Engagement Session FAQ - New York, NY Engagement Photographer

He popped the question?! Congratulations! You're probably considering an engagement session and have a few lingering questions. You're not really sure what to expect, have no clue what to wear, and kinda camera shy. I thought I'd post little FAQ addressing the most commonly asked questions about the engagement session and how to prepare for it. 

When should we schedule our engagement session?

Schedule your engagement session during the months when the weather is gorgeous, and try to get them done at least two months before the wedding. The earlier the better especially if you’re thinking about using these photos for your Save the Dates or Guest Book. Plan on your shoot being early in the morning (at least one hour after sunrise), or late afternoon (at least one hour before sunset). Those are truly the most beautiful times of day for portraits of any kind.

What can we expect from the engagement session?

The engagement session is about me getting to know you as a couple and you getting to know me as your photographer. We’ll get to talking, have fun and get to know each other better all while taking pretty pictures. My goal at the end of the session is to make you feel comfortable in front of the camera and feel comfortable with me as the person by your side on your wedding day.

Must we book you as our wedding photographer in order to have the engagement session?

Not at all - I’m happy to shoot your engagement session even if you decide to use someone different on your wedding day.

Where will the session take place?

I have a few locations I enjoy shooting which I can recommend to you, but love it when couples suggest their favorite location – like where you went on your first date, had your first kiss, or where he popped the question. It definitely brings a new level of intimacy to the photos.

What should I wear?

It’s all about your personal style, but don’t hesitate to really kick it up a notch. You’re making an investment in this session and it’s your time to shine! For truly editorial type images careful consideration to your wardrobe is absolutely necessary. Show your personality by adding your favorite accessories. A sexy wrap dress or flirty sundress are great ideas. Heels are a girl’s best friend! And if you’re really daring, whip out that sequined cocktail dress you only got to wear once. I’ll love you for it! Bold, happy colors that compliment your skin are without a doubt the way to go. Stay away from clothing with large logos, or busy print.  And for the guys, if your lovely lady steps out in heels and cocktail dress, you might want to pair that with a nice button up or blazer – that look will certainly do the trick. Do bring at least two outfits, as long as there is time during our session, I would love to give you different options. I've styled dozens of shoots over the years, for both my own model portfolio and for others.  I'm happy to make suggestions, if you need any help!

What about hair and makeup?

I strongly recommend professional hair and makeup for your session.  Especially professional makeup! As I mentioned before, this is an investment in photos you’ll look at and share for years to come. Professionally done makeup looks magical on camera. The pros know which colors compliment certain skin tones, which shades of makeup work best on camera and the tricks to accentuate your best features. I promise you won’t regret being dolled up. Go extra crazy – try false eyelashes!! Of course, if you decide a makeup artist is not for you, that's perfectly fine too. Its possible to get a mini makeover at a cosmetics counter in a department store if you purchase an item or two - This will look just as fab! As for hair, making a trip to your favorite salon the morning of usually does the trick. For the guys, if its time for a haircut, I recommend getting it done one week before the session. And if you want the clean shaved look – do it the morning of, and be very careful !
Extra Tip - prep your hands and nails for closeups - fresh manicure for the girls, and trimmed clean nails for the guys. 

I’m nervous! I have no idea what to do or how to pose. 


Being nervous is natural – but please don’t worry too much.  Once you’re all dolled up, hair and makeup styled, beautiful outfit and handsome man by your side, the rest will fall into place. You will radiate confidence!  I will put you in great light and you give lots of direction. My 5+ years in the fashion industry as a plus size model will work to your advantage here, ladies. I love posing and getting you to work your curves! Get ready for lots of snuggling, lots of smooching, a few of my corny jokes and most importantly get ready to tap into your inner GQ/Supermodel!

Wordless Wednesday - New York, NY Lifestyle Photographer

Wordless Wednesday - New York, NY Lifestyle Photographer

I bet you're looking at the title and wondering, “What’s Wordless Wednesday?”

