Lara and I both run So You’re EnGAYged, each playing a different role to keep the site going. But sometimes it’s nice to just take some time off and have fun- even if you are business partners! Lara and Brad are incredible friends and we decided it was high time to actually have some fun together. So we headed to the Mystic Aquarium. We got to see tons of sealife, penguins, and even pet some sharks. I know more about Sea Lions (Do not say seals!! They are not seals! There is a whole 3 minute video telling you allll about the differences.) now than I ever thought possible.

Bundled up in their colorful and fun coats, Jessica and Katie were ready to do their second half of their engagement shoot. We already did a mini shoot inside the National Portrait Gallery. Now, it was time to enjoy some blossoms.

The evening before the shoot, Katie asked Jessica what she was doing. “Just planning my layers.” So Katie assumed she was just making sure her outfit looked good with the coat on.

As we walk through the cherry trees, it was really quiet. Not many people around. We could just enjoy the trees so many people come from so far to DC to enjoy. We played with the trees and finally made the decision: it was time to do one shot of them with their custom t-shirts for the wedding. Katie and I starred in astonishment as Jessica peeled off layer after layer of shirts. That girl was dressed for the cold and somehow looked like she was just wearing a cute spring coat with a shirt underneath. Not 4. It was a dash to get the t-shirt shirt shot quickly without being frozen in place. But we got it!

The best advice I can give to someone who is camera shy or just nervous about the shoot in general is to do an activity. Keeping busy and having fun not only keep you from dwelling too much on the camera, they also always make for great shots. And there is no shortage of fun things to do!

For shoots I have: gone on a hay ride, fed goats, had tea in the middle of a NYC sidewalk, had a picnic by a river, gone to a tree farm and found a christmas tree/chopped it down, I have made s’mores by a campfire, set up a tent, and lots more!

What about a horse back riding lessons, skating, hiking, baking a cake, going to a carnival, setting off to the beach for a swim, going on a lake canoe, having a coffee date, hanging out at your favorite bookstore, exploring a new museum…yes, apparently I have some ideas!

But doing an activity with your partner, whether or not your camera shy, is a great way to get engagement photos that really capture your personality as a couple and provide a great backdrop for lots of laughing/smiles/enjoyment.

And props don’t hurt either! Doing an activity often times goes hand and hand with props. Think a bit about what you want to bring because it does make a big impact on the photos. Heading on over to a flea market is a sure fire way to get some great ideas and pick up a few props. Or head over to World Market, Home Goods, or Marshalls. You can find amazing props for $10 or less.

The warm blankets provided by the couple because of the cooler day were quickly snatched up and a few minutes of alone time were in order. As the guests made their way over to the Darlington House for the reception, we played around at the Woodrow Wilson house for a few more couple shots and then headed through Embassy Row to meet up with the rest of the guests.

I instantly knew why Shaneequa had worked so hard on the music mix- she was ready to dance! And she was not alone. The electric slide? A huge hit. Everyone was on the dance floor and a few friends helped teach the young girls the dance. I knew in 10 years those girls would be doing the same. Because as all their friends and family came together, it was evident what a tight knit family and group this was. Jacquetta made a bee line as the first cupcakes were served to get her dad and grandma the flavor of their choice. And Shaneequa was laughing almost the entire reception with everyone, bursting on the dance floor with amazing dance moves, and encouraging everyone to just enjoy themselves. And that’s what makes weddings so amazing. The community behind the couple: all coming together to embrace and cheer them on for the whole day.