If you're planning an engagement session in the Hunter Valley, you've already made a pretty good decision.
Rolling vineyards, mountain views, country roads, big skies and some seriously gorgeous light make the Hunter Valley one of my favourite places for couples photos.
But before you panic about what to wear, where to go and what the hell you're actually supposed to do once a photographer points a camera at you...
I've got you.
You don't have to dress like you're attending a vineyard wedding.
If you feel amazing in black, wear black.
If you love colour, wear colour.
If your style is more casual, lean into it.
Your photos should look like the two of you — not like you've wandered out of a Hunter Valley tourism brochure.
What colours work well?
The Hunter Valley is full of earthy greens, warm browns, golden grasses and soft natural tones.
Neutral and earthy colours can complement that beautifully.
Think cream, beige, tan, rust, olive, denim, brown, black and muted colours.
But don't be afraid of colour.
A beautiful dress or bold shirt can create a gorgeous contrast against the landscape.
The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and confident in what you're wearing.
Where should we take the photos?
This is where Hunter Valley sessions get really fun.
We can use the landscape around us rather than staying in one spot.
Vineyards.
Open fields.
Country roads.
Beautiful trees.
Mountain views.
And anywhere else that gives us good light and room to move.
I'll help you work out what location will suit the two of you and the type of photos you're after.
When should we shoot?
Light is everything.
For outdoor engagement photos, I generally love working later in the afternoon so we can make the most of that beautiful, softer light as the sun starts to drop.
This is when the Hunter Valley can really show off.
Golden light across the vineyards.
Long shadows.
Warm tones.
Backlighting.
The exact time will depend on the date and location, so I'll help you work out the best time rather than leaving you to Google "sunset Hunter Valley August 15" at midnight.
Can we make it feel less like a photoshoot?
Absolutely.
In fact, that's the goal.
I don't want your engagement photos to feel like an hour of forced smiling.
I want them to feel like you two hanging out somewhere beautiful.
We can walk through the vineyard.
Sit together.
Explore the property.
Have a drink.
Listen to each other talk.
Steal kisses.
I'll photograph all the little moments happening in between.
Those are often my favourite photographs.
Your Hunter Valley engagement photos should feel like you
The Hunter Valley is already doing a lot of the work.
You don't need to overthink it.
Wear something you feel bloody good in.
Choose a location that feels like you.
Bring your favourite person.
And let the rest happen naturally.
I'll take care of the awkward bits.
I'll guide you through the photos.
I'll find the good light.
And I'll make sure you don't spend the whole session wondering what you're supposed to do.
Ready to book your session in the Hunter Valley? Get in touch here