J.Olson's Engagement Shoot Process
Rangefinder Magazine Feature
Recently, Rangefinder Magazine featured one of my NYC engagement shoot photos as their “Eye-Catching Portrait of the Week”. As part of the feature, I was asked about my creative process for the shot, and given the opportunity to share a bit about my philosophy with engagement shoots. You can read more below, and see this engagement shoot gallery by clicking here.
Kevin & Molly // Manhattan, NYC // Shot at ISO 2500, F/1.4, 100/s, using a Canon 35mm and Canon 5D MKIV.
This was the last photo I took during this engagement shoot, and the shot for me that feels the most realistic and authentic to the couple. We had originally started our shoot 6 hours earlier around Central Park, and slowly made our way through Manhattan, stopping to take photos at locations that caught my eye as we went. A 6-hour long engagement shoot might seem strange to most photographers, but it was the accumulation of the experiences we shared that led to this shot.
A while back, I realized just how paramount the experience of the shoot is to how couples view their photos. Having reflected on this, I approach engagement shoots now with only a loose framework and an open mind. I don't cap the amount of time we shoot, the length of the shoot is instead dictated by the couple's energy. I also try not to dwell on a single creative idea for too long throughout the shoot and keep things moving at a natural pace. This flow helps keep the posing looking natural, and lends itself to opportunities for discovery throughout our time together.
During this shoot, we stopped to take photos at a cocktail bar, a restaurant the couple loved, and even their NYC apartment. Along the way, we rode in cabs together, got to know each other over drinks, and ended the night by sharing a meal.
While saying our goodbyes, the perspective lines from the surrounding architecture caught my eye, as had the string lights in the background. I told the couple where to stand for one last shot, and Kevin wrapped his arms around Molly tightly, and she laughed. Other than placing them in the frame, I hadn't given any other direction. They both felt comfortable enough to express themselves this way, a sign that the shoot had been a success.
Want to read the Rangefinder version of this interview? Click here!
Want to see more from Kevin & Molly’s NYC engagement session? Click here!
Does this process resonate with you? Interested in booking an engagement shoot? Regardless of where you are, feel free to reach out, I have a passion for travel and would love to spend a day creating an engagement session that is uniquely yours.