If you’re late to an evening session, we could run out of light before we’ve finished shooting and if your session takes place in the morning, the sun gets more harsh as it rises. 

"GOOD" TIME TO TAKE PHOTOS? 

Time & Light: is there a

While I shoot most of my engagement sessions between April and late November, sessions can take place all year. Most of our couples choose a season based on the location where they want to shoot. 

A few things to keep in mind during each season:

Seasons

If you’re planning to take your engagement photos during the winter, keep in mind that if your session takes place in the evening, we could begin shooting as early as 2:30pm to catch the sunset. We recommend dressing in layers so that in between photos you can warm up. Make sure you bring a little extra makeup and tissues in case your nose begins running. 

snowfall, hot cocoa and cozy coats

Winter

Even though Spring begins in March, we typically don’t begin shooting for another 6 weeks because the weather in Ohio is still pretty chilly. If you would like cherry blossoms though, late March to early April is when you can expect to see those in full bloom. The weather can be unpredictable during spring, but the blooms make it so worth it!!

fresh flowers and sunny days 

Spring

In spite of the heat, I'm a big fan of summer sessions! Because of the later sunset, sessions sometimes begin as late as 6pm. If you’re taking your engagement photos during the summer, I recommend bringing extra makeup and a few towels to make sure you stay fresh throughout your session. Those summer night sunsets have a magical glow for photos!!

walks on the beach hand in hand

Summer

Fall is one of the prettiest times of the year on the East Coast and because of the perfect weather, my schedule typically books up quickly! If you have your heart set on a fall engagement session, we recommend scheduling it as soon as you book! 

colorful leaves and snuggling close

Fall

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If your wedding is local, save the dates should be sent between 6 and 8 months before the wedding. For a destination wedding, you’ll want to send them out 8 to 10 months before the wedding. 

If you’re hoping to use your engagement photos for your save the dates, I recommend scheduling your session at least two months before you plan to send out your save-the-dates. Between inclement weather, editing, designing your save-the-dates and printing, two months is generally a safe amount of time to make sure your images and cards are ready. 

Save-the-dates

Hyatt Cleveland Arcade*
Cleveland Public Square
Medina Square
East 4th Street
Playhouse Square Theater
Akron Art Museum*
Little Italy
Cleveland Flats Eastbank
Fountain of Eternal Life/Mall B


locations

I love a city style engagement session. We are so fortunate to live in Northeast, Ohio to have so many different types of locations for photos. Cleveland especially looks so similar to New York, that it has been used in movies! My favorite part is how most locations don't require a fee to take photos! Whether there is a bar that you love or you want the skyline vibes with a rooftop session, there are a number of possibilities in downtown Cleveland or Akron. 

city/Downtown

Cleveland Cultural Gardens
Cleveland Botanical Gardens*
Stan Hywet*
Kingwood Garden Center*
Holden Arboretum*
Rockefeller Park Greenhouse
Canton Garden Center
Schoepfle Garden
Brecksville Reservation
Kendall Lake/Overlook
Indigo lake


locations

garden/nature

I absolutely love the magic of sessions in gardens and nature. Especially when flowers are in bloom and the sunlight is pouring into the greenery. If you love the outdoors, we have some absolutely stunning parks and gardens. I also love that we are right by a national park and it is free to experience and take photos! I worked at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens and we are truly blessed with some stunning gardens in the area.

Cleveland Museum of Art
The Hay-Mckinney Mansion*
The Hanna Courtyard Garden*
Cleveland Public Library*
Old Courthouse*
McKinley Memorial Park
Hyatt Cleveland Arcade*
Kingwood Center Garden*
Mooreland Mansion
Stan Hywet*


locations

Do you love history or admire the detail of historical architecture? We have absolutely STUNNING historical buildings in Northeast, Ohio. Most require a fee, but are absolutely worth it for beautiful photos! I worked at Stan Hywet for nearly 9 seasons and loved the history behind all the beauty. 

