NYC Engagement Session Tips
H
ow to Make Your Photos Feel Like You
Let's be real: most people don't love being in front of a camera. If the thought of your engagement session makes you a little nervous, you're not alone. But here's the thing: the couples who end up with the most beautiful, natural-feeling photos aren't the ones who are the most photogenic. They're the ones who showed up prepared, relaxed, and ready to spend time together. That's it.
Here's everything you need to know before your NYC engagement session so you can skip the stress and get straight to the good part.
Pick a time of day that works with the light
This one matters more than most people realize. The best light for photos happens twice a day: in the hour after sunrise and the hour or two before sunset (golden hour). Midday light in New York City can be harsh, casting shadows that can be tough to work with. Golden hour is always going to give you the warmest, softest results. Though if you’re open to embracing a bit of city edge, harsh light can be artistic too! If you're an early riser, a sunrise session in the city before the crowds show up means you’ll basically have the whole place to yourselves. Don’t be deterred from sunset though, that’s my personal fav and truly has a special glow. Plus you can lean into more activites during evening time, like grabbing a slice of pizza, a drink, etc!
Think about what to wear intentionally
You don't need to go out and buy something new, but it's worth putting some thought into this one. A few things that always work well: wear something you actually feel good in, not just something that photographs well on someone else. Coordinate with your partner without being too matchy-matchy (think complementary colors rather than identical outfits). Avoid busy patterns and large logos, which can be distracting in photos. And please, wear comfortable shoes, especially if you're shooting somewhere with cobblestones or lots of walking. Nothing sucks more than blistered feet. If you want to bring heels, bring a comfy pair of shoes with! Choosing an outfit that fits the vibe is always a good move too. One last note, if you’re going to be in a park, avoid green so that you don’t blend with your surroundings.
Let yourself forget the camera is there
This is easier said than done, but here's how to actually make it happen. Talk to each other during the session. Tell each other something you haven't said yet that day. Walk somewhere together like you're just going for a stroll, not like you're being photographed. Laugh at the awkward moments (because there may be awkward moments, totally normal) but honestly it can make for the best photos. The goal is to be so present with each other that the camera becomes background noise. That's where the magic is.
It also helps to spend the first 15 minutes or so just warming up. Don't expect to feel totally natural right out of the gate. Give yourself some time to settle in and trust that it gets easier. Plus, we’ll be there guiding you the whole way :)
Get the logistics sorted ahead of time
A few things worth thinking through before the day: have a rough idea of where you want your session to be and share any location inspo with your photographer ahead of time. Think about parking or transit if you're going somewhere less central. If your session is in a park, check whether a permit is required (some NYC parks do require them for professional photography). Eat something beforehand so you're not hungry and distracted. And give yourself a buffer because running late adds stress, and stress can show up in photos.
The engagement session is also a great chance to get comfortable with your photographer before the wedding day, so treat it like that. The more you enjoy it, the more it'll show!
