Have you been wondering when to schedule your engagement session? The time of year or day can impact not only the look of your session, but your planning process. Here are the top 3 things to think about when selecting a date for your pre-wedding photo shoot.

Are you sending a save the date and do you want a photo on it? If so you want to schedule your session more than 6 months out from your wedding date. Check with your photographer on how long it will take to receive the images after the session. Why? Etiquette suggests sending your save the dates 6 months in advance of your wedding so you want your edited images by 7 months so you can design, order and mail your cards.

Think about the season. This will determine many things like temperatures, what plants are blooming and your attire. We see couples that want to plan their session in the same season as the wedding and others the opposite. Think about what you want your photos to look like and ask your photographer for help in selecting the right time of year.

Last, think about your availability and time of day. While planning the wedding you will likely use up allot of your PTO. Because engagement sessions are typically shot the 2-3 hours of sunlight this means in the summer months you can schedule your photos after work hours. For example, in the winter with a 5:30 sunset time you would start by 3:30 – meaning you would for sure need to take the day off work. In the summer the sun can set at 8:00 pm allowing you to begin at 6!

Need help deciding when to schedule your pre-wedding photos? Let us know so we can get you on the calendar!