Even when you feel like you’ve seen it all, you really haven’t. The greatest thing about doing what I do is not only getting to work with some of the most amazing couples, but also discovering some hidden gem locations. While planning this engagement session, Sadie and Kevin really wanted these portraits to be a mix of modern & elegant. Not to toot my own horn but, I think we were able to achieve just that. One of my favorite locations to head to for sessions, that truly feels like Pennsylvania’s hidden gem spot is the White Cliffs of Conoy. Stunning views and beautiful landscaping made this Pennsylvania engagement at the White Cliffs of Conoy one to remember.
White Cliffs of Conoy
Located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, the White Cliffs of Conoy is truly a sight to be seen. The White Cliffs of Conoy were actually formed back in 1846. They were formed as a byproduct of years of limestone and dolomite rock being used in a limestone quarry business. Over the years these beautiful rock formations have formed allowing us to have stunning views overlooking the Susquehanna River. Today, the White Cliffs are a huge tourist attraction as well as a location with major photo opportunities. Due to its well-known reputation among locals and being such a unique location, it was the perfect opportunity for Sadie and Kevin to get some beautiful engagement photos.
Pennsylvania Engagement at White Cliffs of Conoy
So in order to get to the White Cliffs, it does require you to do about a mile-long hike. While a bit of a trek, it’s well worth it when you get to see some of these stunning views. As soon as you arrive you’re greeted with this wide opening of rock formations that ultimately make you feel transported to another world. In all honesty, it almost reminds you of being around sand dunes. However, while some places have mile-long sand dunes, here in PA we are given beautiful rocks. I’d say it’s a win-win!
The best time to shoot in my opinion is close to sunset, which I believe showcases the best lighting. Lighting is SUPER important when shooting just about anything, and can ultimately make or break how your photos turn out. Earlier throughout the day, say mid-day, can bring very harsh lighting since the sun is at its peak time. However, waiting closer to the evening gives you lighting that is less harsh and more sun-kissed. Kevin and Sadie were naturals when it comes to posing in front of the camera and looked like models out of a magazine.
What To Wear To An Engagement Session
Sadie wore this beautiful burgundy long-sleeved dress from Lulu’s that paired beautifully with her red hair. To complement her attire, Kevin kept things neutral and simple with a black suit. When it comes to figuring out what to wear to your engagement session, things can get tricky. You of course want clothes to feel like you, but you also want to choose pieces that photograph well too! Here are a few tips that I’ve learned are the best when choosing what to wear to an engagement session.
Complement Each Other, Don’t Match
Choosing complementary colors is what is going to make or break your outfit choices for your engagement session. Rather than wearing matching clothing items, aim to wear clothes that emphasize and bring out each other’s attire. If your partner is wearing something more bold, aim to wear something a bit more neutral to balance everything out.
Wear Clothes You Can Move In
We all know that feeling of wearing a piece of clothing that feels almost impossible to move in. How much fun is that, right? Especially if we’re needing to walk to a certain location, you want to make sure that you and your partner are wearing clothes you can move in. If you’re looking for more candid type imagery, the main thing you want to remember is that movement is key. Pieces that fit properly and are easy to move in will give you that effortless, candid style imagery that is much more authentic.
Wear Clothes You Feel Comfortable In
Along with what I mentioned above, it’s important that you wear clothes that you feel comfortable in. While of course, I am a strong proponent of self-care and dressing the part, you also don’t want to feel completely out of your element. I’m going to let you in on a little secret: uncomfortableness shows on camera. The last thing that you want is to feel uncomfortable and LOOK uncomfortable throughout your session. While your photographer will try everything possible to make you as comfortable as possible, it also starts with you!
Avoid Neons, Heavy Patterns & Logos
While making a statement may seem like a good idea when getting professional photos taken, they can tend to become distracting. Have you ever looked at an image and something felt “off” that you just couldn’t shake? Yeah, well that happens often when individuals choose to wear bright neon colors, heavy patterns, and bold logos. Rather than focusing on your beautiful selves, you’re often left distracted by what you’re wearing. I can guess that this is not really what you want. You want to be able to look back at your images and feel like your personalities and authentic selves are captured perfectly. Instead of neons, heavy patterns, and logos, aim for more subdued patterns and neutral, less bold tones. Trust me when I tell you this will save you a TON, especially when looking back at your final images.
If you’re loving this Pennsylvania Engagement at White Cliffs of Conoy, feel free to check out this blog for more engagement inspo! Want to jump right to it, get in the books and inquire about booking an engagement session? Click here to fill out my inquiry form!
