Hey everyone, thanks for coming back to our blog! Today, I’m going to share a behind-the-scenes recap of a recent engagement shoot in Virginia Beach at First Landing State Park https://www.first-landing-state-park.org. I’m also going to list a couple pointers for couples and photographers that I hope will help kickstart some new things for you all!
The Couple
I had the pleasure of working with David and Isabelle. They have a common interest in hiking and exploring the outdoors. This helped narrow down where the location of the shoot would take place. We went to where David proposed!
The Location
First Landing State Park offers a variety of backdrops for a photoshoot. We mainly selected the area we were at within the park specifically because of the Spanish moss-covered trees. I thought it contributed in adding a touch of mystery and romance to some of the photos. Later, we moved to the shore, where the water and sandy beach gave us a completely different vibe. It helped that there were some fallen trees to sit on to embrace different posing. This area was open so it was much more windy! Wind is something you have to work with, it usually won’t work with you haha. However, capturing any kind of movement can make a photo feel more alive, so I have learned to appreciate it. We ended the photoshoot in an open parking lot by a nature trail.
The Outfits
David and Isabelle brought two outfits for the shoot. The first outfit was a little more dressy which we started with by the moss and the shore. Isabelle’s dress was flowy, and it worked nice with the wind. David wore a button up and khaki pants.
The second was casual, perfect for some playful moments in the parking lot and wandering through the trail to get some natural, candid shots. This is where we incorporated their shared hobby of hiking. They matched wearing flannel shirts and their hiking boots – I thought it was a cute touch!
Incorporating Personal Elements
During the shoot, it’s good to have conversation. You can ask couples questions about their relationship such as where they met, had their first date, how the proposal went down, or what activities they enjoy together. These conversations not only help me connect with the couple but also inspire creative ideas for the shoot. It’s these personal touches that make a photoshoot unique and meaningful. For example, there’s a few photos where I played off an idea to tie Isabelle’s engagement ring with the shoestrings of her hiking boots. It was kind of “Cinderella-like” and honestly very fitting to the down-to-earth and beautiful person Isabelle is.
Experimenting with Double Exposure
We also had some fun experimenting with double exposure, a technique that involves combining two images into one. With my Canon 5D Mark IV, I can overlay one image on top of another in camera to create artistic effects. I used double exposure to blend scenery with a portrait or a close up detail shot. Because it was an overcast day, I thought it gave some of the photos a dreamy feel. It’s a creative way to add depth and intrigue to the final images. I try to challenge myself at least one way in each photoshoot. I haven’t utilized double exposure often, so it was a good creative excercise for me. The couple was also very patient and trusted what I was doing. You can’t rush creativity!
Now for the tips and pointers I promised! I thought I might help out photographers and couples who feel uninspired, at a dead end, or are just starting their engagement journey. These tips are designed to help you make the most out of your engagement shoot and ensure that the final images are both personal and memorable.
Tips for Photographers
- Get to Know the Couple: Take the time to learn about their story. Ask them about their hobbies, interests, where they met, and what they enjoy doing together. This information can inspire unique photo ideas that resonate with them.
- Plan an Activity: Consider incorporating an activity they both enjoy. Whether it’s a picnic, a stroll on the beach, or a simple coffee break, these moments can create opportunities for candid and intimate photos.
- Scout the Location: If possible, visit the shoot location beforehand. This allows you to identify the best spots for photos and plan for the lighting conditions during the shoot.
- Encourage Outfit Changes: Suggest that the couple bring at least two outfits—a casual one and a more formal one. This provides variety in the final images and allows for different themes in a single shoot.
- Challenge Yourself Creatively: Experiment!! Brainstorm ideas. Learn to be adaptable with weather, your subjects and other conditions around you. Break your routine. Maybe use a different lens. Try on camera flash. Utilize props. Slow down! I’ve found that slowing down helps me be more observant and aware. Taking my time also allows me to be aware of technicalities such as camera settings, distractions in the background, shadows, etc.
- Guide the Couple During the Shoot: Many couples may not be used to being in front of a camera, so guide them with simple poses and prompts. Encourage them to relax and be themselves. Sometimes the best shots come from candid moments. The photoshoot really is like one big date, and that’s how I encourage people to treat it as.
Tips for Newly Engaged Couples
- Find a Photographer You Connect With: Look for a photographer whose style matches your vision. Schedule a consultation to get to know them and see if you feel comfortable with them. The connection between the couple and the photographer can make a big difference.
- Think About Your Story: Reflect on the journey that brought you to this point. Consider locations, objects, or activities that have special meaning to you. Sharing this with your photographer can help them create a more personalized shoot.
- Don’t Overthink the Outfits: Choose outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable. Remember, the focus is on capturing your connection with each other. It’s okay to have one casual outfit and one formal outfit.
- Embrace Spontaneity: While it’s good to have some ideas in mind, don’t be afraid to go with the flow during the shoot. Some of the best moments are unplanned, and a relaxed attitude will result in more genuine photos.
- Communicate with Your Photographer: Let your photographer know if you have specific ideas or poses you’d like to try. At the same time, be open to their suggestions—they have experience in creating beautiful images.
- Approach It Like a Date: Treat your engagement shoot like a special date with your partner. Focus on enjoying each other’s company, and forget that there’s a camera around. This mindset will help you relax and be yourselves.
I hope these pointers help both photographers and couples make the most out of their engagement shoots. Remember, the key is to enjoy the moment and be yourselves. Thanks for joining me, and stay tuned for more photography insights and behind-the-scenes as an engagement and wedding photographer in Norfolk and Virginia Beach!!
If you’d like to see some of the photos from the day, I’ve shared a few of my favorites below. You can also view their album here: https://dnastudios.art/project/david-isabelle-engagement-photoshoot-norfolk-va/
Looking to book an engagement shoot in Virginia Beach area or wanting to learn more about DNA Studios? Connect with us! https://dnastudios.art/contact/
