Reasons to do an Engagement Session | Seventh Arrow Studio

Hey all to my future brides,

You’ve probably done your homework and are looking at a few different photographers to capture your special day. Emailing back and forth with their website looking at the different pricing and packages. Ever wonder why engagement sessions are included as complimentary in wedding package? Well, as a photographer that offers an engagement session with most every package, I can tell you why we love these sessions and why we do this.

When is the last time that you were in front of the camera? Not your phone, but a professional camera? You probably answered “Um, high school photos.” Yeah, me too. The last time your had pro photos was probably around 5-10 years ago and the high school senior session, where you were embarking on a new world and college. If you are anything like me, you probably have changed a lot since those photos. Am I right? Since then, you’ve probably have graduated college, you have a job, you have a fiancé. You probably are a complete different person. Not to mention your fiancé is in the same boat as you. Having an engagement session or even a couples session together is a bomb time to frankly just be in front of the camera together and learn.

Cameras are scary. I for one hate having my picture taken, I’m always nervous that I won’t look great in photos. I. feel. you. there. But the only way to get over that fear is to be in front of the camera more and with a great photographer. During a session, you and your photographer get to see what poses and what works with you and fiancé before the wedding day. Showing up on your wedding day with no clue of how you and fiancé work together as a couple in front of the camera makes you feel awkward no matter what. And trust me, its the same for the photographers. By the time we really get into the groove of things on the day, its time to move on to the reception. We, as photographers, like to push things creatively and there needs to be a trust there between us, so the session is really good for building that trust. Super important.

“My fiancé hates photos” A good 90% of people hate having their photos taken. I get this all the time and there is no need for you to feel bad about it or not do something that is outside of your comfort zone. But that’s just it right? You haven’t been in front of a professional photographer in what, 5-10 years, and most of the time its not a wedding photographer and their main job is to photograph couples and make couples feel good in front of the camera. Almost forgetting that they are being photographed. How would you know after that much time that you won’t like it? Most of the time, the fiancé leaves the session really happy and saying ”hey, that wasn’t so bad” and “I actually had a great time.” Thats a win and I know that I doing my job well.

We do have some “games” and prompts that bring out the best laughs and the best sides of each other during these sessions. its more a conversation that is documented for you, rather then just looking at the camera and just smiling. We are going to drawn things on cheeks, scream out our favorite swear words, pretending to be drunk and holding each other up, laying in creeks or fields and just overall get to know a little bit more about each other. you may even learn something about your fiancé that you didn’t even know yourself. its very interesting what you learn during these types of sessions. Also, it is the best way to release all the nerves and get comfortable with all the pda.

And since you’ll be all dolled up, you can go out for a hot date afterward! #winning Sometimes when you’re in the thick of wedding planning, one of the last things on your mind is making special time for a date night! Maybe even going to the restaurant where your first date was and have a celebration of all you have been through and cheers to the next phase, the wedding. You get to savor that sweet feeling of the “engagement phase” little bit longer!

Down the road, are you wanting a family? If the answer is yes then this may be your last session as a couple. Weird to think about, but its very true. Next portraits you do could be your maternity session or as a family.

Overall, trying new things is scary, but trying an engagement session will let us have a relationship on your wedding day. We are going to be spending a lot of time together on your day. I’m with you for 8+ hours, helping you and guiding you to the next phase of the day. There needs to be the trust and a good relationship between you and you're photographer. Plus, who doesn’t like the amazing photos that you get after to show off how good you look together to your friends and family. Maybe you can take the photos and use them at your wedding! Win, win, win in my book. :-)

Hopefully we will see you for your session soon!

What You Need to Know Before Your Couple Shoot

Couples shoots and engagement sessions are always a blast, but I’ll be the first to admit that they can seem intimidating if you’ve never done one before and to be honest, that’s one of the reasons we include them in most of our wedding packages that we offer to our couples. You might be wondering what to expect, what to wear, how to pose, any number of things. I am here to reassure you that we at Seventh Arrow will make sure that your shoot goes smoothly and that you have as much information as possible before arriving. I’ve compiled a few helpful tips to put you at ease and ensure that you have an enjoyable and memorable experience.

Come prepared

If you’re reading this blog post, you’re already on your way to being prepared for shoot day! Knowing what to expect is the simplest way to quell nerves and build confidence. I recommend that you make a list of everything you need to bring, wear, and do for the shoot day so when you arrive you are calm and ready to get started. Don’t worry at all, we will walk you through all of it in this blog!