Elegant/Historical

Edgewater Beach
Huntington Beach Reservation
Rocky River Park Beach
Voinovich Park
Lakeview Beach
Mentor Headlands
Old Cleveland Coastguard

locations

I think my favorite thing about Northeast, Ohio as a photographer is how you truly have a ton of variety when it comes to locations. Do you want a beach session or by water for a more nautical theme? Absolutely possible!! Being on the shores of the great lakes gives the feel of beach life without having to go to the ocean! It's pretty cool that you can even start your session in the city and then end with a beach sunset!

Beach

Gervasi Vineyard
Orchid House Winery
Sapphire Creek
Sarah's Vineyard

locations

Vineyards are so stunning with this feeling that you are somewhere abroad. Another unique thing about Ohio is we have a lot of wineries and vineyards! One of my favorites is Gervasi Vineyard with the atmosphere of somewhere far and definitely not Ohio. There are even more vineyards and orchards that give a unique look to your photos. 

Vineyard

Catawaba Island
Hocking Hills
Ledges Overlook
Kelleys Island
Marblehead

locations in ohio

Who doesn't love an adventure!? These type of engagement sessions are more destination sessions that may be more than an hour away from Medina, Ohio. Say there is a really special location in Ohio to the two of you, but it is a bit further out and will require some travel. That is absolutely okay! We can definitely make that happen! And if you booked my collection 1 for your wedding photography, then travel to anywhere in Ohio for your engagement session is included! Want to go out of state? I'm always up for exploring! Send me a message and we can get to planning!

adventure

The above locations are all beautiful but I also love exploring meaningful locations with my couples!

*Location requires a fee

Adventure

Vineyard/Orchard

Beach/Waterfront

Elegant/Historical

Garden/Nature

City/Downtown

session styles/locations 

I love when couples choose a location for their session that complements their wedding. For example, if you’re planning a chic, elegant wedding, it may be fitting to take your engagement portraits among the classic architecture in downtown Cleveland, while a local park or flower-filled fields may be more fitting for a couple planning a more rustic affair.

The best session locations are often meaningful places to the couple; however, I am also happy to make recommendations. From ski slopes to lavish gardens to apple picking and college campuses, the options for engagement session locations are endless! 

NOrtheast Ohio ENGAGEMENT LOCATIONS

style & Locations

While most of my engagement sessions take place in Ohio, I’ve photographed sessions out of state as well! If you have a location in mind that is significant to the two of you, let me know because if our schedules align, I might be able to take your engagement photos outside of  Ohio!

Travel fees may apply depending on the location and my availability.

Engagement sessions

destination

I love when couples choose to incorporate pets into their session. Keep in mind that bringing a pet along often means that we’ll need to choose a pet friendly location. 

I recommend planning for your pet to be at the first part of your session and then either dropping them off or having a friend take them home. I won’t use the pet in every single photo so it’s also nice to have a friend available to hold him or her in between shots. 

If you’re going to bring a pet, I recommend exercising your pet before the session and bringing your pets favorite toy or treats! Depending on your pet’s fur type, it might also be a good idea to groom them before the shoot. 

Pets 

When picking outfits I recommend keeping in mind the word “complement” rather than “match.” For example, if the groom-to-be is wearing a blue and pink pastel plaid shirt, the bride-to-be may want to choose a long, soft blue dress. It can also be a great idea to choose “color-families,” such as pastels or jewel tones.

Generally couples pick two outfits for an engagement session: a more formal outfit and a casual outfit. I recommend saving your more casual outfit for later in the session, when couples usually feel more comfortable in front of the camera. And don’t forget to bring a few accessories! Statement necklaces, cute shoes and classic watches are great ways to add detail to outfits. 

TIPS FOR LOOKING YOUR BEST

Outfits

on to the next

When picking outfits I recommend keeping in mind the word “complement” rather than “match.” For example, if the groom is wearing a blue and pink pastel plaid shirt, the bride may want to choose a long, soft blue dress. It can also be a great idea to choose “color-families,” such as pastels or jewel tones.

A good rule of thumb: pick 3 or so colors and spread them throughout your attire. Don't be afraid to mix a few subtle patterns or textures (such as linen). 

And always keep the location in mind. If we're shooting in a green field, light green dresses might blend in too much with the surroundings. 

