<p style="text-align: center;">It's a beautiful time in your life - you're engaged! As your journey towards your special day begins, one of the exciting milestones is your engagement session. This pre-wedding photo shoot allows you to connect with your photographer and create beautiful images that celebrate your love story. Through this guide, I'll share tips on how to prepare for a successful session that leaves you feeling confident and excited.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">Firstly, let's talk about outfit choices. What you wear plays a crucial role in how your photos will look. Choose outfits that reflect both your individual styles and your relationship. Don&rsquo;t shy away from color! Pastels and neutral shades tend to photograph well, but don't feel limited by them. If you love bold, vibrant colors, go for it. Avoid logos or overly busy patterns that can distract from your faces. Consider the location and season too. If you're shooting in a park in the fall, warm tones could complement the scenery. Above all, ensure you feel comfortable and confident in what you wear.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">Next, selecting the location for your engagement session is key. Choose a place that holds special meaning to you. Whether it's the coffee shop where you had your first date, the park where the proposal happened, or simply a beautiful location you both love, it should be a place that tells part of your story. Your photographer will be able to help you consider the practicalities of each location, such as lighting and crowds.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">When it comes to posing, remember that the best photos often happen when you're simply being yourselves. Your photographer is there to guide you, but don&rsquo;t worry if you're not a natural model. The goal is not to create perfect poses but to capture your genuine connection and love for each other. Feel free to be playful, tender, or even a little silly!</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">Lastly, remember to relax and have fun. Your engagement session should be a joyful experience, not a stressful one. It's an opportunity to spend time together, to get to know your photographer, and to create lasting memories. It's not just about the final photos, but the experience and the story behind them.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">With these tips, you're now ready to have a successful and enjoyable engagement session. I can't wait to capture your love story and create beautiful images that you'll cherish forever. Here's to celebrating your unique journey of love!</p>

Preparing for Your Engagement Session: A Comprehensive Guide

<p style="text-align: center;">My journey as a professional photographer has taught me that creating lasting memories goes beyond clicking the shutter. It's about capturing love, joy, and the subtle nuances that define our lives. And when it comes to weddings, these moments are priceless. This is why hiring a professional photographer for your wedding is so essential.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">A professional brings expertise and a keen eye for detail, something that's indispensable in wedding photography. We understand the importance of capturing the magic in every moment - the look of love shared between the couple, the laughter of the guests, the beauty of the venue. More than that, we know how to frame these moments in a way that tells your unique love story.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">One of the key aspects that sets a professional apart from an amateur is our ability to put people at ease. Weddings can be stressful, and it's common for people to feel uncomfortable in front of the camera. As professionals, we're experienced in handling these situations. We create a relaxed environment that allows everyone to be themselves, which results in natural, authentic photos.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">Another advantage of hiring a professional is the quality of the photos themselves. With high-end equipment and extensive knowledge of lighting and editing techniques, a professional photographer can deliver stunning images that stand the test of time. These aren't just photos; they're keepsakes that you'll treasure for a lifetime.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">In conclusion, a professional photographer brings more than just technical skills to your wedding. We bring a level of care, dedication, and passion that can't be replicated. We understand the gravity of our role - we're not just taking pictures; we're capturing memories that will be cherished for generations to come. It's an honor and a responsibility that I, and my fellow professionals, take very seriously.</p>

