Stephanie and Bret met in an elevator in the building where they both work and I thought it would be appropriate to put together an elevator collage.  As the background I used the texture from the elevator and printed the shot on canvas for their wall.  Bret, thanks for your constant humor throughout the day.  And Stephanie, thank you for your lovely smiles!

I found myself in the paper today!

The Arizona Republic was kind enough to follow me on an engagement shoot and catch me in action during Stephanie and Brent’s engagement session (see girl lying on back in grass).  Michael McNamara (awesome photog…who also does kick ass photo booths for weddings) had the fun task of shooting me while I photographed the couple.  I’ve never been photographed while photographing but it was a unique experience that made me slightly self conscious for the first 5 minutes…enough time to forget he was there.

The article was essentially about the new trend of couples  who are asking for magazine-style photos.  I think the idea of candid and non-traditional engagement sessions has been around for a while but it’s just now catching the eye of major media outlets.  The attention is great for the photography industry at large.  It’s nice to finally be noticed for the hard work and creative touches we put into our sessions and I was grateful that the newspaper took a respectful spin on the idea.

Other than highlighting the trend, it offered some great “dos and don’ts”, such as do: reflect your style.  Do: an activity you normally do together.

Inspired by their to do list, I came up with a few of my own…

Don’t: wear clashing colors or patterns that will distract the eye in the final image.  Solid colors are best but be sure you’re not too matchy-matchy.  Similar color tones and dressing up is always encouraged.

Don’t: expect to know how to “pose” for the camera.  I’m there to photograph the essence of you as a couple not a catalogue. :)  I’ll help prompt you through the shoot so you’re in good hands.

Don’t: (for guys only) get a haircut the day before your session.  Men’s hair usually looks best about a week after their cuts.

Don’t: Stress out.  For whatever reason, people get stressed when it comes to being in front of the lens.  Be aware that you might get a little ancy before the session.  It’s totally natural.  Share a glass of wine before the session if you need a little relaxer.

Do: consider getting your make up and/or hair professionally done.  Many of my couples use their engagement photos for save the date cards, engagement guest sign in books, for websites or frame them for office desks and as gifts.  You want to be sure you look your best the day of and don’t let a thing like a bad hair day, ruin your photos.

Do: Try to come on-time.  If you’re not…see advice above.  Your photographer is arranging the session to maximize the amount of “good” light during the day.  Good light is limited to just a couple hours and you don’t want your money or time to go to waste.

Do: Remember to tell your photographer anything about yourself that is significant to personalizing your images.  Ie. where did you meet?  Stephanie and Bret (featured in the article) met in an elevator so I did a collage series on canvas of a closing elevator door with them in it.  I love the idea of creating images that tell stories about who you are, how you met, or how you got engaged.

Do: Bring your pet if they are fairly well behaved…and be sure you are going someplace to photograph that will allow pets.  Definitely let your photographer know in advance!!

Do: Plan on having fun!!  A lot of my couples tell me this is one of the best days of their engagement.  You’ll see for yourself!

Incredible weather, a beautiful/fun/awesome couple, intimate setting, seamless coordination, and lots of time allotted for photos….what more could one ask for!!!

Thanks Lisa and Brian for your wonderful spirit and lots of smiles!

Coordination and Details by Victoria Canada Weddings and Events

Invitations: Celebrations in Paper

Location: Seven Arches, Private Residence in Alexander Valley

Phoenix Bride and Groom Magazine recently did a shout out for some of my best shoe images…here are some of my faves.

Tiffani and Justin had a traditional Mormon ceremony at the Temple in San Diego and followed up the day with an intimate lunch at La Valencia in San Diego.

Details and Coordination were put together by Amina, owner of Some Like It Classic