session details, tips, and answers
engagement session
It's best to schedule your engagement session 6–8+ months before your wedding, especially if you're wanting to use your photos as Save The Dates. I've also shot engagements closer to the wedding day. It just depends on what you need them for. Each season offers a unique backdrop for gorgeous photos – even winter! I shoot engagement sessions on weekday mornings or evenings since I am working weddings on the weekends. The session's time of day will depend on the season and location.
When you're ready to schedule your 60-90 minute session, please email at madisonmartinbusiness@gmail.com so I can secure your date in my calendar.
scheduling
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There are countless buildings, parks, and more around Huntsville that can accommodate your engagement session. I highly recommend picking a spot that's special to you and your fiancé. Over the years, I've been to dozens of locations with couples. Select 'next' to view my top engagement sessions locations.
Downtown Huntsville definitely has the most variety when it comes to picture spots. There are many churches, banks, rooftops, and nooks that would make for the perfect image. The most popular spots are First UMC, Church of the Nativity Episcopal, the Bank, City Hall, US Courthouse, Constitution Village, and a variety of parking decks and pretty buildings.
Downtown Huntsville
Walk a few streets over and you'll find some of the prettiest neighborhood streets for pictures. Some of my favorite streets are Franklin, Adams, Holmes, Bannister Lane, and Figures Alley. This is great for people wanting an urban look with some greenery.
Downtown Huntsville Neighborhoods
Here is a park that is good for muddy days. There are plenty of spots for variety here, and plenty of concrete to keep your feet dry. I just hope you aren't scared of ducks!
Big Spring Park
This is one of my favorite spots especially if you catch it at the right time. Spring blooms are beautiful here... it is a garden after all! If you have booked your wedding here, you don't have to worry about the $50 photography fee.
botanical Gardens
If you're wanting a simple, nature look. This is your spot. There is an open field, a bridge, a pond, and plenty of woods. It is a very popular spot on pretty days.
Hays Nature Preserve
This place takes the cake for the best view. Located about an hour away from Huntsville, Section's Weathington Park always makes for the best, glowy sunsets. It can be windy, so bring your hairspray and fabric tape.
weathington Park
If you need a view closer to home, I recommend Monte Sano State Park. It's $5/person, but you'll love the rock wall overlooking the city. This is only about five minutes from downtown Huntsville.
Monte Sano State Park
With a $50 photography fee, you'll be able to use Mooresville as a backdrop for your engagements. This is such a cute town. My favorite spot is the old church. Look at those columns!
Mooresville
If you're interested in this location, shoot me an email. This spot holds a special place in my heart. There are plenty of spots for variety including an open field with a mountain in the back, a pond, and a black, wooden fence. There are cows around, so I wouldn't suggest it if you are scared of farm animals.
Private Land
Other options near Huntsville include: Village of Providence, Burritt on the Mountain ($12/person), Hampton Cove Waterfall, Downtown Guntersville, Ditto Landing, Guntersville Lake, Sharon Johnston Park, Madison County Nature Trail, etc.
I'm also willing to travel for engagements and can specially quote your location. I shoot in Birmingham often and charge $150 extra for travel to BHM locations.
Other Options
best for: fall, winter
best for: spring, summer
best for: spring, summer
best for: fall, winter
best for: all seasons
best for: all seasons
best for: all seasons
best for: All Seasons
empty your pockets
no neon colors
avoid Tiny, Busy Patterns (Small stripes and checks)
when in doubt, go neutral
make sure you're comfortable
use complimentary colors
Picking your outfit color palette and planning your outfits for your engagement session is the first (and most important) step in creating gorgeous photos! While you should consider the weather, it's best to be comfortable and confident in what you wear. I've collected some do's and don'ts for picking out your two outfits along with some outfit inspiration from previous couples.
outfit inspiration
03.
take advantage of a hair/makeup trial
get a manicure for close-up shots
clean your engagement ring
Pampering yourself is always a great idea, right?! Although not necessary, there are a few to-dos that will elevate your engagement photos:
trust me as your expert photographer
relax, have fun, and just be you
There's absolutely no reason to worry about your session. I like to look at your session as a way to get to know each other and have some fun! As you approach your session, keep in mind these 2 things:
session tips:
04.
I've had plenty of people say this, but at the end of the session I've actually had guys say "That was actually fun!" This session will teach y'all how I work and hopefully get you comfortable in front of the camera!
06. What if my fiance hates pictures?
I typically deliver around 60-75 images for an engagement session, but sometimes I get shutter crazy and deliver more!
05. How many pictures can I expect?
I'm known for a fast turnaround time! You will receive your online gallery within two weeks of our session.
04. How long does it take to get my images back?
If the weather is bad on the day of your session, we can reschedule. I try and wait until the night before or lunch on the day of to call it. Alabama weather is pretty crazy!
03. What if it rains?
You get two outfits (one outfit change) for your session. You can add more for $50/outfit.
02. How many outfits do I get for my session?
Your engagement session includes one location within 40 miles. I charge a specially quoted travel fee for locations outside of that. EX: Downtown Birmingham: $150 separately invoiced to you. Extra locations are $50.
01. How many locations do I get for my session?
Have a question about your engagement session? I've got an answer! And if you don't see your question here, please reach out via email: madisonmartinbusiness@gmail.com.
FAQs
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