Engagement Session FAQ
1. Why should we do an engagement session?
Engagement sessions are done with Andrew or Marianne, and are not only about capturing beautiful imagery (great for Save the Dates and wedding websites!), but more importantly, the session provides an opportunity for us to get to know one another and grow comfortable together. As your wedding photographers, we are the only vendors who are with you from the start of your wedding day until the very end. Your wedding day is full of intimate moments, and it is important that you feel yourself while we are photographing.
2. When should we schedule our engagement session?
For a larger selection of dates to choose from, we recommend scheduling your session at least two months in advance. We currently reserve Tuesday and Thursday evenings for sessions, but are also happy to accomodate another day of the week if our schedule allows.
3. What time does our engagement session start?
Your engagement session will begin about 90 minutes before sunset. We are natural light photographers and choose to schedule sessions during the "golden hour" for beautiful, even light.
4. How long is the engagement session?
The session is one hour long.
5. How many images do we receive?
You will receive 40+ images from your engagement session. We will digitally deliver the images via an online gallery. You are able to share this gallery with your friends and family, and also download the images straight from the gallery!
6. When do we receive our engagement session images?
The images will be delivered within 6 weeks of your session.
7. Do you have any location recommendations?
Natural light is most important when choosing a location, and there are plenty of great options in the Chicagoland area (some places in Chicago do require a photo permit). If you would like photos at a private establishment, we kindly request that you get permission from the owner. As the engagement session is about 1 hour, we recommend sticking to one location. For winter sessions, we recommend choosing an indoor location, unless it is warmer than 50 degrees.
• Chicago Botanic Garden (permit required)
• Lincoln Park Zoo
• Lincoln Park Conservatory (permit required)
• Montrose Harbor
• North Pond
• Garfield Park Conservatory (permit required)
• Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool (permit required)
• Promontory Point
• Art Institute (entrance fee)
• Morton Arboretum (permit required)
8. Can we do our session outside of the Chicagoland area?
If you live outside of Illinois, or just have a special place in mind that is out of town, we can definitely travel. We'd love to explore a new place with you! For sessions outside of Illinois, our travel expenses (hotel and transportation) will be added to your photography investment. For sessions within 3 hours of Chicago, a travel fee will be added to your photography investment to cover transportation and time.
9. What if the location we choose requires a photo permit?
The photo permit must be obtained prior to your scheduled engagement session. Usually, we've seen that permits have to be requested from the establishment at least 2 weeks in advance. Please bring a copy of your permit to your session.
10. What should we wear?
Dress your best and dress comfortable! We want you to feel comfortable in your clothing so that you look comfortable and at ease in your photos. We recommend choosing outfits that compliment one another in color. Lay both of your outfits on on the floor/bed ahead of time and see how they look together. Here is an outfit inspiration board to help you get started. When you choose an outfit, we ask that you stay away from any distracting text or logos. We want the focus to be on you throughout the session! Neutral and solid colors are always a safe choice. Ladies, bring comfortable shoes if your session involves a lot of walking. This way, you can take off the heals if need be. If you are bringing a change of clothes or any personal items, please pack them in a backpack so that we can help carry them and be hands free while we continue to photograph you.
11. Is it okay to bring more than one outfit?
We are happy to photograph you in more than one outfit. Just keep in mind that depending on your session location, there might not be a bathroom to change in.
12. What happens if we are late?
Please arrive on time. Remember to give yourself plenty of time to get ready, account for traffic, and park. This will avoid any potential stress, as we desire for your session to be relaxed and full of joy! Our sessions are scheduled around light, and if the session begins late, it will unfortunately be shorter.
13. Can we reschedule our session?
If you have an emergency, or there is serious, inclement weather, please contact us as soon as possible and we can absolutely reschedule your session! If the session needs to be rescheduled for any other reason, there is an incurred fee. When we schedule your session, we are setting aside the evening for you and are unable to offer it to another couple. Thank you for understanding!