Engagement sessions are fun! It is a wonderful excuse for the two of you to snuggle, laugh, and just get to spend time together. All while getting a feel for how the photo process works and what it is like to be photographed by me. Some of my favorite locations to photograph engagement sessions are Portland Head Light, Biddeford Pool, Fortunes Rock, Mackworth Island, Broadturn Farm and those are just the southern Maine spots!
It is recommended that you have your hair and makeup professionally done—it is a great excuse for a trial run or a much-needed trim. Adding props into your photos can be a fun way to provide some personal insight into a relationship. When used in moderation, props can add an engaging element to your shoot through additional storytelling. Think of props as an element of design used to bring the shoot together, by tying together a theme. Personal props generally have special significance or reflect your lives together, like a vintage car or Vespa scooter. Creative or cute props are used with the intention of adding whimsy and flair to the shoot. They are similar to wedding details; they show off your taste. They are best if they are supporting an action (picnic basket, coffee, or a game) the act of movement and doing things with the props makes engagement sessions so much more romantic and real.
Ideas for your engagement session
Local Fair
In the summer and early fall Maine has a variety of agricultural fairs. The best known is probably the Commonground Fair and the Fryeburg Fair. You could share a messy delicious treat, play with the farm animals, or ride on the rides. There is no lack of something fun to explore and do. Such a fun place with tons of colors.
Color Run or Inflatable 5k Runs
Maybe full on sweat isn’t your game for your engagement session but these two races are all about the fun not the time. You can play in the bounce houses or get sprayed multiple times. An awesome opportunity for a fun hands on engagement session.
Sail Boat Cruise
You can do sunset cruises in Portland on a gorgeous schooner. It would be an absolute dream engagement session. There are so many fun options on a boat, and you get a romantic sight-seeing cruise!
Skiing
If you are a winter lover this might be for you. You can suit up for some spring skiing (so you don’t have to wear as many clothes) and get photos all over the mountains in Maine. Sunday River is the closer of the two major ski mountains to where I live so that is the preferably option. Then maybe some hot coco at one of the outside firepits, or a beer in the lodge.
Old Orchard Beach
Old Orchard Beach- Don’t knock it until you try it. I adore this ghetto little town in the summer. My recommendation would be my dream date…. playing in the arcade, walking their pier and beach, and having a slice of the best local pizza. Also, we could take a trip on the gondola! Such a basic bitch engagement session.
Hiking
Lets do it! I sweat a ton, but I promise I am in shape. NH has so many incredible views and hikes! Or we could hit up the Mount Washington Hotel…maybe for some lunch after our hike? Bring a change of clothes in your bag and lets enjoy all the views! Also, an excellent option would be drive to the top of Mount Battie or Cadillac Mountain and pack a picnic.
Pub Crawl
Portland is full of amazing breweries and so many delicious restaurants. This would include the classic cobblestone streets, and the downtown coastal charm while still interacting. Just a low key no expectations kind of session. I promise I can make you smile and relax.
Sunrise Session
I know it sounds early but that is the point. There will be no people watching, and the colors will be beautiful. The light dreamy over the ocean. Then we can get breakfast after! (my fav meal)
