What To Know About Your Engagement Session
What To Know About Your Engagement Session
Your engagement session is more than just a photoshoot — it's a way to celebrate your love story, capture the excitement leading up to your big day, and get comfortable with the camera before the wedding. Here's everything you need to know to make the most of this experience with Alex Knight Studio.
What Is an Engagement Session?
An engagement session is all about capturing the love and joy you share before you walk down the aisle. It's a beautiful way to freeze this unique moment in your relationship — the time before the vows, when everything feels fresh and exciting. Whether you're planning to use the photos for save-the-dates, wedding invitations, or simply to frame and hang in your home, they will forever serve as a reminder of this special season in your life.
This session is also the perfect way to get to know each other before the big day. You'll get a feel for how we work behind the camera, and more importantly, you'll get comfortable being in front of it. We'll guide you through the process, offering tips on how to pose naturally and helping you discover which angles and expressions flatter you most. By the time your wedding rolls around, you'll feel more relaxed and confident about nailing those wedding day photos!
How Long Is a Typical Engagement Session?
Our typical engagement session lasts between 1 to 1.5 hours. This gives us enough time to explore a few different locations, capture both close-up and full-length shots, and allow for any outfit changes you might have planned.
Of course, if we're in a busy area like the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, we might take a little longer to get those perfect shots. If you're planning to change outfits, please keep in mind that certain clothing items may take longer to switch into, so it's a good idea to factor that into our session time.
What Time Do We Usually Do Our Engagement Sessions?
The best time for an engagement session is during golden hour — the hour or so before sunset. This soft, warm light gives everything a romantic glow and flatters all skin tones. It’s the perfect time to capture those dreamy, glowing shots that look magical and timeless.
However, we understand that every couple's schedule is different. If you're more interested in an earlier shoot or even a night session with city lights in the background, we are happy to accommodate your preferences.
What Should We Wear?
We suggest bringing two outfits for variety: one formal and one casual. Please arrive in your formal outfit so we can start shooting right away. Your formal attire doesn’t have to be too elaborate — think of something you'd wear to a nice dinner or a wedding. For the casual look, something comfortable yet stylish will do the trick.
When packing your casual outfit, use a duffle bag that Alex can easily carry while shooting. This keeps your hands free to focus on each other. Please avoid bringing garment bags or heavy items — the session will likely involve some walking around, and we want you to feel light and relaxed.
As for color choices, we recommend soft neutrals like beige, navy, white, or black. These colors are timeless and photograph beautifully in natural light. Avoid bold patterns like stripes or polka dots, as they can distract from the overall composition of the image.
Where Should We Go?
New York and its surrounding areas offer a vast array of breathtaking locations for your engagement session, each with its own unique charm and character. Whether you're dreaming of a romantic stroll through the city's iconic parks, a chic, urban backdrop with cobblestone streets, or a serene escape surrounded by lush gardens, there’s a location to match your style and personality. From the vibrant energy of Manhattan to the historic beauty of Brooklyn and beyond, these settings provide the perfect canvas to capture the essence of your love story.
Whether you’re drawn to the natural beauty of greenery and flowers or prefer the hustle and bustle of the city skyline, we’ll work with you to select the locations that resonate most with your vision. Here are some of our favorite spots, ranging from easily accessible parks to more private, exclusive venues that require a permit. No matter the setting, these locations will provide a stunning backdrop to create timeless photos that reflect your unique connection.
Central Park
The classic option, Central Park offers everything from lush greenery to iconic landmarks like Bow Bridge and Bethesda Terrace.
You can learn more about our Central Park Engagement Sessions here.
Dumbo
With sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge, Dumbo offers a perfect mix of urban and scenic backdrops.
Soho/Tribeca
Known for its cobblestone streets and industrial charm, this area is perfect for a chic, city-inspired session.
New York Botanical Garden
A lush, expansive oasis in the Bronx featuring vibrant seasonal blooms, peaceful pathways, and beautiful landscapes perfect for a nature-inspired engagement session.
Brooklyn Botanical Garden
A peaceful oasis with vibrant gardens, perfect for capturing intimate moments surrounded by nature.
Williamsburg
A trendy neighborhood with graffiti murals, quaint streets, and waterfront views for a modern, urban feel.
Fort Greene Park
A quiet, leafy space offering natural beauty and historical charm.
Highline / Meatpacking District
A perfect blend of urban edge and natural beauty, this area offers elevated park views with lush greenery, striking modern architecture, and the historic charm of cobblestone streets.
Long Beach
A serene seaside location on Long Island, offering soft sandy shores, ocean views, and the perfect blend of relaxation and romance for a beach-inspired engagement session.
Your Own Home
If you’re looking for a more intimate and personal setting, your home can be the perfect backdrop for your engagement session. It’s a space filled with memories, where you can relax and truly be yourselves.
PERMIT-REQUIRED LOCATIONS
Old Westbury Gardens
A stunning estate with manicured gardens, perfect for couples seeking an elegant, romantic backdrop.
Skylands Manor
With its historic architecture and expansive gardens, Skyland Manor is a breathtaking choice for timeless, fairytale-like photos.
Wave Hill
A serene estate overlooking the Hudson River, offering botanical gardens and river views for a naturally elegant setting.
Art Factory Studios
This industrial space in New Jersey provides a unique, artsy vibe with its rustic charm and raw textures, ideal for creative couples.
For any locations outside of NYC (e.g., Long Island or New Jersey), there will be a travel fee to cover transportation.
____________
Your engagement session is more than just a rehearsal for the wedding day photos — it’s a celebration of your love story. It's a time to connect, laugh, and enjoy each other's company while we capture the moments that reflect your relationship. Trust the process, relax in front of the camera, and most importantly, have fun! You'll walk away with images you'll cherish forever — a reminder of the excitement and joy that comes with this chapter of your life.
We can't wait to capture your love story!