A Silver Lake Engagement Session in Los Angeles

An engagement in Silver Lake

A couple who got engaged in early May had their engagement session in Silver Lake, a hillside neighbourhood in Los Angeles known for its cafes, small shops and creative community. The New York-based photographer published a handful of frames on her blog, and the picture that stood out was a bright red hair bow that gave the images a playful, retro feel.

Why shoot away from home

The session shows that engagement photos need not be taken in a couple’s home city. Travelling to a different place, or choosing the neighbourhood where one partner lives, can give the pictures a distinct character. Many photographers at the time were willing to travel for sessions, and this entry is a small example of that approach.

What makes a session feel personal

• Colour and props. A single accessory, such as a ribbon or a scarf, can become the signature of a gallery.
• Natural light. Late afternoon sun in tall grass or on a quiet street gives skin a warm glow without elaborate equipment.
• Unforced moments. Many photographers prefer to let couples walk, talk and laugh, then capture the interaction instead of directing every pose.
• Local flavour. Cafes, murals and parks tie the photographs to a place and make them easier to remember years later.

Planning your own

Think about what the two of you enjoy and let that guide the location. Wear colours that complement each other, pick comfortable shoes, and allow enough time for breaks. Bring a favourite small item that expresses your personality, as the red bow did here.

More from the archive

For other sessions, see the Chinatown engagement, the Vermont wedding or the August 2011 archive.