session details, tips, and answers
engagement session
It's best to schedule your engagement session 6–8+ months before your wedding, especially if you're wanting to use your phots as Save The Dates. Each season offers a unique backdrop for gorgeous photos – even winter! The session's time of day will depend on the season and location and will be finalized at booking.
When you're ready to schedule your 1-hour session, please email at info@caseyhphotos.com so I can secure your date in my calendar.
scheduling
01.
There are countless landmarks, buildings, parks, and more around Charlotte that can accommodate your engagement session, but I highly recommend picking a spot that's special to you and your fiancé. Over the years, I've been to dozens of locations with couples. Select 'next' to view my top engagement sessions locations.
The Grand Bohemian in Charlotte is a stunning uptown spot with beautiful light, perfect views, and is totally free to use if they don't have an event going on.Please note - this is NOT a dog-friendly option.
The Grand Bohemian
No matter the season, Midtown Park is a perfect spot for engagements. It has beautiful architecture, a hint of the skyline, and people aren't usually swarmed there. They also have a bathroom halfway through the park for you to change in.
Midtown Park
If you desire very obvious city views, here ya go! And a springtime plus? They have the beautiful and much sought after cherry blossoms mid-march-very early April.
Romare Bearden Park
This place is definitely a more sophisticated vibe with tall pillars and brass doors, and the even lighting all day long makes this find a number one spot in my book!
The District Attorney's Office
Many adore Freedom Park specifically for the water + bridge. This is a good option if you only plan on doing one outfit as there really isn't a good spot to change, and also a good option if you're wanting more nature-like photos.
Freedom park
If a secret garden vibe is your style, this is a solid location for that. The greenway out front offers lots of greenery, and the side and back of this venue have lush florals and that old architecture we know and love.
Mint Museum Randolph
There really isn't a bad spot at this venue, and I absolutely adore the thought they put into their space. You will get uninterrupted time here, amazing light, and of course the inside is stunning as well (also a good rain plan)
$ - Duke Mansion
I'm not going to lie - if I had to redo things, I would absolutely get married here. The Italian villa look is seen all around, and there are ENDLESS options for photo spaces. You also get plenty of time and the entire venue is open only to you. I highly highly recommend this!
$ - The Andrews Farm
Yes, we absolutely can travel for your engagements, and yes, the Biltmore is a favorite! The only additional fees will be covering entry and fuel, but the variety and luxury feel you'll get is absolutely worth it. We can also finish off your session with wine ;)
$ - The Biltmore
This place is to die for, and you'll also get completely uninterrupted photos as they only take on one client at a time. To book, just verify your date with them and pay their session fee. I always recommend around an hour of time and only one outfit to make the most of your time there.
$ - Wing Haven
The biggest plus to this location (other than its beauty) is the fact there's a covered garden so regardless if it rains, your photos won't need to be rescheduled, and will still look stunning. Bonus? They also have a butterfly garden!
$ - Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
Just pay their session fee - other travel costs are
waved for these preferred venues
$ - Other uniquely gorgeous ideas
Graylyn Estate:
Winston Salem NC - fairytale vibes
Hotel Domestique:
Greenville SC - European + Mountains
The Bradford:
New Hill NC - Tuscan countryside feel
Graylyn Estate: Winston Salem NC - fairytale vibes
Hotel Domestique: Greenville SC - European + Mountains
The Bradford: New Hill NC - Tuscan countryside feel
don't forget the weather
no bright or neon colors
avoid bold patterns
when in doubt, go neutral
accent with accessories
use complimentary colors
Picking your outfit color palette and planning your outfits for your engagement session is the first (and most important) step in creating gorgeous photos! While you should consider the weather, it's best to be comfortable and confident in what you wear. I've collected some do's and don'ts for picking out your outfit, along with some outfit inspiration from previous couples.
outfit inspiration
03.
take advantage of a hair/makeup trial
get a manicure for close-up shots
clean your engagement ring
Pampering yourself is always a great idea, right?! Although not necessary, there are a few to-dos that will elevate your engagement photos:
trust me as your expert photographer
relax, have fun, and just be you
There's absolutely no reason to worry about your session. I like to look at your session as a way to get to know each other and have some fun! As you approach your session, keep in mind these 2 things:
session tips:
04.
Your pup may find themselves thirsty from excitement, the heat, or any other factor. Having a bowl and bottle of water handy is a plus.
06.h2o, yo
Schedule a grooming/bath shortly before your session to ensure your pup looks their best!
05. So fresh and so clean
Unless you want your dog in every single photo, having someone else there that your dog is comfortable with will be extremely helpful when you're off changing outfits, when we are focusing on just you two, and having a helping hand is always nice!
04. Bring a human friend
Enough said.
03. Poop bags
Is there a treat your dog will do anything for? Bring it! I can use this for bribing purposes. More interested in that squeaky toy? Bring it! Whatever your dog is motivated by, bring it.
02. Treats, treats, and more treats
Most of us have the retractable neon-toned leashes, and although it's functional, it's super distracting to a photo. Amazon has some cute neutral leather leashes for around $20, and it makes the biggest difference.
01. Bring a "pretty" leash
Bring your furbabies, and be ready for fuzzy snuggles!
Dog tips
05.