Your Adventure Engagement Session Guide

An adventure engagement session is such a fun way to break up the (sometimes stressful) routine of wedding planning. For many couples, the engagement session isn’t just a time to get a few photos together and show off the new bling. An engagement session is a time of celebration for both of them, marking a new chapter in their journey together, and highlighting this huge life decision. While local engagement sessions are awesome, adventure engagement sessions are a time to create new memories together and get some totally unique photos. They are a time to build your relationship and have an experience together. Plus, who doesn’t love an excuse for a fun trip?

What is an adventure engagement session?

I like to think of an adventure engagement session as a destination engagement session, sort of like a destination wedding. Adventure engagement sessions typically involve some kind of travel – whether it be a road trip just a couple of hours away or a flight overseas. They can be as simple as driving to the closest city for a weekend, or taking an international vacation to somewhere new and bringing your photographer along. Adventure engagement sessions can also absolutely include some element of uniqueness or excitement – like hiking in the mountains, a beach trip, exploring your favorite resort, a helicopter ride, roaming the streets of your favorite city, a day at an amusement park, or sailing – the possibilities are truly endless! Customize it to what you love to do together. You can also consider adding your engagement session to a pre-planned trip.

Why you should have an adventure engagement session

Maybe you’re planning a local wedding, but you still have a sense of wanderlust. This will give you the best of both worlds. You can experience something new together, which will bring you closer. Perhaps you and your partner can’t decide between eloping or doing a big wedding in your hometown. Again, an adventure engagement session gives you a taste of both worlds!

Couples who love to travel should definitely have an adventure engagement session. This experience might add a new favorite place to your travel list. Or, you can explore somewhere you love and is meaningful, like where you were engaged, where you went on your first vacation together, or a place you frequent together.

Having an adventure engagement session means epic photos for years to come. You can use these photos on your wedding website, for your Save the Dates, and at your wedding. These photos will always remind you of this special trip together!

How to plan an adventure engagement session

Timing

There’s no wrong time to have your session. First, decide where you’d like to go. Then, consider the weather for your location. Chicago engagement photos may not be the best in January. Avoid Mexico during the peak rainy season. If you want the NYC holiday magic, plan for December. You get the idea! Use a flight tracker like Google Flights to find the least expensive times to fly, as travel fees usually apply when having an adventure engagement session. Of course, consult with your photographer on their availability as well.

Most wedding and engagement photographers will recommend you have your session a few hours before sunset or immediately following the sunrise. These “golden hours” are the best light for photos. However, your photographer will be able to give you a personal recommendation based on your plans.

Location

Location is everything when it comes to your session! What vibe fits you as a couple? Are you New York City chic? Desert adventurers? Rooftop pool with skyline views kind of people? Do you visit Mexico every anniversary? It’s totally about where you love to be together and what you want out of your session.

Here are just a few places I think would be epic for your session:

• New York City
• Chicago
• San Francisco
• The Oregon coast
• New Orleans
• Las Vegas
• Atlanta
• Miami
• Nashville
• Maine
• Rhode Island
• Alaska
• Colorado
• Mexico
• Italy
• Greece
• Spain
• Ireland
• England
• Iceland
• Paris

What to wear

Again, definitely consider the weather wherever you’re going. Also, again consider the vibe you are going for. Regardless, of location, I typically recommend timeless neutrals for your engagement session. However, there are definitely exceptions! A bright pop of color in Vegas totally fits the vibe. I personally guide all of my couples on what to wear and give them mood boards for outfit inspiration. Typically, I tell couples to bring two outfits – one that’s more casual, and another that’s more formal.

What to bring

You will want to make sure you bring a change of clothes. If you’re flying, put this in your carry-on. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes. Even if you’re wearing heels, bring a pair of sandals to slip on when walking around.

I encourage you to bring anything that will make the session special or more personal. Bring your favorite beverage, team jerseys, or a piece of home.

Finally, bring your sense of adventure and be ready to have fun! A positive attitude can make or break a session. Do your best to let the nerves go. Your photographer will help you get candid, gorgeous images. All you have to do is have an open mind!

Need a photographer for your adventure engagement session? I’d love to help you plan the perfect trip for the perfect photos! Reach out to me here.