session details, tips, and answers
engagement session
Your 90 minute session can be used any time between booking to the week of your wedding. However if you want to use the images for your Save-the-Dates, it's best to schedule your engagement session 8-12 months before your wedding, Some locations, like private gardens or the Lincoln Memorial require permits and you should factor 2-3 weeks time to secure those permits (which I do for you).
Click below to either schedule your 90 minute session or book a call with Christine if you want to brainstorm something really special.
scheduling
01.
Book a call
Schedule your Session
There are countless landmarks, buildings, parks, and more around the DMV that can accommodate your engagement session. I highly recommend picking a spot that's special to you and your fiancé. Over the years, I've been to dozens of locations with couples. Select 'next' to view rotating galleries of my top engagement sessions locations.
The Kennedy Center is perfect for couples who like the D.C. white marble but want a slightly modern flair. Across the street from the Potomac and with modern sculpture gardens it's gives you all the best of of DC - while being permit free. Sunrise only due to crowds.
The Kennedy Center, D.C.
Dramatic and bold while also being soft, and intimate- the monuments at the National Mall are my favorite location for engagement sessions. It's so easy to dramatic portraits, the white marble is super flattering for all skin tones and the classic look will always look good on your walls. Sunrise Only.
National Mall, D.C.
Nautical and charming defines Annapolis. We'll start at the water, work our way through downtown and quaint homes. We'll start at the waterfront for sunrise and then finish at the state capital. With advance planning we can also head to the Naval Academy grounds. Sunrise only due to crowds.
Annapolis MD
The biggest myth is that beaches are just for summer. While it's true that if you want to go in the water (yes, thats an option), it should be warm but beaches are stunning winter locations as well (no dead trees!). With plenty of options on our side of the bay, you can do sunrise or sunset.
Beaches
We are so lucky to have easy access to the water and the best way to get water in your engagement photos is getting on a boat! There are lots of private yacht, boat, or sailboat charters out of DC, Annapolis or St. Michaels and I'm happy to share a few contacts. Sunrise or sunset.
The Chesapeake Bay
Secret gardens, stone arches, white columns, a beautiful manor- all permit free! Glenview Mansion in Rockville is perfect for a deeply romantic session. This location shines with stylish casual and formal attire. Bring a bouquet for even extra romantic charm. Sunrise or Sunset.
Glenview Mansion
Want to go to Paris but have a smaller budget? Longwood Gardens is a spectacular option with sweeping fountains, formal gardens and an air of charm. Travel is waived for this PA locaiton.
Longwood Garden
When you want a true Federalist Style secession (brick and colorfully painted houses, cobblestone streets and cute ally ways) Old Town is ideal! Smart casual is a great look as you walk arm in arm, We can also end the session at a restaurant for a little date night/brunch vibe. Sunrise preferred.
Old Town Alexandria
BEST FOR: Spring/Summer
BEST FOR: Spring/Summer/Fall
best for: Summer
best for: fall/winter
best for: all seasons
best for: All Seasons
best for: all seasons
best for: Winter
keep weather in mind (cute coats)
neon colors or logos
avoid bold or tiny patterns
neutrals always work
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! Your outfit is the single biggest factor in the cohesiveness and style of the images. 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.
avoid athletic sneakers
when in doubt, go more dressy
Light colors (whites, creams, blues, pastels) will make your session feel lighter and brighter. Pops of color (pink, yellow, purple) will make your images more playful. Darker colors (navys, grey, dark green) will make it your session moodier.
Pro Tip:
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 to-dos that will elevate your engagement photos:
trust me as your expert photographer
relax, have fun, and just be you
There's absolutely no reason to worry about your session. 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:
04.
Props can be anything for you to interact with- a hat, your dress, a blanket to sit on or cuddle with, a picnic, champagne to toast with, or a bouquet to hold.
Props can also be high end rentals or locations designed to customize and create an unforgettable experience. Things like a chartered boat, floral installation, rental gowns, or special locations give us a lot to play with and make for magical, unforgettable (dare I say, viral) images.
Use props to really customize your engagement session and infuse your personality
Personalize
05.
