Welcome
A NOTE ABOUT THIS GUIDE
I'm so excited to be working with you and I can’t wait for our time together during your engagement session! It’s normal to be a little nervous about your session. I always tell people that I still get nervous before having my photos taken with Tyler - and I do this for a living!
I'm a big fan of engagement sessions for a few reasons. First, they allow you to get comfortable in front of the camera. It takes time for most couples to warm up to being photographed and understand how I pose/direct. Timelines can be pretty tight on weddings days and 30 minutes may be all we have for portraits - which is why I’ve found that wedding day portraits turn out so much better when couples do engagement sessions ahead of time.
Second, you can showcase your personalities in a more casual setting that is significant to the two of you (and even include pets!). While they’re great for save-the-dates, I’ve taken engagement photos anywhere from 18 months in advance to a few weeks before the wedding.
There is a lot to think about when it comes to planning a session and since I get asked the same things over and over again, I thought it would be the most beneficial if I put together a guide that walks you through everything you need to know.
I’ll cover what to wear, location ideas, and more!
I totally get it. Having your picture taken for 1-2 hours might not be in your top-10 favorite things to do during your downtime! And at first you might feel sort of awkward being in front of the camera. I've honestly never had a couple not say that they feel nervous or explain how awkward they are before a session. But I think you’ll find that by the end of the session, it’s way easier than you thought, and you might even have a little fun!
The Guys
A NOTE TO
Engagement sessions can take place anywhere from immediately following a proposal to just a few days before the wedding. Most couples do 6-8 months prior to the wedding so they can use the images on their Save-The-Dates. I’ve found that there isn’t a “good” or “bad” time to take your photos. I normally plan sessions based on a particular “look” a couple has in mind, Spring flowers for example, or based on schedules.
Sessions typically last one to two hours and when I can—I love to begin sessions about two-three hours before sunset to achieve my signature look. Because I shoot film, and film loves light, I prefer to shoot when the sun is lower in the sky to avoid harsh shadows and bright sun patches but still bight enough to expose my film properly. The first one-two hours after sunrise is also an ideal time to shoot.
I schedule sessions during what I believe will be the best light of the day - which means that it’s super important to be on time. If you’re late to an evening session, we could run out of light before we’ve finished shooting and if your session takes place in the morning, the sun gets more harsh as it rises.
Is there a "good" time to take photos?
TIME & LIGHT
If your wedding is local, save-the-dates should be sent between 6 and 8 months before the wedding. For a destination wedding, you’ll want to send them out 8 to 10 months before the wedding to give guests enough time to plan for travel.
If you’re hoping to use your engagement photos for your save-the-dates, I recommend scheduling your session at least two months before you plan to send out your save-the-dates. Between reschedules due to inclement weather, editing, designing your save-the-dates, and printing, two months is generally a safe amount of time to make sure your images and cards are ready.
Save-the-Dates
Locations
SOUTH FL, TAMPA, and Orlando ENGAGEMENT LOCATIONS
I love when couples choose a location for their session that compliments their wedding. For example, if you’re planning an elegant wedding, it may be fitting to take your engagement portraits among the gorgeous architecture of Vizcaya. While a local park or flower-filled fields may be more fitting for a couple planning a more botanical and nature filled celebration. I'm more than happy to make recommendations for you! From natural springs, sprawling venues, to lush parks and Disney World, the options for engagement session locations are endless in South and Central Florida!
Vizcaya
Ringling Museum
Downtown Winter Park
Ancient Spanish Monastery
Bella Collina
Rollins College
Palm Beach Island
CLASSIC & ELEGANT
Port Everglades Inlet
Honeymoon Island
The Keys
Blowing Rocks Preserve
Tampa Bay
COASTAL & BEACH
Brickell
Downtown Tampa
Wynwood
Worth Avenue
URBAN
Disney World
Hiking
Sailing / Boating
ADVENTURE
Tree & Flower Farms
Palm Beach Island
Bok Tower Gardens
Harry P Leu Gardens
Society of the Four Arts
BOTANICAL
Wekiwa Spings
Quiet Waters Park
Tree Tops Park
Matheson Hammock State Park
Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Ocala National Forest
Lake Louisa State Park
Fairchild Tropical Gardens
NATURE
The above locations are all beautiful but I also love exploring meaningful locations with my couples! if you have a particular vibe/look in mind I also know plenty of other locations so don't hesitate to ask for more!
