Winter engagement photos at Dundurn Castle in hamilton | with Cristina & Bobby.
Winter engagement photos! You're probably wondering. Can those be fun? Winter engagement photo sessions can be fun and romantic. With a good plan and timing, the winter chill shouldn't keep you from getting outdoors and enjoying time together. Go ahead and use the photo session as an excuse to cuddle up extra close to each other and enjoy some sweet moments while I capture them.
Cristina and Bobby did just that at this recent winter engagement photo session. Our chosen locations were the Dundurn Castle in Hamilton and a cozy Starbucks in downtown Dundas, Ontario.
Scroll down to see more images and read Tips on how to plan for a winter engagement photo session.
Time it right! An overcast day is perfect for soft flattering light. The session can be scheduled any time that day. If it's a sunny day have the photo shoot an hour, or so before sunset. The glowing sun rays hitting the snow will make it sparkle and bring a warm cozy feeling to your images. Avoid at all cost strong windy days. It's not worth it and you won't look good in the pictures.
Bring blankets. Whenever you feel cold, and you will, wrap yourselves with blankets and cozy up. I've captured some amazing candid photos during winter engagement shoots of couples wrapped up in blankets. These tend to be natural and genuine moments of two in love. No makeup or fancy outfit can replace the sweet connections. Accessories as you wish, colorful hats, mittens and scarves add vibrancy and fun to your winter engagement photos.
Take breaks. Wether it's a quick run to your car or a 5min break in a nearby cafe, taking breaks helps avoid the chill and keeps you going longer. If your location is in a rural area bring hot tea, coffee or even wine in a thermos.
Enjoy it. As a photographer, I can take care of all the technical elements, composition, lighting and directing you to get the best, but if you're not enjoying the session and having fun it will show. Don't be afraid to be silly, goof around, dance, and be romantic. This is your time together. Make the most out of it as if no one is around.
Wedding photographer | How do you find yours!
If you're a bride who values photography, choosing a wedding photographer can be a daunting, somewhat overwhelming task. After all, there are no re-dos and you're spending a lot of money on your wedding. I can imagine the fear and trepidation you must feel about hiring a wedding photographer. I've heard far too many horror stories about wedding photographers and "a friend with a really really good camera" not delivering and newlyweds left heartbroken. From an experienced wedding photographer's point of view, I thought I'd share a few tips and suggestions on how to select a fitting wedding photographer you can trust.
Not being biased to choose me, as I honestly believe not every couple out there are for me or I am for them. I have my own selection process too and if we are not the right fit I'll connect you with one of my wedding photographers friends who might be.
1- Do you feel something when you look at the photographer's wedding photos?
"Great photography is about depth of feeling, not depth of field". I like Peter Adams quote. Passionate photographers see the world with their hearts. Each has a unique style and way of capturing your wedding day. You want to FEEL and connect with how they engage the world around them with their cameras, specifically when photographing people, wedding day celebrations, romantic and family relationships.
2 – Do you like the photographer's personality?
Set up a meeting and get a feeling for the personality of the photographer. This is key as he or she will be with you and your guests the entire wedding day and needs to have the ability to engage people in a friendly way, make you and your guests comfortable in front of the camera, move around unobtrusively and direct, adults and kids, when necessary. He or she will also have a keen interest in YOUR story and vision to personalize the shooting style and capture your day in a real and intimate way. Make sure there is a personal connection with your wedding photographer as you select the right one for your wedding day.
Timeless wedding photos are those produced with utmost care for technical aspects of photography (proper exposure, focus, composition and editing). Ask the photographers to show you whole weddings they shot and not just their best images. You need to see what a whole day looks like so you can get a proper feel for their work. Make sure there is a good balance between timeless and trendy wedding photos. Remember Instagram and Pinterest looks are cool, but you might get bored of them by next year.
It happens often when couples find their perfect photographer, but realize they haven't budgeted properly. Do your research on wedding photography costs in your area as early as possible to avoid disappointment. Additionally though, try not to shop on price or a good "deal"! Instead of "deal" look for Return On Investment. I learned that from Patrice & Rodney, a couple whose wedding I photographed. They speak about it in the video below. A good return on investment can be defined by the quality of services and products you are receiving.
I hope you find this helpful. If you have questions, wish to discuss more details on how to plan your wedding photography project with the insight of an experienced wedding photographer feel free to contact me. I'm happy to help.
How to prepare for an engagement session.
Preserve your precious photos in a modern album.
Do I need an engagement photo session?
Engagement photo session. Do I need one?
♥ Have you ever felt that engagement photo session are a waste of time? I've heard it countless times. Many couples may feel that this is an unnecessary commitment at a very busy time leading up to their Big Day. However, from experience, my couples have shared with me that the engagement photo session was the best way to establish the connection, and ease the stress of getting in front of a camera.
Experiment! It is the chance to try out your hair and makeup artists before the actual wedding. This would be a good time to see how your chosen style will be captured and work out any changes before the wedding day. You'll also get a practice run of how it feels to be on a professional photo shoot.
Keepsake! To capture this moment in time! Photos are not just for 'the now' but are time capsules of the love and commitment that you have made, both for now and for new generations to see. Imagine sitting on the couch with your kids or even grandkids telling stories, sharing moments while showing these precious photos from your engagement photo session!
Get "engaged"! Engagement photo sessions are a great way to interact with your wedding photographer prior to the wedding day. It's an opportunity for us to collaborate, get to know each other more and find out what's the best approach for you in front of the camera. Do you need direction on how to "pose"? Or is it best all candid for you?
Fun Date! Remember that first date? The engagement photo session is not all about the pictures. You will be spending fun time with your best friend, doing what you love and falling in love all over again.
Showcase! Share, display, print invitations and tell the world, with creative images, how precious your relationship is!
Paletta Mansion Park in Burlington 4250 Lakeshore Road, Burlington, Approximately 10min drive from the Atrium. This park features tall trees, bridges and a waterfront. Ideal for couples who enjoy wedding photos in natural setting by the water.
Shell Park in Oakville 3307 Lakeshore Rd W, Oakville Approximately 10min drive from the Atrium. This park features tall trees, a beautiful well maintained garden with an arbor. Ideal for couples who enjoy wedding photos with flowers.
Nottinghill Gate Park 1150 Nottinghill Gate, Oakville. Approximately 10min drive from the Atrium. A hidden small gem in Oakville. This park features tall trees, a beautiful well maintained garden. Ideal for couples who enjoy wedding photos with flowers.
Get more comfortable in front of the camera and get better pictures of this amazing day!
Receive plenty of direction from your photographer so that it's more natural on the big day!
Show how unique you are – this is when you can include a great location!
Develop a strong bond of trust with your wedding photographer!
Of course it doesn't have to be a canoe at all – but they do have to be special so that looking back on your engagement photos years from now you see all is the love and celebration!