This is a time in your life that goes by so quickly! I'm excited to capture these moments and join in on your grand adventure with you! Your engagement session is all about you and your honey - so let's make it your own. This style guide is simply a general outline for what to think about as you plan + help prepare you for your session so take as many or as little of the tips and ideas you find here to guide you!
It's all about Timing
I love to play with light and the dreamiest colors and shadows happen early morning/nearing sunset. I encourage all of my couples to choose one of these times so that we can catch the epic changes of the sky and make memories in the midst of natures magic. Keep in mind the season you're taking your engagements -- winter in Colorado can mean pink noses at sunrise but summer means skipping the crowds and the afternoon showers. Sunsets can be stunning but can also be crowded at popular spots as most areas are more apt to evening goers vs early risers.
+ Do make sure to plan a buffer when getting ready and make sure to show up a few minutes early if possible. If you show up late we'll lose light and session time!
Location, Location, Location
Location is up to you! Here are a few helpful ideas that may inspire you, and if you need a suggestion I'm happy to provide one of my secret nooks. I have a vast knowledge of the Western States, their National Parks, and less traveled trails to choose from! Actually, just scroll to the bottom for a list of spots I have traveled to and LOVE photographing at!
+ Choose a location special to you: Have a favorite hike? Was your first kiss beneath a Yosemite waterfall? What's your usual date spot? Campsite? Coffee shop? Flower garden? Brewery? This can be anywhere you two love to hang out!
+ Involve activities you enjoy doing together: Mountain biking, Highlining, Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Running, Climbing, Snowboarding, Kayaking, Dog Sledding, Base Jumping, Hiking, Camping, Riding Motorcycles, ect. This list could go on and on and on.
What to Wear
I'll keep this area light because there are really no rules here, just be yourselves. Wear what you feel comfortable/confident in and feel free to ask me any questions you might have about wardrobe. My best advice is to keep it simple and to wear what makes you feel good. That could be anything from hiking pants and a Patagonia Puffy to a Rent the Runway dress and heels. Both photograph beautifully!
+ Do YOU! If you’re more of a camping/outdoor couple then wear your favorite rugged threads, if you love fashion then amp up the style - this session is all about capturing your love and your story which means it should be chock full of your personalities.
+ For the ladies: when choosing an outfit, choose articles that flatter your figure plus accentuate features that you love about yourself.
+ For the men: help your lady out and let her help you. If she's going for a certain look, work to coordinate your colors/patterns.
+ Go for a look you'll love years down the road.
+ Make sure to pack appropriately for the location you choose and bring extra socks/shoes if we're hiking or if the weather isn't ideal!
Look and Feel Your Best
A few ideas that can help you prep and take away the stress of getting ready.
+Set your intentions - this may sound a bit aloof to some but I want to encourage you to intentionally choose your attitude for your day and your time together. It will make all the difference - especially if you’ve had a rough week leading up to your session. Choose to focus on each other and take time together away from everything else that requires your attention.
+ Get some shut eye! Make sure to rest up the night before and drink water to hydrate + have your skin love you the day of.
+ Eat before your session! You'll feel better and your body will be nourished, which leaves you more relaxed.
+ Reminding you again to wear what makes you feel good!
+ Splurge on hair and makeup or plan your wedding hair and makeup trials the day of your session (you'll get to see what it looks like on camera before the wedding and it's sure to make getting ready easy!) I myself rarely wear anything beyond mascara, but a bit of makeup + lashes can even out skin tones, make your eyes pop, and have you feeling confident and sexy.
+ Guys: get a fresh cut and trim/style your beard. Roosters in Denver is like a man spa that provides beer/soda and warm eucalyptus towels + a scalp massage - this type of treat isn’t just for the ladies!
+ Clean your ring and underneath your fingernails or go get your nails done! Let's show off that ring!
Things to Bring
This is a list of a few things you may need or may want to have along the way. I will have a first aid kit and I’m certified in BLS/CPR/FIRST AID along with being an ER nurse. This list all depends on the location you choose and is more specifically geared towards outdoor hiking engagements.
+YOUR DOG! They are a big part of your life and always welcome, much less they’re usually the most stoked to join!
+ Appropriate or extra shoes and socks if you plan on changing into something along the way. Going barefoot in a dress once you're up there? YES PLEASE!
+ WATER, Bug Spray, Sun Screen, Chapstick, Headlamp, Rain Jacket, Small Day Pack/Back Pack, ect. I usually have these items as well but do not forget your WATER or a filter if we’re heading in for a long hike.
+ Any touch up makeup/extra hair ties and bobby pins.
+Bring things that you want to enjoy together - Mountain bikes? yes. Brews to share? yes. Champagne to pop? no brainer. Picnic or charcuterie board? of course, and I can bring a blanket if needed! This session is truly all about you two so make it your own! Along with taking beautiful photos of you two exploring the area, I also want to allow space and time for you two to simply enjoy soaking this season in with one another. Think of this section of the guide as a question of “What do we want to do on this adventure together?” Bring those necessary items to make that adventure happen.
What to Expect
This is the fun part! We'll walk/hike around, get to know one another, and I will guide you two in a variety of way to interact and focus on each other. You can expect me to prompt you to be present by giving you topics of memories and thoughts to share. I'll also give bits of light direction to create active movement and interaction as you explore the area. I may also let you wander off while I walk around capturing authentic moments that are unguided and unposed. You'll find yourselves focused on each other while taking in the surroundings and the adventure you're on vs feeling awkward in front of my camera.
+After our time together you can expect sneak peeks within 72 hours and your photos within 2-6 weeks.
+Plan your session far enough in advance to where you have ample time to design and send out save the dates and wedding invitations so you aren't rushed.
Then, GO on a Date!
You're all dressed up, you feel good, and you just had an incredible adventure with your best friend - go celebrate, love on one another, and treat yourselves!
A Few of my Favorite Locations <3
+ Colorado
(all of this beautiful state but more specifically)
Sapphire Point near Frisco, Colorado
Snake River Inlet outside of Summit Cove, Colorado
Prospector Campground area near Summit Cove, Colorado (The best lake views!)
Gold Hill in Breckenridge, Colorado
The Colorado Trail offshoots (Peaks Trail, Miner’s Creek, etc.)
Blue Lakes near Quandary Mountain outside of Breckenridge, Colorado
Buffalo Mountain Trails near Silverthorne, Colorado
Loveland Pass near Keystone, Colorado
Mayflower Gulch near Copper, Colorado
Blue Lakes in Telluride, Colorado
Island Lake and Ice Lake near Telluride, Colorado
San Sophia Overlook in Telluride, Colorado
Leadville, Colorado. All of its mining trails, epic views - hello Hagerman Pass!, and City on a Hill Coffee of course.
+ Utah
(seriously though, what's not to love?)
Climbing on Potash Road of Kane Creek Canyon in Moab, Utah
Castle Valley outside of Moab, Utah (Fischers Towers and the Mesas!)
Indian Creek South of Moab, Utah in the Canyonlands District
Lake Powell with swimming, canyons, cliff jumping, secret coves, and more.
Marlboro Point near Moab, Utah
Mystic Hot Springs near Monroe, Utah