According to answers.com - "On Wednesdays all over the internet, bloggers post a photograph with no words to explain it on their blog. Hence the ‘wordless’ title. The idea is that the photo itself says so much that it doesn’t need any description."

So, every Wednesday, I will blog one image I’ve taken.  I'm not going to limit myself here. I may post a picture of just about anything - not sure really, but I’m looking forward to sharing with you!

Frost Bite & Inspiration in Central Park - New York, NY Wedding & Engagement Photographer

Just this Sunday, I had the opportunity to work as an assistant for Ceci B, Long Island wedding photographer who specializes in Bridal Boudoir.   I will be shooting with Ceci this Spring as the second photographer for a wedding taking place at the historic Oheka Castle! I'm insanely excited about the opportunity.  I'm shooting a Wedding in a CASTLE!!!! Its going to be an amazing day --  I. Can. Not. Wait.

I had a great time getting to know Ceci - talking life, business and photography. It really is refreshing to be able to learn from and teach another photographer -  Share ideas over lunch, bounce inspiration off one another and basically create a support group. We both walked away that day having learned new things, eager for Spring's arrival to be able to fully execute our visions and passions. 

This time around, I got to help with an engagement session,  maternity session and basic headshot session in Central Park.  I don't have to tell you how cold it was on Sunday. It was quite the disappointment after having such gorgeous weather on Friday.  Mother Nature is such a tease!! The clients were troopers about it, though. I have to admit, I'm quite the sissy when it comes to working in harsh weather conditions.  I must have had 12 layers on, shivering, teeth chattering, frostbit fingers and all. I even had wind burned cheeks at the end of the day. The oh-so-brave clients however, were pulling off their coats to get the best shot possible. I was VERY impressed. 

Between lugging equipment, holding coats, and aiming reflectors, I got to take a few frames during the engagement session.  I'm excited to be able to share a favorite of the cute fun couple. Although its not their wedding I'll be shooting this Spring, I'm very happy I got to meet them and wish these two all the best! Can you tell its 19 degrees out?? 

Bridal Resource - Links to Help You Think - New York, NY Wedding and Engagment Photographer

Hello Lovelies!


As  I plan my own 2011 wedding, I spend dozens of hours online looking for inspiration, tips, ideas and advice. If you're anything like me, massive wedding websites like TheKnot can do more harm than good in your quest for wedding knowledge. There's a lot going on there - too much perhaps.  When you sign up, create an account and enter your wedding date, they calculate just how many days you have left 'till the wedding. The only thing that little count down clock does is remind me of all the stuff I didn't get around to doing! Can you say, "Un-neccsary Stress"?!?! About 10 minutes surfing TheKnot and I break a sweat. Stick a fork in me - I'm done. Thankfully through my own intensive searching, (as well as helpful tips from others) I've come across several very wonderfully fun websites which I would love to share with you here (For the Brides)!

*Photos not taken by Jasmine E. Photography*


 
1. www.google.com/weddings - Google for Weddings! At some point, we all need to make a wedding website. We're in 2011 for cryin' out loud - You need a website! Its just So. Darn. Cute. Not sure when, where or how to start one? Not to worry, Google keeps it simple. Google Weddings also helps you organize your guest list, seating chart, music list and address book - Ummm, what are you waiting for? Click the link.


2. www.thebrokeassbride.com - If the name alone isn't enough for you to check this link, lets keep it real here. As much as we'd all love to have an infinity budget to plan our dream wedding, the simple truth is - we have a budget.  The lovely ladies at brokeassbride do an excellent job of showing us creative and budget friendly ideas to keep the fabulosity in our pocket pinched wedding planning.


3. www.stylemepretty.com - This wedding blog is oozing uber amounts of wedding inspiration. They have a section called "Real Weddings".  If anything, please check it out for the romantic stories and pretty pictures. You will find inspiration here.


