3 Trends Impacting the Tastes and Styles of Today’s Engagement Session Clients

Photo © Pat Furey

A Catalogue Feel
“Lately, I find myself putting in more work on the back end to pull off more of a catalogue feel for couples. I documented a wedding on the Brooklyn Bridge a few years back that was the Rangefinder November 30 Rising Stars cover in 2013, as well as on J.Crew’s front page. Since then I’ve noticed a lot more couples wanting to channel that sort of lookbook, editorial style—it’s what I like doing anyway, so it’s been a natural progression. 

Photo © Pat Furey

Couples are asking for things a bit less ‘engagement shoot-like,’ and more style-forward. Our engagement shoots now are slowed down in pace, and much more produced. I’d say to progress, always be aiming for what you enjoy doing, and over time you’ll find that your couples will start to hire you for that. A win-win!“  —Pat Furey

Photos © Spencer Lum, 5 West Studios

Outside Influence
“I’ve noticed stronger and stronger influences coming outside of wedding photography—things drawn from street photography, fine art and fashion—and a willingness to embrace greater levels of spontaneity at all levels. For example, imperfections like hair blowing in the wind, quirkiness beyond simple handholding and staring at the camera, more delicate use of hands and body language, and a sense of subtle disconnection and distance in some poses. 

Photos © Spencer Lum, 5 West Studios

In general, there’s a tendency of modern wedding photographers who are willing to go beyond some of the more common lifestyle conventions and expressions of joy to explore something that’s less on the nose and more in the mood and the feel.“ —Spencer Lum

Photo © Kristen Marie Parker

Sentimental Over Epic Locations
“I’ve had a few clients over the years opt to have their photos done at home, and once I realized it created a different atmosphere, I’ve encouraged couples to keep sentiment in mind when they start to dream up photo locations. Not only are couples familiar with the space, but they’re also more comfortable. When they’re home, they’re relaxed and at peace—it’s where they spend a majority of their relationship. 

Photo © Kristen Marie Parker

While I do love the chance to get out and adventure, there’s something so timeless about being able to document a couple’s first home together. In some cases, we’ve made use of the ambient light in their homes or near their favorite restaurants and bars, especially if we ended up documenting their session past sundown. There’s been a shift in comfort when you document couples in their element (either at home or walking to their favorite neighborhood spots) over hiking out to a grand location. Plus, it saves on hiking time!“  — Kristen Marie Parker

CreativeLive Video Tutorial: Lifestyle Engagement Photography: Shoots That Work