Being a wedding photographer based out of Northeast Pennsylvania comes with many options for locations. There is no doubt how beautiful NEPA is. We are surrounded by so many options whether its a hidden lake or trip in the trees or maybe a run through a green meadow with wild flowers. But sometimes people forgot of this option. What about an In home session? It can be a spot in your own home or renting a quaint air bnb to share a session with your lover.

Why I think an in home session should be something you should consider.

We go through a period of time in Pennsylvania where the trees are bare and everything is dull, snow and brown. Instead of hoping the weather holds out during this time of year why not find a cute place to get cozy at and save the stress of the weather being unpredictable.

If you just got a new home this would be the perfect time to celebrate that. What about a special moment to share with your pets? I know how special a pet can mean to someone and adding them into your engagement photos is fun and something to always remember.

This can be a chance to take photos in a place you spend the most time together. Getting snuggled on your couch, hanging out in your kitchen making coffee, the place you relax together in a warm bath, or the moments you spend wrapped in each others arms watching movies and reading books in bed. All of these things we do every day, mean something.

Using this style for engagement photos is a chance to document your love and the things you do daily with one another in a comfortable setting.

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A few shots of what an in home session could look like.

I love where I live. I love the people I meet here and the people I’ve grown up with. I love all the seasons we go through in NEPA. We get the spring, fall, winter and summer feelings. We also get the benefit of all the beautiful state parks that surround us. We can hike and hang out there a thousand times and still each time find a new undiscovered place within.

Meeting Marissa and Pauly felt effortless. It had felt like we have had a friendship for years already. Did you ever meet those kind of people? They were laid back with a sense of humor and adventure. Most importantly they trusted me.

It is so important to trust your photographer during an engagement session. I love input. I want to know your thoughts. And I want to make your vision come to life. To do that, I need you to trust me.

Im going to give a few pointers/ tips that make an engagement session more stress free so you can actually be in an environment that you feel relaxed and having fun rather then stressing you get the perfect shot for your save the date!

First thing is first be yourself. You don’t have to be a certain way. I don’t want you to be a certain way. I want you to have fun. I want these photos to showcase who you guys are as a couple. This is not a business meeting or a standard appointment. Throw professionalism out the window.
Wear something comfortable! This is by far a must do. Who wants to spend the entire session picking at themselves or covering themselves up because they picked clothes that are too tight and clingy. Have you guys ever put something on and as soon as you got to your location regretted it? Yea, I have so many times too. So make sure when choosing the outfit you pick something that is comfortable. We will be standing, sitting, running, walking. I want you to feel like a million bucks.
Steam or iron the outfits ahead of time. I myself am a person who never does this. But if you are investing in a professional photographer for pictures that will most likely be on cards and save the dates then I suggest taking the time for this. It is not possible for us to edit every wrinkle out of your clothes. I believe this will also make you feel more confident!
Set your scene! Location can have sentimental value, the small coffee shop in Wilkes-barre where you met or your quaint sweet valley hometown. I am personally not a huge prop person. But is there something that is personal and rings true to you two as a couple? Pizza, picnics, Champagne, pizza and beer? Bring it. We can make your session a date that is personalized for you two. And end it with you both snuggling in each others arms wrapped in your favorite blanket.
Schedule your session for Golden hour. This is my favorite time of day. As I think it is most people, photographers or not. Who doesn’t like the sunset? This is the time of day that the light is the best. Creamy warm tones. Ahhh its my favorite!! You might think early afternoon would be better to plan your day around but I promise you the lighting matters! Then after you can plan a little date and have dinner after your session.

I think taking control and doing these things to prepare you for your engagement photos will leave you feeling less anxious and in a better mindset about the experience. If you have questions just reach out to your photographer. Send them pictures of your outfit choices. ASK QUESTIONS! We want you to feel prepared, confident, and excited to hang out with us.

Some photos of Marissa + Pauly’s engagement session

In Home Engagement Session Northeast Pennsylvania | Cassandra Weber Photography

Engagement Session Inside Tips From A Northeast, PA Wedding Photographer | Marissa + Pauly

From My Perspective