The Value of Professional Wedding Photography: More Than Just Pictures

<p style="text-align: center;">Let's dive into the charm and uniqueness of the top five wedding venues in Rocky Hill, CT. These are not your standard cookie-cutter places, but spaces that are as unique as your love story. Each venue has its own special character, perfect for different types of weddings and seasons.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">1. <span style="color: rgb(28, 28, 225);"><a href="https://ctparks.com/parks/dinosaur-state-park" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dinosaur State Park</a></span>: With its lush outdoors and unique dinosaur footprint collection, this venue is perfect for couples looking for a whimsical and outdoor wedding. It's at its best in late spring and early fall when the foliage adds natural decor to your celebration. The park is expansive, making it best for large weddings, but its intimate corners can also cater to elopements.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">2. <span style="color: rgb(28, 28, 225);"><a href="https://wdsmuseum.org/rent-the-webb-barn/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Webb Barn</a></span>: Nestled in the heart of Rocky Hill, The Webb Barn is a rustic gem. With its 200-year-old barn and picturesque gardens, it's perfect for a country-chic wedding. The venue shines in the summer and fall, offering a blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. It's best for medium to large weddings, but its cozy barn could also host a smaller, more intimate gathering.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">3. <span style="color: rgb(28, 28, 225);"><a href="https://www.quarryridge.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Quarry Ridge Golf Course</a></span>: If a classy, elegant wedding is your dream, Quarry Ridge Golf Course is the place for you. With sweeping views of the hills and a stunning banquet hall, it's a venue that pairs nature and luxury. It's a year-round venue, but it's particularly stunning in the fall. It's perfect for large weddings.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">4. <span style="color: rgb(28, 28, 225);"><a href="https://portal.ct.gov/dot/cwp/view.asp?a=1390&amp;Q=501574" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-invalid="true">Ferry Park</a></span>: For the couple seeking a relaxed, picnic-style wedding, Ferry Park, with its charming gazebo and river views, is an ideal choice. Summer is the best time to take advantage of the park's sunny, cheerful atmosphere. The venue's laid-back vibe works well for both small, intimate weddings and larger gatherings.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">5. <span style="color: rgb(28, 28, 225);"><a href="https://www.rockyhillct.gov/Facilities/Facility/Details/Elm-Ridge-Park-9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Elm Ridge Park</a></span>: Elm Ridge Park offers a blend of natural beauty and convenience with its scenic views and ample facilities. The park is beautiful throughout the year, but its vibrant fall colors make autumn weddings especially photogenic. The park's size and variety of locations make it suitable for weddings of all sizes, from large celebrations to quiet elopements.</p>

Top 5 Unique Wedding Venues in Rocky Hill, CT

<p style="text-align: center;">There are plenty of photos you have probably considered taking on your wedding day. You must not overlook capturing those closest to you on your wedding day with these&nbsp;<strong><em>Bridesmaids Photo ideas.</em></strong>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Of course, you will take pictures with your family and partner at various stages of the day, but what about the bridesmaids that are helping you and have helped throughout the entire wedding planning process?&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">While you know you&rsquo;ll have some time to take group shots of the entire bridal party; you&rsquo;ll want to make sure you have these photos with your bridesmaids as you get ready on your big day.</p>

<h2 style="text-align: center;">Bridesmaids Photo Ideas</h2>
<p style="text-align: center;">Don&rsquo;t miss out on taking multiple picture-perfect wedding photos with your bridal party. These&nbsp;<strong>bridesmaid photo ideas</strong>&nbsp;are sure to bring the right energy and fun while capturing an essential part of your wedding day.</p>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">1. Showcase The Back of the Wedding Dress and Bridesmaids Dresses</h3>
<p style="text-align: center;">The back of a wedding dress is adorned with beautiful details you&rsquo;ll want to capture. You can pose with all of the bridesmaids to show off their dresses as well or have some great close-ups of the bridesmaids helping button, zipper, or lace up the back of your dress.</p>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">2. First Look With The Bridesmaids</h3>
<p style="text-align: center;">Many couples look forward to the first look photo. It is an intimate moment for the bride and groom. What about a bridal party first look?The bride&rsquo;s first reveal to her bridal party can result in some emotional and memorable photo opportunities.</p>

