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
01.
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
Brown's island is a great choice if you'd like the James River in the background of your photos, or really gorgeous brick buildings. There is water, tons of trees, and architecture. The perfect mix.
brown's island in richmond
Oak Grove park is lined with trees and water. People often run along the trails here. It's a great spot for tons of greenery and a nice neutral background.
oak grove park in chesapeake
If you're into mountain photos but not into hiking, Raven's Roost is a great spot. This incredible rocky overlook is located steps from a parking lot. It looks like we took a hike, but that will be our secret.
Ravens roost overlook in Lyndhurst
This spot has everything you need for a beachy vibe. Sand, tufts of grass, and water. The water is very shallow so it makes for great photos even when you want to step in it.
brock environmental center in va beach
The Virginia Museum of Fine Art has really cool installations to take photos near. It also has a garden area up their waterfall stairs and absolutely gorgeous architecture complete with white columns in the back area.
VMFA in Richmond
Forest Hill Park is another neutral favorite. It has a really nice brick house and tons of green and trees to take photos. We'll go on a walk through the forest area to find more water and hidden strairs.
forest hill park in richmond
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:
04.
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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