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Melissa's Favorites
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Just minutes from downtown Miami is one of Florida's most epic and gorgeous locations- Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. With its ten acres of gardens, modeled after the gardens of Versailles in France, there is no shortage of stunning backdrops for your photos. If you are a travel lover like myself, you might love the idea of being transported to Europe for your session. This location is best if you want a more elegant and formal look to your photos with a very European flair.
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Melissa's Favorites
Bok Tower Gardens
Bok Tower Gardens is a hidden gem of Central Florida. This location offers the perfect blend of nature and unique architecture. Stroll along the pathways blooming with azaleas in the Springtime, kiss under the hanging moss trees, and explore the Pinewood Estate. Fun fact: this is where Tyler and I chose to take our own engagement photos! Bok Tower is a great choice for nature lovers who want a little something different than you average park (because there's nothing average about this location)!
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Melissa's Favorites
The Ringling Museum
The Ringling is a newly discovered favorite of mine, which I affectionately call the "Vizcaya of the West coast". If you love stunning European inspired architecture with a feminine and pink flair, then you will adore this location. While the photo fee is $350 you have access to the entire grounds including the outside of the Ca’ d’Zan mansion, a rose garden, the museum courtyard (the pink areas), and plenty more. The Ringing would be a great choice if you love European inspired architecture and a slightly more whimsical and feminine look to your photos!
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Melissa's Favorites
Palm Beach Island
A local gem just minutes from downtown is Palm Beach. Home to Worth Avenue, The Breakers, The Colony Hotel, and The Henry Morrison Flagler Museum. The areas architecture is inspired by a combination of styles including Spanish Colonial, Italian Renaissance, and Spanish Renaissance. Draped in colorful bougainvillea year round you'll find. your images have a distinct Mediterranean vibe to them. A little more coastal and fun than other European style locations, with a perfect blend of urban/street backdrops and nature!
While I take most of my engagement sessions in the South and Central Florida area,
I’ve photographed sessions everywhere from Charleston, Asheville, and Charlottesville. If you have a location in mind that is significant to the two of you, let me know because if our schedules align, we might be able to take your engagement photos outside of my normal area.
Travel fees usually apply depending on the location and my availability. I make annual trips to Charleston and Asheville areas each year, both of which offer beautiful sights and locations. Travel fees are waived if we schedule your session while I am in one of these locations.
DESTINATIONS
Outfits
TIPS FOR LOOKING YOUR BEST
When picking outfits I recommend keeping in mind the word “compliment” rather than “match.” For example, if the groom-to-be is wearing a blue and pink pastel plaid shirt, the bride-to-be may want to choose a long, soft blue dress. It can also be a great idea to choose “color-families,” such as pastels or jewel tones. Pastels and neutrals are always my go-to and will help you achieve the soft and natural look in my images.
Generally couples pick two outfits for an engagement session: a more formal outfit and a casual outfit. I recommend saving your favorite outfit for later in the session, when couples usually feel more comfortable in front of the camera. And don’t forget to bring a few props such as a custom bouquet, champagne bottle and flutes, or a blanket to sit on if we're going to a park!
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Heels lengthen legs but if your heels aren’t comfortable for walking, bring an extra pair of shoes to slip into in between shots.
I love the way larger patterns photograph - just be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photo look a little too busy.
Softer, pastel colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin. My signature look is soft and glowing and the best way to help me achieve that signature style is by choosing softer colors, either neutrals, pastels, or some jewel tones.