<h3 style="text-align: center;">3. Having Fun</h3>
<p style="text-align: center;">As you are getting ready, everyone&rsquo;s nerves are a little on edge because everyone wants to look their best. There will be moments when you need to let loose to relax a little, and having a little dance party, jumping on the bed or just being silly are moments that can make for great photo opportunities.</p>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">4. Pre-Wedding Wear: Matching Robes or Shirts</h3>
<p style="text-align: center;">Most brides will have getting-ready attire for their bridesmaids, and you&rsquo;ll want to capture everyone in their cute and thoughtful pre-wedding wear.</p>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">5. Bridesmaids and Bouquets</h3>
<p style="text-align: center;">Bouquets won&rsquo;t last a lifetime, but the pictures you have of them will. The bridesmaids and bride bouquet shot is one that you will want to have. There are so many ways you can showcase the bouquets as well as the bridesmaid&rsquo;s dresses. From lining everyone up and holding their bouquets out to the camera or hiding their faces to forming a circle around the bride, this is another shot that you can get creative with.</p>

<h3 style="text-align: center;">6. The Shoe Shot</h3>
<p style="text-align: center;">You can&rsquo;t forget about the shoes and what about those pedicures?! You&rsquo;ll want to get a group shot that showcases everyone&rsquo;s beautiful shoes.</p>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">7. Celebrating Bridal Toast and Shot</h3>
<p style="text-align: center;">You&rsquo;re getting married! There is bound to be a bottle or two of champagne being opened in the bride&rsquo;s honor. Take a minute to pause as you toast away your single life with your bridesmaids for a picture-perfect shot.</p>

Top 7 Photo Ideas With Your Bridesmaids

<p style="text-align: center;">Trust is the super-secret ingredient to any relationship and this is true for the relationship you have with your&nbsp;<strong><em>engagement photographer.</em></strong>&nbsp;There&rsquo;s a reason you chose them to capture the most important day of your life. While you may have a vision of how you want some of your images to turn out, for the most part, you are going to have to put a lot of trust in your photographer.</p>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">Trusting Your Engagement Photographer Will Result in Better Engagement Photos</h3>
<p style="text-align: center;">Trusting your engagement photographer a little more in these main areas will not only result in better images for you to remember your big day but will also relieve you of some stress as well.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</h2>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">1. The Most Flattering Poses For You</h3>
<p style="text-align: center;">Trust your engagement photographer to know what pose is the most flattering for you. They can see how the light is shaping you and what specific details are in the background. While some photographers will take into consideration your picture ideas, you shouldn&rsquo;t be offended if they explain why that may not look as good.</p>

<h3 style="text-align: center;">2. Choosing the Location of the Shot</h3>
<p style="text-align: center;">Your engagement photographer will have taken the time to familiarize themselves with your location or areas around your session spot to find the best places to photograph. They&rsquo;ll know where gets the best light and where the best scenery will create timeless photographs.</p>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">3. Handling Printing Your Photos</h3>
<p style="text-align: center;">Your photographer knows where to get prints made and probably has a long-term relationship with a reputable printing company. The worst thing you can do is have a stunning image, order a large print and find the colors are off, the image is blurred or it simply looks dull. Knowing where to get your prints made, what size they should be done in and which ones will look best in your albums, wall art or thank you cards is part of the package you get when you hired a professional photographer. Trust them and listen to what they think will look best for what you want. They spend large amounts of time practicing and studying the art of print.</p>

<h3 style="text-align: center;">4. Time of Day to Shoot</h3>
<p style="text-align: center;">Lighting is key (it&rsquo;s undoubtedly the most important) to creating beautiful images, and using the natural light of the sun will produce the best lighting setting. That of course doesn&rsquo;t mean any time of the day will give you the same results. Your photographer will know what time of day will be best to take those gorgeous outdoor shots that won&rsquo;t leave harsh shadows on your face or when to sneak outside to take some night inspired shots. Understanding light from the sun, and especially how to create it with a flash is something you&rsquo;ll want to make sure your photographer is comfortable with.</p>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">5. Editing Your Photos</h3>
<p style="text-align: center;">Trust your photographer&rsquo;s creative eye during the editing process. They will know which images will look best in black and white, color, cropped, and which ones to add special effects too if any. Part of the editing process is a part of their style and this is one of the reasons you hired them. Trust them to use their skills to make each image stunning.</p>