4. www.tenthousandonly.blogspot.com - *A MUST READ* This was the first wedding blog I stumbled upon the day after he proposed. I was glued. This blog documents a determined brides two year journey and her goal to spend not a penny more than $10,000 on her dream wedding. Unfortunately, she doesn't update this blog anymore (she is now married and yes you find out at the end if its possible) - Start from the very beginning, re-live her journey and find out if she meets her goal.

5. www.ariadress.com - OK, I don't have to tell you that NO two women have the same curves. Some dresses flatter you and look dreadful on me, and vice versa. Don't make your bridesmaids wear the same dress if the dress only looks good on a size 2 mannequin. I love Aria Dress because each dress is built from the ground up for YOUR body type, YOUR measurements, and made to make YOU look and feel fabulous! Soooo many colors and styles and lengths to choose from. You pick the color scheme and let your girls choose the rest. And yes! They do the Wedding Dress too!! The best part - your bridesmaids wont feel bad about the cost because these dresses are so cute, they'll actually wear the dress again to another party in the future! Hollaaaaa!


6. www.travelersjoy.com - This is one I wish I had found just a day or two sooner - not kidding. So the conventional Wedding Registry is just not your thing. You already have your amazing William Sonoma Panini-Press and powerful Dyson Vacuum.  You don't need another toaster, or wine opener ... what you REALLY want is and unforgettable honeymoon to FIJI!!  Travelersjoy to the rescue - Your wedding guest help you with the Honeymoon of a lifetime! A Wedding Registry you and he will surly LOVE!!


7. http://www.bloomsbythebox.com/ - Do it yourself flowers!! Do you cringe at the thought of spending $3,000 on the flower arrangements - *cough, cough* they do die the next day *cough,cough*.  (I know I do) Or maybe you're just a really crafty lady, and love the thought of creatively styling your perfect wedding day arrangements. Beautiful and affordable!! Bloomsbythebox helps you to put your precious wedding planning dollars into something LASTING ...  like your Wedding Album! *wink, wink*


8. http://www.twoofus.org/ -  I really enjoy twofus because they offer some valuable insight to "Life After the Wedding" and get into the kinda complicated stuff no one discussed with you before hand.  A healthy marriage resource you'll be interested in long after you say I DO.

9. http://www.colormemarried.com/ - I LOVE colors. Colors can change your mood with one glance. One of the most fun parts of planning your wedding is picking your color scheme! Color Me Married provides color-coordinated shopping suggestions and schemes based on your wedding colors. Give it a try! 

10. 50 Wedding Photos Can't Do Without via (www.theknot.com) - If you're the type of bride that wants the entire story, right down the to tiniest detail of the day captured then this is a must see article from The Knot - I know I said they're overwhelming sometimes, but this article in particular is SO dead on for me I just had to share with you. 50 examples of simple, beautiful yet powerful images that will keep the memories fresh in your mind for years to come. I LIVE for images like this both in terms of my photography style and in regards to my own wedding.  So, please read and educated yourself on the type of photos you want on your big day. Knowing what you want in advance really helps your process in choosing your wedding photographer!

11. http://www.davidsbridal.com/ - If you're a bride that cringes at the thought of stepping foot in a David's Bridal, I have some news for you.  Vera Wang has dropped a fabulos line at David's Bridal this month - And these dresses are to DIE for!! I feel that David's Bridal truly has a strong collection of offerings these days - Gorgeous gowns in a variety of sizes, styles, colors and price ranges. Its seems there is something for everyone here. Speaking from personal experience, I was very surprised with the quality of service I recieved when shopping recently. I advise you to at least take a look around because you might be pleased with what you see!

This is my short-list of go-to resources. I will definitely add to it as I continue my search for more wedding information and inspiration. I hope you find this even a tiny bit helpful. From one bride-to-be to another ... through these sites, I learn something new everyday!! Until next time! :)


So, read carefully and enjoy the wedding planning process. Don't stress!

