YOUR PORTRAIT SESSION GUIDE

You look good in photos when you're relaxed. Portraits are an excuse to get in front of a camera so that it's smooth sailing on the wedding day.

when

I shoot portraits year round. I think scheduling closer to the wedding is more beneficial.

Portraits can only be scheduled on weekdays. The best light is usually at sunset, so I start around 1h 10m before then. To find the sunset time, just Google the date and location - 'sunset newcastle nov 7'. If you work office hours, daylight savings (October to April) can make things easier, as you get to your shoot without needing time off work.

If you're having a hair / makeup trial, scheduling this for the same day is a great idea.
backlit watagan forest rain engagement photo

where

Travel is included within an hour of Newcastle, but I love shooting new locations. My furthest portraits were in San Francisco so if you have something further away in mind, please ask! 

Is there somewhere special to you as a couple? Somewhere you like to visit? The path you walk your dog along, or your favourite cafe/bar. It could be the area you grew up in, or currently live.  Do you or someone you know have access to property? Does your work or sport club have something available? I shoot in parks & beaches, but have also used city streets, farms, sand dunes, warehouses, pubs, vineyards and couple's own homes.

You can find some popular spots close to Newcastle listed here.

what to wear

Wear what you feel comfortable in.

- Leave everything in the car. Sunglasses, phones, umbrellas and bags kill the flow of the session, as well as creating pocket bulges where there shouldn't be. I bring a small bag that can hold your wallet + keys.

- Avoid large lettering + logos.

- It's better to lean on the formal side than casual - think of it like going out for a date.

- Choosing something with a bold colour can help you pop from the background.

- Think about your shoe choice. If we're walking across sand, rocks or long grass, wearing heels will not be worth it. 
red lipstick engagement photo

pets

I love including pets! This works one of two ways :

- I come to your place for pet shots before heading to our second location.

- If they're coming with us, have a friend tag along to help out. You can't relax if you're keeping one eye on your pet, especially when we're around people and roads.
engagement photo on the farm with a cow
Portraits always leave you more confident at the end than you were at the beginning. Don't worry about your first few minutes, the best shots always come at the end. 

Images take around a week to be delivered via online gallery, where you can download them ASAP. A copy is also included on the wedding USB in due time.