There is something about a Fall engagement session that feels effortlessly romantic. The air turns crisp! The trees put on their best show! And every walk through the Hudson Valley seems like it belongs in a movie. IYKYK! If you have your heart set on engagement photos surrounded by vibrant foliage we all love, then this is the post for you. I want to help you navigate how to set yourself up for success. Too many couples leave the planning to the last minute, and end up not being able to make their desired cozy Autumn vibe a reality for their photos.

So here are my top tricks and tips on when to schedule your Fall engagement session! 

The first thing you need to know? Timing is everything. From how far out to book your session, to understanding the dates & times that will be available to you, being familiar with the timing will help you feel like a pro.

Because this is the tough reality: Fall is one of the busiest seasons for photographers. We are all running around like crazy, taking multiple sessions a week and editing every evening. It’s easy to see why everyone wants photos during this season, though!! The changing leaves create SUCH a beautiful backdrop. But that only lasts for a short window. Because of that, sessions tend to book months in advance. For example, it’s July and I’m already booking October sessions.

If you’re really hoping for engagement photos anytime between September and December, it’s a good idea to reach out during the summer. My calendar is often reserved three to four months ahead, and sometimes even earlier. Of course, if you’re planning a little later, don’t hesitate to ask. Last-minute openings do sometimes happen, but flexibility will be your best friend.

Fall Engagement Session Planning Tips

Once your date is secured, there are a few things to keep in mind before your session.

• Plan for a weekday session, since weekends are reserved for weddings.
• Expect your session to begin during golden hour, about one hour before sunset.
• Consider leaving work a little early so you don’t have to rush to your session.
• Plan your outfits to compliment the background. I will walk you through how to do this once you’re booked! 

Those small details make a huge difference. If you’re winging it and hoping to snag a last minute calendar spot, you might not get the date or location you want. If I have availability at all. And I want you to have the very best experience possible. So start thinking ahead earlier than you would think, and reach out to chat logistics in the Summer.

A little preparation will allow us to slow down on the day of your session. We will get to enjoy the evening, and create pictures that really feel like you, in the beauty that is the Fall season.

Another Thing to Consider When Scheduling Your Photos? Golden Hour Makes All the Fall Magic Glow

One of my favorite parts of photographing couples in the fall is the light. Golden hour arrives much earlier than it does in the summer, and that soft evening glow paired with colorful leaves creates the dreamiest atmosphere. Every single one of my sessions in the Fall just gives me chills when I’m editing. I love the warm oranges, glowy yellows and dreamy greens. (You know I’m a photographer when I’m gushing about the color palettes!!) 

Here’s the magical thing about a Fall engagement session though…

Instead of feeling extra posed, your session becomes an experience. We’ll wander through beautiful locations, soak in the season, and document this chapter in your life exactly as it feels. When it’s this gorgeous outside, it’s really easy to get lost in the moment. 

That’s how you end up with a gallery that is not only really, truly reflective of YOU… but also has these stunning warm backgrounds we all love so much!

If you’ve been picturing yourselves surrounded by vibrant autumn colors in your engagement photos, now is the perfect time to start planning.

Booking your Fall engagement session early gives you the best chance at your ideal date, your favorite season, and those iconic Hudson Valley fall colors you’ll love looking back on for years to come. Remember to plan for a weekday at golden hour. And I’ll guide you through the rest of the experience from there!

If you want to connect with me, here’s the place to reach out!