As a people loving photographer, I love when inquiries land in my inbox that aren’t just about the fun + beautiful photos, but also about the couple themselves!
What they enjoy doing together, how they naturally connect, and what their love looks like in the in-between moments.
That’s exactly what we leaned into for Sarah and Matt’s library engagement photos and the library couldn’t have been a more perfect fit for them.
The Most “Them” Session Possible (And Why It Worked So Well)
Sarah is a preschool teacher and Matt works in a library!
So it made total sense when they had the idea to do their engagement photos in library. (Yes, they are as cute as they sound)
At no point did they stop and think about how anything would “look.”
They weren’t trying to recreate something they saw online or force a moment to happen.
They just did what they normally would on a lil date night and that’s what made it feel so easy.
Why Engagement Sessions Matter
I always tell my couples that engagement sessions are not only about the photos (even though obviously they are important and you’ll love those too) but just as much about the experience.
It’s where you get the nerves out, get a feel for how I work, and realize pretty quickly that you don’t need to have it all figured out.
By the time your wedding day comes around, nothing feels new or awkward and it just flows easily.
It’s truly such a special season of life that’s worth slowing down and documenting. Also, it’s super meaningful when your session truly feels like you two.
For Sarah and Matt, that looked like:
- hugging onto each other while scanning the books
- quiet moments giggling like little kids behind bookshelves
- inside jokes that made absolutely no sense to anyone else
- that calm, comfortable energy of two people who genuinely enjoy each other
And those are the moments that actually create a gallery that feels like something.
“What Should We Do for Our Engagement Session?”
In my opinion, an engagement session should be whatever sounds like fun to you two! Also, what do you want your photos to look like? A cool dive bar vibe, a date at a brewery, or running around the beach with your pup? This will help us plan out your session and make sure it’s a perfect fit! Also, don’t be afraid to have fun with it! If you want to dress up like you normally don’t get to, then by all means, I am here for it! But, if you want to stay chill and casual because that’s how you feel the best then absolutely go that route.
Sarah and Matt mentioned that their favorite activities included:
- reading side by side
- playing games (yes, Scrabble was mentioned and yes I love that for them)
- sipping tea and just hanging out
And for you? It could look like:
- grabbing beers at your go-to spot
- walking your dog at sunset along the Seacoast
- cooking dinner together at home
- hitting the slopes & skiing
- hiking your favorite trail in the White Mountains
- or…library engagement photos if that’s your thing too
There’s no “right” answer here. Only what feels natural for you two.
How My Engagement Sessions Go Down
Engagement sessions are technically an add-on to my wedding and elopement package…but they’re one of the most valuable parts of the whole experience. Here’s my process on making sure it’s a memorable experience for the both of you.
1. I make sure you feel comfortable and relaxed before starting to take photos
When our session begins, I don’t just jump straight into photos. We will chat, walk around for a bit, and ease into it so things feel less like a photoshoot and more like hanging out together.
2. I will check in during the session, give breaks in between when needed.
Truth is, you are probably not models and you aren’t supposed to be! Feeling a little awkward is totally normal and I promise to check in and show you how amazing you are looking from behind the camera. Sometimes leaning into the goofy moments end up being some of the favorites from the album.
3. I will deliver photos that actually feel like you.
Because we’ve already figured out what works for you as a couple, we don’t have to force poses, curate one-size-fits-all prompts and instead get to match your vibe for max comfort and end up with a gallery that you are excited to show your friends and family.
If You’re Not Sure What Your Session Should Look Like…
It doesn’t have to be epic. It doesn’t have to be outdoors. And it doesn’t have to be anything other than yours.
I’m always here to help you figure it out and make it feel easy! Let’s plan an engagement photoshoot that feels like your typical Saturday, get in touch here!
New England Couples Photographer | Erica Warren Photography
Howdy! I’m Erica – a New Hampshire wedding and engagement photographer for couples who care way more about having a good time together than forcing stiff, awkward photos. My approach is documentary-style, easygoing, and deeply personal, which means my whole job is to help you feel comfortable, be yourselves, and end up with photos that actually feel like you. If you’re into connection, good energy, and engagement photos that feel natural instead of performative, I’m your girl.
