session details, tips, and answers

Engagement Session

Let's play the strategic game of "Capture the Love"! For the ultimate winning move, scheduling your engagement session 6–8+ months before the big day is like rolling a critical hit in the world of wedding planning.

Picture this: Each season unfolds its own enchanting backdrop, even winter struts in as a star. It's not just a photo session; it's a visual symphony, orchestrated by the elements and your love story.

Now, the timing – ah, that's the secret sauce. Whether it's a sun-soaked afternoon or a twilight rendezvous, we'll tailor it to the season and location, ensuring your photos are a timeless testament to your love saga. So, let's book this visual adventure and make every shot a masterpiece!

When you're ready to schedule your session, please email at hello@1836photographie.com so I can secure your date in my calendar.

Scheduling

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There are countless landmarks, buildings, parks, and more around Nashville 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 my top engagement sessions locations.

This is one of the most amazing, but not well known, nature parks in all of the hill country. If your engagement session is in spring or fall, this area will give you all the romance. A wooded river to wade in, or a magnificent set of stepping stones spanning across if you want to stay dry. There’s truly something for every couple along the 6 miles of trail at Cibolo Nature Center. Donations are accepted for admission, and highly encouraged, so we can continue to enjoy this little wonder for generations.


cibolo nature center | boerne

Forget the typical sunrise-sunset spiel; Overlook Park flips the script. Picture this: your posh selves bathed in the soft hues of dawn or wrapped in the warm glow of sunset. It's not just about photos; it's about capturing straight-up magic. And trust me, you want a photographer who knows how to play with light and shadow to make your love story look like a cinematic masterpiece.


overlook park | canyon lake

Butterfly Bridge isn't just a bridge; it's a frickin' icon. Picture this: you, your love, and the backdrop of the Austin skyline. It's like your own personal red carpet moment in the heart of the city. This ain't your average engagement spot; it's where urban elegance meets unapologetic love.



butterfly bridge | austin

McKinney Falls State Park invites adventurous couples to explore its hidden treasures. From meandering trails to hidden waterfalls, the park provides an unconventional yet enchanting locale for engagement sessions. Nature becomes the playground for love, where raw beauty, rugged landscapes, and the playful energy of the couple blend seamlessly, resulting in photographs that capture the extraordinary in the ordinary.



mckinney falls state park | austin

Taking photos at Pedestrian Bridge is best at sunrise, where the light is always gorgeous and there are hardly any people around. You will get the entire view of the Austin skyline and the park along the river, right below the Bridge. This iconic Austin landmark requires no photography fee.

the pedestrian bridge | austin

Gruene is all about riverfront romance and small-town vibes. Stroll along the Guadalupe River, find a cozy spot by the water, and let the small-town charm of Gruene add a touch of rustic elegance to your love story. It's like being in your own damn romance novel, Texas-style.



gruene | new braunfels

The McNay has its share of secluded spots, away from the museum's hustle. Find your own little nook, whether it's a quiet corner in the courtyard or a spot by the reflection pool. It's your chance to escape into the artistic beauty of The McNay and dive into your love story, unapologetically and intimately.



the mcnay | san antonio

Muleshoe Bend isn't just any park; it's a wildflower symphony on the shores of Lake Travis. Imagine you, your love, and the backdrop of an explosion of colors—bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, and more. It's like stepping into a scene from a romantic wildflower fairytale, with Muleshoe Bend as your natural canvas. This ain't your average engagement spot; it's where nature's palette meets your love story.

muleshoe bend | spicewood

La Villita is a gem for engagement photos, where vibrant history meets romantic charm. The iconic Little Church, with its quaint, limestone walls, or the steps of the historic Arneson River Theatre, come with the rich history of the Lone Star State. The nearby River Walk provides a stunning waterfront backdrop, and, if you’re lucky enough to shoot during Fiesta, La Villita comes alive with a riot of vibrant colors, from papel picado banners to blooming flowers, infusing every shot with festive joy.

la villita | san antonio

Sekrit Theater stands as a hidden gem for couples desiring an enchanting and unconventional backdrop for their engagement photos. Tucked away in Austin, this secret oasis exudes an air of mystery and intimacy, making it the perfect locale for capturing unique love stories.


sekritt theater | austin

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Location ideas

02.

best for: fall, winter

best for: all seasons

best for: all seasons

best for: fall, winter

best for: all seasons

best for: all seasons

best for: SPRING, SUMMER

best for: spring, summer

don't forget the weather

no bright or neon colors

avoid bold patterns

when in doubt, go neutral

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! While you should consider the weather, it's best to be comfortable and confident in what you wear. 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.

take advantage of a hair/makeup trial

get a manicure for close-up shots

clean your engagement ring

Treating yourself like the royalty you are is always a damn good idea, am I right?! While it's not a must-do, there are a couple of things that'll take your engagement photos from stellar to out-of-this-world fabulous:






trust me as your expert photographer

relax, have fun, and just be you

No need to stress your pretty heads about the upcoming session. Let's ditch the worry and treat it like a kick-ass opportunity for us to connect and have a blast! As you gear up for your time in the spotlight, just remember these two golden nuggets:






session tips:

04.

No worries at all! The whole 'photogenic' thing is a myth. I'll capture the real you, and by the end, you'll be wondering why you ever doubted your picture-perfect selves.















06. What if we aren't photogenic and usually cringe at pictures of ourselves?

Hell yes, you will! This isn't a fashion shoot; it's a celebration of your love. I'll guide you, make you laugh, and ensure those natural, 'just us' moments shine through.

05. What if we're not supermodels? Will we still look like total rockstars in the photos?

Absolutely! Fur babies are VIPs in my book. Let's capture the whole damn family – tails, fur, and all. Their adorable antics will only amp up the awesomeness.


04. Can we bring our fur baby? They're kind of the star of our love story.

Let's chat about your vibe, your story. Whether it's a cityscape, a tranquil park, or somewhere in between – I've got a knack for matching locations to your unique love tale.


03. How do we choose the perfect location that screams 'us'?

Weather throwing shade? I got tricks up my sleeve. Whether it's rain or shine, we'll make magic happen – trust me, your photos will slay. Or we can move it one time, no fee!


02. What happens if the weather decides to be a total diva on our shoot day?

No worries, darlings! I'm not here to make you feel like stiff mannequins. We'll chat, laugh, and by the end, you'll forget there's even a camera around.

01. What if we aren't comfortable in front of the camera?

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 email: hello@1836photographie.com.

FAQs

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