A First Look - New York, NY Wedding Photographer|

A First Look

Traditionally speaking, most couples know the customary rule that the bride and groom shouldn’t see each other at all until the moment she’s walking down the isle. Some would even consider doing so is bad luck. I’m all for tradition, but breaking the rules can be worth it sometimes.  I want to share an option with you that you may have never considered before -- A First Look


What is a First Look?
An opportunity to see each other before the ceremony and share those first intimate moments as husband and wife together 
(with your photographer shooting away in the distance)

What are the benefits of a First Look?

• This will ultimately be one of the few intimate moments you have alone together on your wedding day
• This moment is so beautiful and touching, you and your soon to be hubby might shed a tear - you'll never forget that feeling
• Bonding beforehand may ease the nervousness you experience just before the ceremony
• A First Look makes for a much smoother layout of your day and takes the “rush-rush” element out of photographing your bridal party and family portraits between the ceremony and reception
• If you have a late (sunset) ceremony and you don't want your portraits done in the dark, a First look is a great idea
• With portraits out of the way early you actually get to enjoy the Cocktail Hour! Mingle with you friends and out of town family
• Seeing each other before the ceremony will by no means take away from the moment when your eyes meet at the end of the isle. The two experiences are equally powerful and still very different.

Your Choice

If the first look is something you’re thinking of incorporating into your wedding daytime line, great! If not, that’s great too! I for one feel that there are no rules for creating your perfect wedding day accept for the number one rule I believe every bride should follow:

Do what makes YOU happy! 

The Layout

Below is an example wedding day timeline showing the layout of a day that includes a First Look. No two Weddings are the same, so I will always take the time to work with each Bride individually to ensure a 'wedding day timeline' is in place. This helps to make sure your day runs smoothly whether the First Look option is chosen or not.

Example Wedding Day Timeline

2:00 p.m      Photography Begins

                                   *Details photographed (wedding dress, shoes, jewelry, invitations, bouquet)

                                   *Last-minute hair and makeup touch-ups

                                   *Candid photos of the bridesmaids preparing

3:00 p.m.     Bride Dresses

                                    *Candids of bride with mom and bridesmaids

3:30 p.m.     First Look

                                    *Bride and groom see each other before the ceremony for photos              

4:00 p.m.     Bridal Party Pictures

                                    *Bride with her bridesmaids, group and solo photos

                                    *Groom with his groomsmen, group and solo photos

                                    *Entire group

4:30 p.m.     Bride Gets Tucked Away From Early Arriving Guests

                                    *Photographers shoot ceremony details and cocktail hour location, if available                                  

5:00 p.m.     Ceremony

5:30 p.m.     Ceremony Ends

5:40 p.m.     Family Pictures

6:10 p.m.     Sunset Photos with Bride and Groom

6:25 p.m.     Photograph Reception Details

6:45 p.m.     Grand Entrance

6:55 p.m.     First Dance

7:00 p.m.     Welcome and Prayer (if applicable)

7:15 p.m.     First Course Served

7:30 p.m.     Toasts

7:45 p.m.     Second Course Served

8:15 p.m.     Father & Daughter / Mother & Son Dance

8:25 p.m.     Open Dancing (Parrr-tayyy)

9:30 p.m.     Cake Cutting

9:40 p.m.     Bouquet / Garter Toss
10:00 p.m.   Photography Coverage Wrap-Up

Final Thought

Again, the final choice is yours and yours alone! Personally, as I get ready to walk down the isle myself later this year, I definitely plan to do the First Look giving ourselves plenty of time to get the portraits done early so we can enjoy the awesome food we've picked for the cocktail hour and mingle with family we haven't seen in years!  I don't want to miss a thing! *squeal* :D

The Wedding of Kathleen & Jason October 2010

My Gear - Queens, New York Wedding Photographer

Some of my favorite photographers have dedicated blog post to share what they're shooting with, which I find both helpful and informative. Whether its for weddings, head shots or other shoots, each photographer uses certain tools to get his or her's desired results. Additinoally, almost all photographers have their favorite must have piece of equipment. The more I shoot, the more I understand why certain photographers absolutely need certain pieces of equipment and why they might love one particular piece more than the others. I thought it would be fun to do the same here and share my equipment lineup and favorites with you.

