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 phots 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 sarah@sarahbottaphotography.com so I can secure your date in my calendar.
scheduling
01.
While I photograph most engagement sessions between April and late November, sessions can take place all year. Most of my couples choose a season based on their desired engagement session location.
Spring/Summer: bring makeup and a towel to stay fresh . Also bring bug spray!
Fall: sessions can only take place during weekdays.
Winter: your session could begin as 2:30pm. Dress in layers. Bring extra makeup and tissues for runny noses.
things to keep in mind
No matter the season, Long Branch Farm's grounds are stunning! There are mountain views, horses, beautiful flowers, pond, and more! There is no permit or fees needed for this location. Sessions must take place during weekdays.
LONG BRANCH FARM, boyce, va
This park is tucked away in Leesburg giving you all the secret garden vibes. The stunning gardens, landscaping, pool, and architecture is perfect for your session. There is a $250 permit needed for this location.
MORVEN PARK, LEESBURG, VA
This experimental farm grows all kinds of trees and flowers making it a gorgeous location for engagement sessions. Not to mention this place is huge with 700 acres! Even better there is no fee or permit required to use the park for photos or for parking.
State Arboretum of Virginia, BOYCE, VA
Unique garden location located in Leesburg. This location does require a $125 photography permit paid directly to Oatlands.
OATLANDS HISTORIC HOUSE AND GARDEN
DC offers such a unique look! From the monuments to the Tidal Basin. To avoid crowds, it's best to plan for a sunrise session. This location requires a $140 NPS Permit and $250 travel fee.
washington dc
Still not sure? Here is a list of additional locations picturesque for your engagement session. Please note that a few do require permits/ fees. Great Marsh Estate, Tudor Place, Washington National Cathedral, Marker Miller Orchard, Old Town Alexandria.
other locations
best for: fall, winter
best for: fall, winter
best for: spring, summer, fall
best for: fall, winter
best for: spring
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.
NORDSTROM (FOR HIM)
H&M (FOR HIM)
JCREW (FOR HIM)
Morning Lavender (for her)
lulu's (for her)
baltic born (for her)
Sometimes knowing where to shop can be a challenge. Below are a few of my favorites.
where to shop
04.
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 things you can do to elevate your engagement photos:
trust me as your expert photographer
relax, have fun, and just be you
It's totally normal to feel a little nervous before your engagement session. I even get a bit nervous before having my own photos taken! 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:
05.
bring a bouquet
Absolutely! If the weather is raining, super cold, etc. we can reschedule. I want your engagement session to be filled with gorgeous light and for us to create timeliness images you love to look at.
06. what if weather is bad? Can we reschedule?
Generally, I begin sessions about 2-3 hours before sunset. This gives us that gorgeous lighting you see in my images. Sessions are typically about an hour or 1.5 hours with an outfit change.
05. wHAT TIME OF DAY ARE ENGAGEMENT SESSIONS TAKEN?
100% yes! I love when couples bring their dog. I recommend having a friend tag along your engagement session to help with your dog while it's photos of just the two of you.
04. Can I bring my dog to the engagement session for photos?
Plan to have your engagement session 6-8 months before your wedding if you plan to use images from our session on your save-the-dates.
03. When should we send out save-the-dates?
I feel this to my core!! My husband loathes having his photos taken so I've found ways to help make it less painful for him and I'll do the same for your fiance.
02. my fiance hates having photos taken? How can you help?
I’ll guide you through the entire process with “poses” that are super easy and natural.
01. We have never had our photos taken, can you help with posing?
Have a question about your engagement session? I've got an answer! If you don't see your question, email sarah@sarahbottaphotography.com.
FAQs
06.