Welcome to the second part of my Engagement Shoot series! Today we’re going to be talking all about location, location, location.
I knew pretty early on that we wanted an urban vibe for our photos, so I spent a ton of time on Pinterest looking at downtown Austin shoots for inspo. Our photographer Sam Hugh and I went back and forth for weeks brainstorming different ideas, but nothing ever felt 100% right.
One day I stumbled across a couple who did a causal coffee house engagement shoot in NYC and I couldn’t stop looking at the post! I loved how natural it was, but still gave off the urban vibe we were looking for.
I sent Sam a link to the blog post and he responded quickly with a “lets do it!” and suggested we start at Merit Coffee in Downtown Austin and then make our way into the city.
When I sat back to think about Merit, I realized how perfect that location actually was. Ben and I love Merit for coffee dates and our first apartment together was just a few blocks away. Everything about the shoot suddenly clicked and the location felt so right – this was our neighborhood and somewhere that evoked amazing memories for us as a couple.
Tips for Picking a Location
Some people know the exact location they want and that’s great! But a lot of the time it’ll take research and brainstorming with your photographer to find the right spot for the look you’re going for. If you fall into the latter category, Pinterest will be become your new best friend – so grab a glass of wine, sit back, relax and start searching!
Some things to consider on your hunt for the perfect spot:
First
What type of look are you going for? Do you want somewhere out in nature? A city vibe? Home shots? Remember that these photos are a chance for you to try something new or get that photo you’ve always wanted, so don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone!
Think about the type of images you’re looking for and then narrow down locations from there.
Second
I loved taking photos in a spot that meant something to us a couple. I would highly recommend incorporating a few photos like that if you can! It can be a neighborhood you love, a restaurant you frequent, a coffee shop or just a special area where you have some memories – think of where you first met or said I love you.
If you have a spot in mind, but you’re feeling a little uneasy about crowds or current indoor mask policies, I learned that a lot of restaurants/shops/coffee houses will allow you to take photos privately in their space with a small fee. Asking can’t hurt if it’s somewhere you love!
Third
Don’t be afraid to pick more than one location (as long as your engagement package allows that). The locations we choose were all within walking distance, but Sam made it clear that we could shoot in one spot and then drive to another. Ask your photographer what the limits are and then assess your options from there.
Fourth
Trust your photographer! Photographers are creative souls and typically have a ton of experience behind the camera and in your city. That means they have eye for amazing photo opportunities that you may not recognize. If you’re on the same page with the type of photos you’re looking for, then do your best to trust their suggestions!
Fifth
At the same time, don’t be afraid to say no! Not every location suggested to you will be your cup of tea and you may have reasons behind it that your photographer isn’t aware of.
For example, our photographer originally suggested we hit some murals in downtown Austin! Usually, I would love that idea – I mean, we got engaged in front of mural lol so he was spot with the idea. But Ben and I have a ton of photos at murals around town and I pictured something different and more editorial for these photos.
At first I was nervous to say no, I didn’t want to seem difficult. But I decide to shoot over an email with my reasoning and he totally understood and we kept on brainstorming!
At the end of the day, the most important thing is that you’re happy with these photos, so take your time picking out locations and don’t be afraid to share your ideas and collaborate with your team!
Did I miss any important notes on picking a location? If so, leave them below!
Our Locations: Merit Coffee, The Spring Condo building, black and white wall by Trader Joes, Austin Power Plant, ivy wall at The Republic, La Condesa, South 1st bridge.
Photographer: Sam Hugh
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