When thinking about what to bring, consider what items you want in the photos, such as a second outfit, personal accessories, or props to help you and your partner tell your story. For some couples this is a food you both love, a special bottle of wine, or even your beloved pet! If you do want your pet included in the shoot, however, just make sure to bring someone to watch your furry friend when they are not in the shot. I always bring a blanket of some sort for you, but its always good to see your blanket in photos then have that memory with that blanket while you both are snuggled up on the couch with it.

Choosing a Location

It is really important that you feel comfortable with the location and that it “feels like you” If you have location that is near and dear to your story, please don’t hesitate to tell me about it. I am true believer in telling your story in a way that is meaningful to the two of you but also remember that the session is about you as a couple and not where you are.

If you need help with deciding on a location and are in Buffalo, feel free to head to my blog for location suggestions above.

Look good & feel good

A lot of my brides choose to get their hair and makeup done professionally before their session. If you do choose to go this route, make sure that you schedule your glam early enough in the day that you can relax and enjoy it without rushing to get to the shoot on time. Smaller details are also super important, like having manicured nails to show off your ring or making sure you have the right socks to match your outfit. I recommend setting out both your clothes and accessories a day or two before the session to make sure you have everything you need.

In terms of what to wear, the most important thing is that you feel comfortable in your clothes. Wear something you feel good in that lets your personality shine through. I love to offer the opportunity for an outfit change halfway through the session; it allows us to get a few different looks and feels within the session while maximizing our time together. Many couples opt for one dressier option and one more casual option. You may need to change in your car depending on where we’re shooting, so just be prepared for the adventure! Don’t worry, we will stand guard!

Best colors or combos: Emerald Green really goes with anything, maroon for the guys, light blue and yellow, grey, navy and white, black with black (be sure to match your blacks), white and black (wanna really spice things up try bride in black and groom in white)

To help with outfit choices we have made a Pinterest board with direct links to the outfit piece that you can look at and get an idea of what looks colors and outfits work best in front of the camera

Be present

It’s normal to get caught up in your own head, especially when you’re in a situation that may be new or unfamiliar to you. Being the center of attention can be nerve-wracking, and you may start thinking things like “does my hair look okay?” or “is this a good angle for me?” However, if you start focusing on looking perfect or nailing every pose, you’re going to end up looking uncomfortable and stiff in your photos. The best way to look and feel natural is to simply take a deep breath and let it happen. Focus on how comfortable it feels to be with your partner, and allow yourself to enjoy this experience you’re having together. Your session is an opportunity to capture the special bond you have as a couple, so just focus on that and I’ll take care of the rest.

Trust your photographer

When I say I’ll take care of the rest, I mean it! If you show up prepared and relaxed then all that’s left is to let me work my magic. My job is to direct you in a way that helps you relax, feel natural, and be your true comfortable self in front of my lens. You don’t need to practice poses, study Pinterest pins, or overthink how you look. Again, it’s normal to be nervous, but rest assured that I will make sure that the end result is something you love.

If you have any questions, ask!

I want to do everything I can to make your session the best experience possible, so if you have any questions that I haven’t covered in this post please reach out! All questions are valid, and chances are someone else has probably asked me the same one before. As your photographer I am here to put you at ease and will do whatever I can to help you in your preparations.

xoxo, Seventh Arrow

If you would like to book a session and haven’t already, you can view our availability

10 Tips to Take the Stress Out of Family Photoshoots

Plan.

Deciding on a time

Does anyone check the sunset times…well we are constantly check for close to a year out. We love the golden light or golden hour sessions. This happens an hour or two before the sunsets. If you want to have a family session in July, its going to be much (almost 9 pm) later then April or October. We suggest trying to book your sessions as close to golden hour as possible to make sure you get the warm magical light.

Location is important

We want you to feel as natural as possible at your session, so pick somewhere that is “you” Whether it be a favorite park or a favorite beach or your backyard even. Those make for the best sessions. I did put together another blog in regards to locations in Western New York for my engagement sessions, you can take a look here.

