When at all possible, I am all about traveling a bit to get to a perfect location. For one, having a diverse catalog of locations is inspiring and keeps the couples experience interesting; and two, this is a great chance to make a mini vacation out of a photo shoot.
I like to choose a location that the couple has never been, this keeps moods positive, couples excited, and makes for an easy going session.
Distance.
I won’t ask a couple to travel more than 1-2 hours usually. A short travel time keeps everyone fresh and ready to go and depending on traffic…relaxed. Lol! I have had couples that have locations in mind and I am more than willing to accommodate. In this case, I make it a point to travel there before the couple so that I may familiarize myself with the location and get a feel for what shots I’ll be taking.
What to wear.
This isn’t always an easy question to answer but here are some guidelines I like to follow.
- Formal first
- This makes for an easy transition to casual and really sets the tone for the rest of the day. Also, gives me an opportunity to knock out the most dramatic images before clients get uncomfortable walking around for a bit.
- This is the perfect time to explore dramatic bright colors for the bride to be.
- Comfortable
- Whether it’s formal or casual, make sure you wear something comfortable and breathable. Especially in the summer months.
- Bring an extra pair of shoes if extensive walking is needed to reach the location. No bride-to-be likes hiking in heels.
- Don’t match with whites
- Seriously don’t try to match white clothing. hahaha!
I like my couples to be themselves and have a good time so I don’t lay too many restrictions. I like to work with the future bride and groom on outfit ideas and lend my advice if needed but overall just keep it simple. This tends to work 99% of the time.
Weather check.
This would seem obvious but ALWAYS check the weather of the location before you leave. The last thing you want is unexpected rain or crazy winds. (Not that wind isn’t useful)
Outfit Changes.
I try to pick a location ahead of time for couples to change outfits. Depending on the location, we could make the changes in between stops if there are two different areas we will be visiting.
Timing.
In the summer I like for couples to arrive around 5:30 PM so that we may catch sunset and a warmer light for the shoot.
I will inform my clients that the time could vary depending on the weather. If it’s cloudy we could certainly move the time up a hair. But if it’s a clear sky and full sun we may start around 6-6:30. I typically let my couples know the day before of what time to expect.