Spring Engagement Session Planning tips In Coastal Virginia

Freemason District Norfolk VA

Selina &

Harrison

Virginia is a beautiful state with a wide variety of locations to choose from when planning a photo session. For example, when you envision spring in Virginia what pops into your head? Lush green grass and beautiful blooms, right? This is true BUT those blooms and grass do not start showing off on the first day of Spring (typically in March). 

Let’s dive in a little deeper on some behind the scenes tips for planning a springtime photo session:

*My First tip. Once you confirm a date with your photographer, start your allergy medication a few days prior to prevent any allergy flare ups. (No one wants to look puffy when the pollen strikes)

*My Second tip. Think about your start times depending on which month you decide to schedule! Start times are best an hour before sunset. This can range greatly in the spring time here.

If you decide for March sunset begins around 6 pm in the early month, so I would recommend starting around 5pm. Keep in mind there is a time change in this month, which will then push your start time back an hour. Meaning, towards the end of the month you will end up starting those sessions around 6- 6:30 pm.

In the month of April you will start around 6:45 and almost 7pm as the month goes on.

When May hits, you better be sure to eat dinner or pack a snack before you go because you will be starting around 7:00-7:15 to capture that good golden light around 8:00 pm. (or plan for a romantic dinner date when you are done since you will already be dressed up!)

*My third tip. Keep in mind the weather variations with each month!

When it comes to planning an engagement session, plan on scheduling towards the end of April to make sure you get away from those frosty days that inhibit the growth of blooms.

Keep in mind that the month of May can be tricky. You could have the absolute perfect day, or you can have a very cold gloomy misty evening OR even a blistering hot (basically summer) day of 90 degrees. It is hard to really determine until about 24 hours before your session so be sure to keep in touch with your photographer the day before AND if your photographer allows it, schedule a rain date for safe keeping. That way you and the photographer are not scrambling matching schedules with a tight time crunch.

*My fourth and final tip. Throw some bug spray for those muggy hot evenings!

Christmas maternity shoot : Ashley and Joe

A Virginia Beach Winter Maternity session in rural Virginia

Ashley and Joe are expecting their first sweet baby girl in February, Miss Olivia. What better way to capture this adorable little bump than in a pink dress with a pink and purple sky. Ashley had an adorable idea to incorporate a little Christmas Cheer by adding a red scarf as a bow to her belly. I had so much fun chasing the sunset with these three and in the blink of an eye I know we will be welcoming Miss Olivia in no time! I cant wait to see if she ends up having her gorgeous mommas eyes!!!