Chicago In-Home Engagement Session
Chicago In-Home Engagement Session
Something about in-home engagement sessions holds a special place in my heart. While many people look at engagement sessions as some big fancy event, and trust me… they can be, others may have a different type of vision. When the pandemic broke out, many couples and photographers had to figure out a way to improvise and innovate their creativity. Many people were stuck indoors but still wanted a way to celebrate this big milestone in their lives - here enters in-home sessions. Now I’m not saying that they were invented because of the pandemic, but they definitely became more and more prominent which tbh… I’m not mad about. The purpose of in-home sessions is all about creating a more welcoming and comforting environment. Not only for the couple themselves, but looking back on your photos as well. It’s a reflection of you and your space and what makes up your unique love story. The pets that you have running around the living room, the blankets sprawled perfectly across the couch and that perfectly placed fruit bowl on the counter in your kitchen. While everything has been meticulously organized for your photos, it still is a representation of YOU!
For this engagement session with Lauren and Nick, we wanted something that really showed off their gorgeous home space and of course their adorable pup, Nala. So it’s easy to say that when I first arrived I was absolutely STUNNED by how beautifully decorated their home was. It was filled with so much natural light and had a very warm and inviting presence to it. So basically I’m taking notes. We mainly focused on shooting in their main living/kitchen area and basically had them pretend like I’m not there. Just remember that during your sessions that I am essentially your professional third wheel! Outside of their home, Lauren and Nick have this beautiful wooded area with a trail so we decided to take a quick stroll with their pup, Nala. Probably one of my favorite parts about being a photographer is the connections that I get to build with my couples. From the moment that they inquire with me to the moment that I meet with them for their engagement/wedding, I am always there. We establish a connection and bond which I think is so important for any couple looking for a wedding photographer. I feel so honored to have been there for Lauren and Nick during this incredibly special moment for them. In-home engagement sessions take a lot of vulnerability and I am so happy that I was able to capture this beautiful time for them.
So I know what you’re probably thinking, “ Hana how do I even prepare for a session like this? What do I even wear?” well my friends… I got you!
What to Wear to your In-Home Engagement Session
The main thing you want to remember if you’re shooting an in-home session is that couples tend to be wearing much more comfortable clothes than a typical engagement session. That’s because well… you may not be wearing a gown while sitting watching your favorite movie on the couch. If you are though, more power to you! Typically you are much more relaxed and yourself when you’re in your home. Your home is your safe haven, so you want your photos to reflect how you normally would be in your home… maybe just a bit more elevated. So my best tip for you, for anyone wanting an in-home engagement session is to dress fashionably comfortable. Nothing too far off from what you would typically wear but still making sure you still look and feel like you.
Remember that the most important thing is that you have fun and be yourself. You want your engagement photos or any photos for that matter to be a reminder of this moment in time. You want to be able to look back and remember these moments forever. Feel what you felt in that very moment and don’t take it too seriously!
Oh and if you loved this Chicago In-Home Engagement session, then you’re going to love this Cliffside Engagement Session!
