Getting engaged is one of the most exciting times in your life. Even with all of the excitement, however, planning your engagement photography session can lead to unwanted anxiety. Finding and hiring the right Colorado engagement photographer is just half the battle.


You might be freaking out about what to wear, where your photo session should take place, and even what time of day you should schedule it for. To help alleviate the stress of planning your engagement photo session, here are 5 questions you should ask your Colorado engagement photographer.

1. Where Should the Photography Session Take Place?


Whether you’re planning a surprise proposal or you’re getting pictures done after the fact, picking a photography location is often one of the most difficult tasks. Therefore, this should be one of the first questions you ask your photographer. Of course, you can have ideas of your own but you should always ask your photographer for their opinion on a location as well.


There are several things that need to be considered when determining a location for your session. First, you should let your photographer know if you’re planning a surprise proposal. Some locations may make it difficult to pull off a surprise proposal so it’s always important to discuss this with your photographer first.


Another factor to consider is the weather. If you’re planning an engagement photography session outdoors, make sure to discuss a backup plan with your photographer if bad weather occurs. Work out whether the photography session should be rescheduled or moved indoors if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Surprise proposal by Colorado engagement photographer Sara Turbyfill.

2. What Time of day Should I Schedule the Session?


Determining the time of your session is just as important as picking out a location. Lighting must be considered when picking a time for your Colorado engagement photography session. If the photography location is taking place outdoors, then lighting is best during golden hour. Golden hour is a magical time coveted by professional photographers around the world. It occurs twice a day: the first hour after sunrise and the last hour before sunset. This is the best time of day for photography because it produces optimal natural lighting.


Even if your engagement photo session is taking place indoors, you should still consider the time of day. If the indoor location has access to natural lighting, you'll want to discuss this with your photographer to pick out the best time. If natural lighting is not available, ask your photographer if they have lighting equipment. Most photographers have equipment that can be used for indoor sessions where natural lighting is sparse.

Surprise proposal photography in Morrison.

3. What Should I Wear?


Picking out the perfect outfit for your photo session can be challenging. Even though you have a closet full of clothes, you might have a hard time picking something out. This is where asking for your photographer's opinion comes in handy.


In general, it's best to wear something comfortable that makes you feel good. There's nothing more annoying than trying to pose and take pictures in an uncomfortable outfit. Therefore, comfort is always a top priority. Also, when picking out your outfit, try to avoid busy patterns and neon colors like hot pink and lime green. Avoiding vibrant colors and busy patterns will help remove distractions from your photos. Again, if you have any questions about what to wear, it's best to discuss them with your Colorado engagement photographer.

Colorado proposal photography by Sara Turbyfill.

4. What Is The Photography Process Like?


Before your session, it’s imperative that you talk with your engagement photographer about the process from start to finish. If you’re planning a surprise proposal, you must iron out all of the details with your photographer first. Make sure to discuss the exact location where you’d like to propose so that the photographer can hide out and take photos at the appropriate time.


Even if you aren’t planning a surprise proposal, make sure you understand your photographer's process. Depending on the type of photographer you hire, the process may be shorter or longer. When working with a digital file photographer, for example, you’ll likely only meet with the photographer once on the day of the session. The photographer will then follow up with you about 2 weeks later to deliver digital files.


If you’re working with a boutique photographer, however, you’ll meet with your photographer on several occasions. Boutique photographers hold their client’s hand through every step of the process. They often meet in person for a planning session, a photo session, and an ordering session. Regardless of the type of photographer you hire, having the process laid out for you is essential.

Couples portraits by Sara Turbyfill.

5. What ProductS Should I Order?


Finally, you should ask your photographer for assistance with ordering products. This is one thing that's often overlooked when working with a photographer. Most photographers on the market operate as digital photographers; therefore they don’t offer products. However, there are other photographers who operate under a boutique business model. If this happens to be your engagement photographer, then you’re in luck!


Unlike digital photographers, boutique photographers work directly with their clients to help them pick out custom artwork pieces to commemorate their special engagement. When working with a boutique photographer, make sure to ask them for recommendations on the types of products you should order. 

Wall art by Colorado engagement photographer Sara Turbyfill.

Are You ready to Hire a colorado Engagement Photographer?


In conclusion, hiring a Colorado engagement photographer can be an intimidating task. There are so many details to work out, like the time and location of the session. That’s why it’s crucial that you ask your photographer questions before your session. When you’re ready to hire your engagement photographer, be sure to ask the 5 questions listed above to help ease the process.


Hopefully, after reading through this article you feel better prepared to hire a Colorado engagement photographer. If you're still looking for a photographer, I'm a local boutique photographer specializing in Colorado couple portraits. I provide my services throughout the state of Colorado and would be happy to assist you with your engagement. To learn more about my services, click the button below to book your complimentary consultation.