An intimate late summer wedding on the banks of Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire. Sweeping views, lifts during the first dance and New England Lobster Rolls make a winning combination
WEDDING Description
Church Landing at Mills Falls
Kristen & Zach
A classic manor wedding with hints of modern style carefully woven throughout the day. Intimate moments for just them were carved out like a private vow reading after the first look. The father daughter dance will have you grabbing the tisssues.
WEDDING Description
Overhills Mansion, Catonsville MD
Micah & Mark
A traditional manor wedding in early September. The rose garden was on full display and not even a freak afternoon shower could keep the sun away.
WEDDING Description
Antrim 1844 Taneytown MD
Meghan & Tom
Kingsley and Conor followed her parents footsteps, getting married her grandparents estate in Baltimore Maryland. Their late summer wedding was full of thoughtful details and beautiful styling.
Wedding Description
Private Estate Maryland
Kingsley & Conor
Laura and Phil flew from Seattle for their engagement session. They grew up in Maryland and would celebrate their wedding at Howard County Conservancy. They wanted to be able to look back on their session and be reminded of one of their favorite locations in their former home.
Engagement Description
Annapolis Maryland
Laura & phil
A delightful floral infused wedding merging classic wedding romance in the heart of Potomac MD.
Engagement Description
Potomac MD Wedding
Erin & Bobby
Ashley and Sean had a dark moody vibe in mind- which is not my go to style but they wanted deep dramatic posing with true-to-life skin tones. I was up for the challenge. Try not to be jealous of their amazing style.
Engagement Description
Rawling Conservatory Engagement
Ashley & Sean
Absolutely! Pets are a huge part of our families and I love it when they are included. I always ask you bring another person to be completely in charge of your pet. I like working with animals in a 5/15 pattern- 5 minutes photographing, 15 minutes for them to walk and sniff around. This keeps them relaxed and engaged. It also gives you time to get photos with and without them.
Can we bring our Pet?
06.
practice loose-leash walking with dogs
coordinate with stylish leash, colar, & accessories
bring a friend or hire help
schedule grooming
exercise your animal to tire them out
This tip is so easy to forget but while you change into your second outfit I'll photograph your ring on macro (very close up). It's so close up that I'll be able to see any dirt or grime. If you don't have time to clean it professionally, microwave Windex for 20 seconds and then put your ring in that for 1 minute. Use a toothbrush on the stone. Do not put your ring in the microwave.
Clean the ring
07.
Professional hair & makeup will certainly enhance your session but is not required. However some couples time their trial to their engagement session just to make good use of that professional work.
06. Do I NEED professional hair & Makeup?
Sessions are 90 minutes which is enough time for us to really explore your location and do 2 outfits. I keep it really fun so time will fly by!
05. HOW LONG is a session?
Rent the Runway is direct to consumer. You can browse gowns here, but I may have to order them and add the cost to your final invoice.
Colorful Gowns
Rent The Dress
Dalliance Bespoke
04. Where can I RENT a high-end DRESS?
You can always schedule a 1-1 meeting with Christine to do some engagement session brainstorming. Email meganh@silverorchardcreative.com to schedule.
03. We have some ideas but still need help PLANNING.
Most permits will require me, the photographer to fill out the paperwork. We'll take care of it and add the permit cost to your final invoice. Just remember - permits often need 2 weeks lead time.
02. How do we acquire a PERMIT?
Rain is no big concern. We will either reschedule or we can switch to a more covered location. We can also embrace the rain and do rain themed session. Rain is very romantic- ask the Notebook!
01. What if it RAINS?
Have a question about your engagement session? I've got an answer! And if you don't see your question here, please reach out via Honeybook- Megan and I are here to help!
FAQs
08
Use them for Save-the-Dates
What can you do with your albums? Here are some ideas!
View Albums
Your love deserves to live on your walls and in a custom album for your engagement session- not forgotten on your computer. I have an entire selection of premium, heirloom quality albums and prints for your to choose from to ensure your memories last a life time.
Print your images
09
CREATE AN HEIRLOOM ALBUM
Framed Images or Canvases for your wall
Gift Folios to Parents
Make a guestbook Album
