Sunrise Engagement Sessions.
I know what you’re thinking. Who the heck would want to get up before the sun for a photoshoot? I felt the same way. Then I had my first sunrise engagement session. It was one of the coldest weekends of the year, and we were heading to Narragansett, on the rocks by the water. This couple was totally game, and even brought along their three dogs! Since then, I’ve had three more sunrise sessions, and I have loved every one! But there are a few things to note when planning a sunrise session with me. Here are a few tips:
- Pick a location where the sunrise horizon is visible. This way you get the best colors and background light as the sun comes up. Cliffs by water, open fields, or hills/mountains all work well. As the sun comes up, it goes from deep blues to pastels, and so soft and pretty for portraits.
- See if there is a spot that has a tree, or clearing in trees, to offer some great options for silhouettes. Something that highlights or frames you in silhouette.
- Keep the time of year in mind. During late fall through early spring, the sunrise times are later than the rest of the year. So if you’re not a morning person, plan around the cooler months.
- Dress in layers. It tends to be cooler, even during the warmer months. You can always take a sweater or coat off!
- I always bring hot cocoa and tea to my sunrise sessions during the cooler months, as well as bottled water year round. It’s important to stay hydrated, but when cool, I can break out something warm, and even bring hand warmers!
- Footwear! Some spots can be treacherous. Especially rocky spots near water. You can always swap into more fashionable showed once you are in position, but always choose safety first while walking around.
- Insect repellant. Sometimes dawn can bring out the bugs. So, prepare by having insect repellant. Dryer sheets work well, too!
- An early breakfast! The best part of an early start to your day for session, is that you can head out to a favorite breakfast spot afterwards, and make some fun plans for the day!
And if this doesn’t convince you, maybe some images from recent Sunrise Engagement Sessions will show you what I mean! Enjoy! (Blog links: Here, Here, Here, and Here)
