session details, tips, and answers
engagement session
It's best to schedule your engagement session 6–8+ months before your wedding, especially if you're wanting to use your photos as Save The Dates. Each season offers a unique backdrop for gorgeous photos – even winter! The session's time of day will depend on the season and location and will be finalized at booking.
When you're ready to schedule your 1-hour session, please email at cs@cschmidtphoto.com so I can secure your date in my calendar.
scheduling
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There are countless landmarks, buildings, parks, and more around Richmond and Virginia areas that can accommodate your engagement session. I highly recommend picking a spot that's special to you and your fiancé. Over the years, I've been to dozens of locations with couples. Select 'next' to view my top engagement sessions locations.
From the large fountain to the Italian Garden, Maymont is a beautiful engagement photo spot. It's especially beautiful during the spring when all the flowers are in bloom. Maymont has tons of opportunity for a gorgeous photo-op.
Maymont park in richmond
My favorite streets include Monument Avenue and Grove Street. I'd live in one of those areas if I had the choice! There are beautiful homes lining these streets full of unique architecture, making for a great backdrop for your engagement photos.
the fan in downtown richmond
Libby Hill Park has an amazing overlook of the city of Richmond, especially during golden hour. If you want something representative of Richmond, this is the spot to do it. There are also tons of flowers and green during spring time.
libby hill park in church hill
This location is so versatile! From the grassy areas to the light colored and arch filled architecture, you can't go wrong. This photographs beautifully on a sunny day.
VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS
If you're looking for a classier, editorial vibe, we can collaborate on what indoor location would work best! From a few of my favorite hotel spots to local cocktail lounges, I can guide you on the best fit.
INDOORS WITH AN EDITORIAL VIBE
Right in the heart of Richmond City. The Virginia State Capitol is a gorgeous area with large white pillars and stunning architecture. Completely free to the public to shoot there, there's large grassy areas, multiple buildings to choose from, and a lot of floral areas in the spring.
VIRGINIA STATE CAPITOL
Belle Isle is a beautiful mixture of greenery, water, and gorgeous landscape. We can get a mix of open fields, some industrial vibes, and get really into nature when we hit the rocks. Perfect with a flowy dress or a more outdoorsy couple.
BELLE ISLE IN RICHMOND
You've built a home together, and spend some of your best moments just hanging out. Capture some of your favorite memories right by your couch. These sessions are cozy and warm.
IN YOUR HOME
If your wedding venue allows you to take your engagement photos there, I say do it! They will match the aesthetic of your wedding photos and we'll get to know the venue together.
your wedding venue
best for: fall, winter
best for: all seasons
best for: all seasons
best for: fall, winter
best for: all seasons
best for: all seasons
best for: all seasons
best for: spring, summer
don't forget the weather
no bright or neon colors
avoid bold patterns
when in doubt, go neutral
accent with accessories
use complimentary colors
Picking your outfit color palette and planning your outfits for your engagement session is the first (and most important) step in creating gorgeous photos! While you should consider the weather, it's best to be comfortable and confident in what you wear. I've collected some do's and don'ts for picking out your outfit, along with some outfit inspiration from previous couples.
outfit inspiration
03.
take advantage of a hair/makeup trial
get a manicure for close-up shots
clean your engagement ring
Pampering yourself is always a great idea, right?! Although not necessary, there are a few to-dos that will elevate your engagement photos:
trust me as your expert photographer
relax, have fun, and just be you
There's absolutely no reason to worry about your session. I like to look at your session as a way to get to know each other and have some fun! As you approach your session, keep in mind these 2 things:
session tips:
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There is NO need to be nervous at all! I photograph people who are "nervous" almost every day! We have so much fun at the engagement session, it's basically like we're just friends hanging out. I pose you for everything, no thinking needed.
06. what if we're nervous in front of the camera?
Yes! I HIGHLY recommend you print these photos! We can get together and create an album to either keep for yourselves or gift to your in-laws. Prints can be purchased directly through your gallery.
05. should i get an heirloom album or prints?
You'll receive between 60 and 70 edited photos from your hour long engagement session. These photos will be delivered to you through an online gallery via email.
04. how many photos should we expect?
You don't have an engagement shoot on just any day. Hair and makeup is a wonderful choice and you should be able to do a trial run for your wedding on shoot day.
03. should i get my hair and makeup done?
You can pick out a location from what is mentioned above or you can let me know the vibe you're going for. Then I can recommend a few specific places.
02. how do we know where to shoot?
All of my engagement sessions are a one hour session. My couples usually bring a dressy and casual outfit. Additional time.+ locations can be added on.
01. What does your engagement session come with?
Have a question about your engagement session? I've got an answer! And if you don't see your question here, please reach out via email: cs@cschmidtphoto.com.
FAQs
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