Discover why I bring my Pentax 6x7 medium format camera to every wedding I photograph. From the timeless beauty of film to the intentionality of each shot, see how this classic camera, paired with Kodak Portra film, allows me to capture love stories in a way that feels authentic and cinematic.
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Choosing the Perfect Outfit for Your Engagement Session: A Seasonal Guide
Discover the secret to looking effortlessly stylish in your engagement photos with our seasonal outfit guide. From the soft pastels of spring and the bold colors of summer to the cozy layers of fall and the elegant sparkle of winter, we've got you covered. Each season brings its own charm, and choosing the right outfit can elevate your engagement session to the next level. Whether you're dancing among the spring blossoms, basking in the summer sun, embracing the rich hues of fall, or cuddling up in the winter chill, let your love shine through in every shot. Join Rich at Richard J Nieves Photography for more tips and to capture your love story in style.
Read MoreCapturing Love at Proprietors Park: Lisa and Mike's Enchanting Engagement Session
5 Cool and Stylish Outfit Ideas for Hot and Humid Summer Engagement Sessions
Summer is in full swing, and love is in the air! If you're planning to capture your engagement moments in the midst of the sizzling heat and soaring humidity, fret not. We've got you covered with five chic and comfortable outfit suggestions for couples of all genders. Whether you're strolling through the urban streets or embracing nature's beauty, these outfit ideas will ensure you look and feel your best during your scorching summer engagement session.
Light and Breezy Boho Vibes
For the ladies, a flowy maxi dress in a pastel shade can keep you feeling cool and confident. Pair it with strappy sandals or espadrilles to add a touch of elegance. Complete the look with delicate accessories like layered necklaces or a statement bracelet. Gentlemen can rock a linen button-down shirt with tailored shorts and comfortable loafers. Don't forget a stylish fedora or a wide-brimmed hat to shield from the sun.
Casual Chic Coordination
Couples can keep it casual yet stylish with coordinated outfits. Opt for complementary colors or patterns that reflect your personalities. Ladies, consider a lightweight jumpsuit or romper paired with espadrilles or sneakers. Gents, a well-fitted short-sleeved shirt with slim-fit chinos and canvas sneakers can exude a relaxed charm. This look is perfect for capturing candid, carefree moments.
Classic White and Denim
A timeless choice that suits all genders is the classic white-and-denim combo. Ladies can opt for a crisp white sundress with strappy sandals, while guys can go for a white shirt and dark denim jeans. This effortlessly chic look complements any background and creates a light and airy vibe that's perfect for summer.
Sporty Elegance
For active and adventurous couples, a sporty yet elegant ensemble can be just the ticket. Ladies can slip into a stylish athleisure dress or a moisture-wicking tank and high-waisted leggings. Complete the look with comfortable sneakers and a trendy visor. Gents can sport moisture-wicking shorts paired with a well-fitted athletic tee and sneakers. This outfit is ideal for engagement sessions that involve outdoor activities or exploring urban landscapes.
Tropical Escape
Embrace the summer spirit with tropical-inspired attire. For the ladies, a vibrant floral sundress and espadrille wedges can create a lively and playful look. Men can opt for a patterned short-sleeved shirt, khaki shorts, and boat shoes for a relaxed yet put-together appearance. The tropical theme adds a fun and colorful twist to your engagement photos.
When the sun is shining and the temperatures are rising, your engagement session outfits should not only look stunning but also keep you feeling comfortable. These five outfit ideas cater to couples of all genders, ensuring you're ready to embrace the heat and capture your love in the most beautiful way possible. Remember, the key is to choose outfits that reflect your personalities and make you feel confident and fabulous as you embark on this exciting journey together. So, get ready to create lasting memories while looking effortlessly stylish during your hot and humid summer engagement session!
Amanda & Rich's Engagement Session | Longwood Gardens
Angela and Brandon's Engagement Session at Pine Lake Park, NJ
Simple and Beautiful | A Pine Lake Park Engagement Session | Richard J Nieves Photography
One of the skills you must have as a wedding photographer is the ability to guide a pose from clients that is authentic and characteristic of them and their relationship.
I’d say it’s honestly the most difficult tasks as a photographer, especially a wedding photographer who works with different people on a regular basis.
You want to show and celebrate the couple’s love for each other and show their viewers that this couple absolutely loves each other.
How do you do that?
What I do is set my expectations. Essentially, I completely demolish them going into a session. I immediately have stories in my head, as I work my couples, that I want to see. I’m driven by cinema. I turn their session into a short film and I figure out the way the story is going to go through photography. The story is of the couple just being together. Loving each other as only they know how.
Simple and beautiful. How do I convey a simple and beautiful rendition of their love through my eyes?
Those are the thoughts and roads my mind goes through as I’m working with couples.
Maggie and Kevin's Engagement Session
Karina and Zach's Engagement Session | Sandy Hook, NJ
For engagement sessions, I recommend my couple’s choose a place that means something to them. I want the place to help jog memories they enjoy and that will allow us to build up those feelings as we photograph together.
Karina and Zach chose Sandy Hook because it was the location of their first date. It was a great choice.
It was my first time going there. I was truly in awe at how serene it was at the time.
FYI if you want to get into the beach area we were in, you need to pay $20. They take cash, card, and contactless payment!
My Favorite Engagement Photography Photos + Engagement Photography Pricing
If weddings are the main course, the engagement photo sessions are the delicious appetizers for what’s to come.
Photographing these engagement sessions is absolute joy. The amount of fun and emotion during engagement sessions is almost paramount to the wedding day itself.
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