Choosing Outfits

for everyone

on to the next

Heels lengthen legs but if your heels aren’t comfortable for walking or we'll be in grass, bring an extra pair of shoes to slip into in between shots.

I love the way larger patterns and textures (like linen) photograph - just be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photo look a little too busy.

Softer, pastel colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin. 

Wardrobe Tips

for the ladies

on to the next

Statement jewelry is a great way to add color or pattern to a simple dress. Lace and tulle look amazing in photographs.

And dresses with sleeves are a great way to help slim arms. Depending on your location, you might want to consider a fit and flare or a flowy dress.

They look great in walking and photos with movement. Choose an outfit you feel comfortable in, but don’t be afraid to dress up!

Accessories

for the ladies

I think it’s so important that you look and feel your best for your photos. Investing in professional hair and makeup can go a long way towards creating photos you love for years. 

Professionally done hair & makeup last longer than typical hair & makeup. They also tend to hold up better in humidity and wind.

If you go this route, we recommend staying a bit “classic”. Now probably isn’t the best time to try out that new contouring technique you saw on TikTok. 

If you’re planning to do any spray tans or waxing, schedule those for a few days before the session to give your skin time to recover. 

Hair & Makeup

for the ladies

on to the next

You can’t go wrong with crisp button up. Or consider layering a blazer or sweater with jeans with this look. Bowties are always a good idea.

Be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photo look a little too busy.

Softer, pastel colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin. Cozy sweaters layered over button ups are a great way to stay warm and stylish during the cooler months.

Wardrobe

for the gents

on to the next

WHERE TO SHOP

Outfits

FOR THE gENTS

HAIR & MAKEUP

WHERE TO SHOP

ACCESSORIES

Outfits

FOR THE LADIES

FOR everyone

When I can, I always try to take a photo of your rings while you're getting ready. If possible, try to have your engagement ring cleaned or clean it yourself.

To clean at home, soak your ring in warm water with dishwashing soap for 20 to 40 minutes. Then gently brush the stone with a soft toothbrush, rinse and repeat if needed.

The Rings

It’s typical for me to schedule two engagement session dates. A primary date and a rain date. Having two dates helps us make sure that your photos happen in a timely manner. Coordinating schedules can be tough and we’ve found that the best way to make sure our couples get the look they have in mind for their photos is to schedule two dates at the same time.

We’ll check in the week of your engagement session to confirm the time & location we’re meeting and the weather. We know it takes a lot of time to get ready for engagement sessions and it’s the worst to get dressed up and drive out to your session only to have it rain. Let us know what works best for the two of you - but if the weather looks like it won’t be great, we typically try to make the call at least 12 hours in advance. 

what to do if it rains

Inclement Weather

If you’re planning to bring props to your engagement session, I recommend including them only if they’re meaningful to you.

Shots drinking coffee at a local coffee shop would be cute if that’s where you met or coffee shops play a significant role in your relationship; however, trying to fly a kite together when it’s not a part of your relationship may come off as contrived.

props?

should we bring

When it comes to posing for your engagement session, you don’t need to worry about a thing! I’ll guide you through the entire process beginning with “poses” that are super easy and natural. If I tell you to do something that feels a little funny, it’s probably because I know it’s going to make the two of you laugh - and that’s the photo I'm actually looking for. 

Throughout your session, I’ll keep an eye on your hair, makeup and outfits to make sure things stay in place. I want you to feel as relaxed as possible and enjoy your time together! 

"what do I do with my hands?"

posing

A note on

If you’re anything like me, you probably don’t get dressed up all that often. Which means that the day of your engagement session is the perfect occasion for a date night (or brunch if your session is in the morning!)

The engagement session is another part of celebrating your love and heading off to dinner is a great way to end the session!

Date Night

As soon as the next day, you will receive a sneak peek of your engagement session! I usually post a few on social media and tag you as well! Unless we have a holiday closure, you can expect to receive your engagement photos between 3 and 4 weeks after your session. 

Images

When to Expect Your

I know that this guide is long and hopefully it covers everything you need to know to prep for your engagement session! However if there is something I missed, or you need a recommendation feel free to email me at nikki@avrastudio.com

THANK YOU!