My Gear ...

Nikon D200: This is the first real piece of photography equipment I invested in back in 2008 when I decided it was time to dig in. This Nikon at the time was considered the beginner pro grade camera body - I figured I'd start with this and see where it leads me. This body came with a decent kit lens (18-135 3.5/5.6) and it was just what I needed to get the ball rolling. In the beginning stages this camera made a lot of angry words come out my mouth. It was the most technologically advanced piece of equipment I had ever touched (aside from a computer) and sometimes scary.  As I became acquainted with it and learned the general rules of photography, I came to love it. I still have it in my bag and often use it as my play camera or for personal stuff.

  

Nikon D700: This camera rocks my world! I upgraded to this model March 2010 when I decided I wanted to pursue wedding photography and boy was it just what I needed! What makes this camera worth it, in my opinion, is its impressive ISO capabilities. The D700 has the ability to photograph high quality images in low lighting conditions (ex. a Church ceremony where flash is not allowed or concert photography).  It blows every other model before this one out of the water with that very important feature. This camera is a serious  MUST have for certain types of photography. I love my D700!! 

Nikon 50mm 1.4:  This lens was the first lens I purchased in 2009 and used on the D200. I decided to get rid of the kit lens, and invest in some good glass. Isn't it cute?!?! This lens is super sharp, super fast and surprisingly, super budget friendly. The 1.4 f/stop gives this tool the ability to grab available light from anywhere. Even when you think there isn't much light available, it can work if you have this lens.  When paired with the D700 the 50mm 1.4 is really more like a secret weapon - really.

Nikon 105mm 2.8:  I picked this one up in 2009 as well.  This is absolutely my most FAVORITE lens - I can not put enough emphasis on the word favorite. This lens is sharp, fast, and smooth like butter! If you come to me to for your head shots or your portraits, 95% of the time, I will be using this one. I prefer this lens first above the others because this lens will make you pretty-ER.  I'm not kidding.  It has magical inner workings that flatters all faces.   The 105 also has a red "VR" emblem on the body that sands for "Vibration Reduction" - its a special feature that allows photographers to get sharper hand held images with long lenses, in dim light.  Its all too technical if you ask me.  I'd much prefer  the "VR" stood for "Very Rad" because thats what this lens is. Oh, and the BOKEH on this bad boy is bea-U-tiful making this a go to lens for macro work or when you want to shot 'the details' of a beautiful Wedding day.

Nikon 24-70 2.8:  I purchased this lens March 2010 when I picked up the D700. I was fighting with myself hard between getting this one or the much more expensive and magnificent 70-200 2.8 VR II. I knew I would need both eventually, but this one fit my budget at the time. So, here she is! I like this lens because of its zoom range. The 24 end is wide enough for big group shots and wide shots inside a Church or venue.  The 70 end works great as a portrait lens if needed. And of course, as with any lens, to work with an f/stop of 2.8 is pretty awesome. Its an all 'round multi-purpose lens, really. Aside from it being quite heavy (which I get over pretty quickly because there's nothing wrong with a little arm workout mid-shoot) there isn't anything I don't like about this one. 

Nikon SB-900:  I prefer to shoot in natural light and rarely use flash during the day. I think natural light is beautiful, and most photographers would agree too, BUT we aren't always able to choose an ideal time of day or location to work in - especially in the Wedding industry. With that in mind I purchased this speedlight at the end of 2009.   This little unit packs a lot of punch. The trick with this type of flash is to never point it directly at anyone - that is unless you're going for that deer in headlights look. I strategically bounce or diffuse the light to make it more attractive -- its rather impressive and has definitely come in handy. 

So thats it in a nutshell - this is the stuff I work with right now. I tend to rent different things if needed for a specific job or when I want to test a piece of equipment and see if would work with my shooting style. There are definitely things I would LOVE to add to my arsenal, and I will own those one day down the road but for now - This is My Gear and I love 'em all!