Decide what to wear

The biggest misconception that clients have when they book a family photoshoot is that everyone’s outfits need to match. While it is important for the outfits not to clash, the photo will actually be more interesting if the colors and styles are varied. A foolproof tip for dressing your whole family for a photoshoot is to stick to jewel tones that are universally flattering and remain in the “neutral” family. Blacks, whites, grey, dark greens, beige…etc

In terms of clothing style, we recommend choosing pieces that are comfortable, well-fitting, and classic. Photo sessions often require a decent amount of moving around and trying different poses, so it’s best to wear something comfortable and breathable. For women, we love maxi dresses, jumpsuits, or cozy sweaters in the colder months. For men, comfortable attire can include casual button-downs or pullovers, to give a few examples. Comfortable footwear is also important, but it’s best to steer clear of anything too casual like athletic sneakers and nothing flashy and mismatched to your outfit choice

Lastly, your outfit choices should be classic, meaning that they are pieces that will not go out of style. Of course, we love a modern take on a classic outfit, whether that be by layering, adding pops of color, or mixing textures like knits and lace.

Choose accessories

Note that outfits are incomplete without accessories such as belts, shoes, jewelry, etc - make sure you have those pieces picked out and set aside as well to avoid panic on photoshoot day. 

Make it a family outing!

Bring blankets, activities that your family loves, picnic baskets, food, wine…anything that makes your family your family. It’s important to have something “to do” instead of just looking and smiling at the camera for the full time. Make it fun!

Lay out the outfits

At this point, you will be thanking yourself for having chosen and stored away outfits far in advance. Lay the clothes and accessories out one last time and iron/steam if needed. 

Double check packed bags

Add anything else you might need, or anything perishable that could not be added in advance. This may include snacks, medication, or items like pacifiers to keep your kids happy in between shots. 

Go to bed early

Getting a good night’s sleep is helpful any night of the week, but is especially important the night before a photoshoot. This means getting any showers/ baths out of the way in the early evening, trying on outfits one last time. Doing so ensures that you wake up looking and feeling fresh and energized, and will help you and the entire family get the most out of your shoot!

Relax and have fun!

Because you’ve spent so much time preparing in the days and weeks leading up to the shoot, the actual day should be a breeze! All you have to do now is make sure everyone has a nutritious breakfast (before getting dressed, to avoid last-minute stains!) and load everyone into the car. Kids love seeing there parents have fun with them but also their parents having fun! Don’t be afraid to get silly.

MOST IMPORTANTLY! Embrace the chaos and trust your photographer!

Trust us, we know when in a new place kids tend to have their own agenda, especially if pets are involved. That is completely fine, some of the best memories are in those moments and I can guarantee you they will make you the most happy when you get the photos back. Most of the time, the kids are looking and the parents are looking at the kids to make sure that they are smiling, the second you look up, they are looking at a squirrel haha! So make sure that you are looking at the camera and we will worry about what the kids are doing. Trust us, we have some pretty awesome tricks up are sleeves!

You made the investment in family photos, so to be prepared is the best way of making sure that things run smooth. We hope this guide will help you prepare for the best photoshoot.

Locations for Sessions in WNY

It is really important that you feel comfortable with the location and that it “feels like you” I am true believer in telling your story in a way that is meaningful to the two of you but also remember that the session is about you as a couple and not where you are. In the meantime, here is a updated list with photos that we have put together to help you make a informed decision of the locations that are available for us around Western New York. If you have location that is near and dear to your story, please don’t hesitate to tell me about it.

Art Gallery (Buffalo, NY)

Closed till 2022 for construction. Unfortunately we cannot shoot till then. :-(

Akron Falls

must be willing to get wet and climb on rocks

Beaver Island State Park (Grand Island, NY)

Botanical Gardens

Burchfield Penny Park (West Seneca, NY)

Chestnut Ridge Park (Orchard Park, NY)

Around the City of Buffalo

(Buffalo City Hall, Canelside, and Main St)

Clarence Town Park

Ellicottville NY

Glen Falls (Williamsville, NY)

Hotel Henry (Buffalo, NY)

Hoyt Lake/Rose Garden/Delaware Park (Buffalo, NY)

Japanese Gardens (Buffalo, NY)

Knox Farms (East Aurora, NY)

Somewhere around Lockport

Lasson Park (Depew, NY)

Letchworth State Park

Ollcott Beach (Ollcott, NY)

Outer Habor (Buffalo, NY)

includes - Sand dunes, under passes, wilkinson point, gallagher pier and tifft nature preserve

Random Fields

no, we are serious. You and I drive by these places everyday!

Riverworks (Buffalo, NY)

Train Depots (Williamsville and Blasdell)

Parking Garage Sessions

Photographed by Amanda and Sarah