Photography primarily depends on good light. Honestly, you could do senior or engagement photos in an auto salvage yard…and with good golden hour lighting, you’d look like movie stars on the set of some indie film!!! That’s the stuff of dreams (or at least mine from 10 years ago)….
That said, there’s no perfect location for your engagement session. A variety of factors play into choosing a space and season for your couple’s photos! Any good photographer will help you brainstorm ideas, and since that is who I try to be, let me be your internet bestie for a minute. ;)
Consider season: springtime is vibrant, cooler/less humid, and full of blooming color; summer has the longest days with bright tones and light; autumn has changing and deepening tones that turn muted; and winter is often most overcast but the sunny winter days with snow are my FAVORITE.
Consider time of day: early morning light gets brighter faster than evening, but in the hottest part of the year, it’s typically cooler and often less humid. Middle of the day is least ideal, as it is most bright (especially in summer). Golden hour varies between 4pm (winter) and 8pm (summer solstice) but is most popular. Keep in mind that you’ll likely need to free up a weekday evening for any session that isn’t a wedding!!!
Consider location: do you want spots to sit and lean? Choose an urban spot downtown with alleys, brick walls, etc! do you want a picnic in the truck bed with a soybean field in the background? Ask your parents’ farmer friend if you can use theirs! Maybe you want to grab drinks at your favorite bar, take a walk around a local lake, or have another unique idea in mind! Either way, communicate this with your photographer- or tell them you don’t have a strong preference and they’ll choose a place to meet!
A few more ideas to get your creativity wheels turning below!!
College campus grounds are always pretty! The above photo was taken at ISU in Ames, but Drake University and Grandview in DSM both have gorgeous spots. These locations are fun to include, regardless if you’re alum or not!
If you have a season of the year, or environment you want to make sure we capture, the sooner you reach out the better! Each year varies drastically, between weather and schedules, so I want to make sure to serve you best I can.
Each season of the year bring such beauty in Iowa. Summer is humid and hot- so cooling off in water (be it a lake, pool, or stream!) can be a fun way to end your engagement session. Pick your favorite hiking or fishing spot for part of your photos.
Water Works is a madhouse in springtime, so be prepared to work around other photographers and groups of people. Be kind and courteous, please- but don’t be afraid to choose this location.
Downtown Des Moines hosts many unique spots- hidden parks, historic architecture, and even modern art tucked around corners. Park in a garage or on the street & then wander around with me during golden hour!