Wardrobe Tips
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
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I'm a fan of the saying "less is more" and that definitely applies to jewelry for photoshoots. Delicate and simple jewelry always photographs beautifully. Especially rings and bracelets as you don't want to distract from the main piece- your ring!
If you're going to go for a statement, pick one piece. For example a gorgeous pair of long sparkling earrings (and then keep the rest minimal).
Don't shy away from an amazing statement shoe though! Be it a pop of color or delicate lace.
Accessories
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
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Rent the Runway
Vici Dolls
Red Dress Boutique
ASOS
Morning Lavender
Show Me Your Mumu
Anthropologie
Petal and Pup
Favorite Shops
Lulu's
H&M
Altar'd State
Nordstrom
Bloomingdales
Plum Pretty Sugar
Baltic Born
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
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Engagement sessions are the perfect time for a hair and makeup trial! Professionally done hair and makeup do last longer. They also tend to hold up better for humidity and wind.
I think it’s so important that you look and feel your best for your engagement photos - and if you’re planning to do a hair and makeup trial anyways, the engagement session is a great time to test how your hair & makeup look on camera.
If you'd like recommendations for hair/makeup artists please do ask! I'd be happy to send you a list of some of my favorite artists!
Hair & Makeup
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
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There will probably be times during your session when I'm shooting your hands holding, your hand gently touching your partners face, or the engagement ring on your hand - which means it’s a good idea to clean up your nails before your session (this applies to the guys too!). Even if you're not a fan of polish, shape them up and put on a clear coat!
Manicure
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
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You can’t go wrong with a suit and tie. Consider pulling out that suit you had to wear last time you were a groomsmen! One of my favorite looks is a sports jacket with slacks. A classic white button down and khaki pants is always a great go-to as well.
Cozy sweaters layered over button ups are a great way to stay warm and stylish during the cooler months.
Avoid sneakers, untucked button up shirts, wrinkles, and colors that don't compliment your partners outfit.
Wardrobe
WHERE TO SHOP
Outfits
for the gents
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Rent the Runway
ASOS
Suit Supply
J. Crew
Zara
Leather & Cotton
Jack Threads
Frank & Oak
Nordstrom
H&M
Urban Outfitters
Wardrobe
WHERE TO SHOP
Outfits
for the gents
When I can, I always try to take a photo of your ring during your engagement session - so it’s a good idea to have it cleaned or clean it yourself before your shoot! To clean at home, soak your ring in warm water with dishwashing soap for 20 to 40 minutes. Then gently brush the stone with a soft toothbrush, rinse and repeat if needed.
the ring
I can't tell you how many times I've heard this from my couples. And I just have one thing to say to you- no, you are not! When it comes to posing for your engagement session, you don’t need to worry about a thing with me. I’ll guide you through the entire process beginning with “poses” that are easy and natural. I think of it as "directing" rather than "posing".
I want you to remember your engagement session not as a series of stiff poses, but as a fun new experience you're sharing together. Capturing the essence of your relationship and giving you time to just be frolicking fiancés is my goal. No "smile and say cheese" happening here!
Also, keep this in mind if you're nervous about posing: All the couples in this guide are real couples just like you, not models. Couples who never had professional photos taken before and who probably told me "we're so awkward" too.
"We're so awkward in front of the camera."
"We're so awkward in front of the camera."
POSING
I love sending out "sneak peeks" after a session. It's a great way to keep your excitement up and tide you over while I edit the rest. Because I shoot film and digital, I usually don't share a sneak peek until I have my film scans back so that I can edit your digital images to match. Depending on the time of year, that could be 4 business days to 10 business days after your session. Unless I have a holiday closure or vacation, you can expect to receive your full engagement gallery between 3 and 4 weeks after your session.
When to Expect Your Images
I hope this guide covers everything you need to know to prep for your engagement session! If there is something I missed, or you need a recommendation, please feel free to email me: melissapiontkowski@gmail.com
THANK YOU!