5 Things You Should Trust Your Engagement Photographer With

<p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Rebecca and Anthony had their Wedding at the New Haven Lawn Club in New Haven, CT. If you&rsquo;re looking for a vibe that resonates with the photos below, this might be the wedding venue for you!</p>

New Haven Lawn Club | Rebecca Anthony

I can’t say enough wonderful things about Chris! I was always a big believer that everything happens for a reason and working with him proved that to be true. I plan weddings for a living and when it was time to plan my own I originally booked another photographer. Well, thanks to covid we ended up postponing twice and ended up with a date that our first photographer wasn’t available for. Enter Chris! I had worked a wedding with him a couple years prior and was so impressed with his professionalism, easy going personality, and of course the beautiful photos that he took- that I knew he was the right photographer for us. If you are looking for a photographer who takes stunning photos and is an absolute pleasure to work with- look no further!

Malana Dougherty-Jarzabek

My husband and I both full heartedly agree that choosing Photography Stiles was our best wedding planning decision. From the very first phone call with Chris, he was so kind and so focused. In person, his laid back energy immediately calmed us during our engagement session. (Which was SO much fun.) On our wedding day he was beyond amazing. Chris, and his second shooter Jen beautifully captured every moment of that long, and special day, while also helping to coordinate the entire time! So grateful for the extra care and effort they both put in to help ensure everything went smooth.We SO highly recommend for anyone looking for a fun, personable, hardworking, beyond amazing photographer.

Celia Barber

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<p>The Classic Collection delivers everything you need for timeless, professional wedding photography. With Chris Stiles as your dedicated lead photographer, you’ll receive eight hours of continuous coverage that beautifully captures your day’s most meaningful moments.</p><p><br></p><p>Every image is expertly retouched and delivered as high-resolution digital files with unrestricted printing rights, hosted in a 1-year online gallery with secure 1-year backup. You’ll also receive a video slideshow featuring the highlights of your day, a perfect way to relive and share your memories.</p>

The Classic Collection

<p>The Heirloom Collection offers timeless coverage for couples who value storytelling and connection. With Chris Stiles as your lead photographer and a second photographer capturing additional perspectives, your wedding day is documented with care and artistry.</p><p><br></p><p>Enjoy eight hours of continuous coverage, and choose between an engagement session to capture your story before the big day, or a Wedding Day Content Creator for candid behind-the-scenes moments as they unfold.</p><p><br></p><p>Your final gallery includes every image expertly retouched, high-resolution digital files with unrestricted printing rights, a 1-year online gallery and backup, and a video slideshow showcasing your favorite highlights in a beautiful, shareable format.</p><p><strong>Customize this package with:</strong></p><ul><li>An 8" Wedding Album (includes the first 20 pages)</li><li>Party Photo Booth</li><li>2-4 Minute Highlight Film</li><li>A personalized engagement session</li><li>An additional hour of wedding day coverage</li><li>An extra year of online gallery access</li><li>An extra year of image backup</li></ul>

The Heirloom Collection

<p><strong>The Masterpiece Collection</strong></p><p>The ultimate experience for couples who want it all. The Masterpiece Collection captures every moment, emotion, and detail of your wedding day, beautifully preserved in both photo and video.</p><p><br></p><p>You’ll have Chris Stiles as your lead photographer, accompanied by a second photographer for complete coverage from every angle. Enjoy nine hours of continuous coverage, a dedicated Wedding Day Content Creator for instant behind-the-scenes memories, and a 2–4 minute cinematic highlight film that brings your day to life.</p><p><br></p><p>Your story begins with a personalized engagement session and continues through your celebration with a lively party photo booth for guests. After the day, you’ll receive a handcrafted 10" memory album (first 20 pages included), a 3-year online gallery and backup, and every image fully retouched in high resolution with unrestricted printing rights.</p>

The Masterpiece Collection

The Focal Essentials All You Need Plan lets you create a beautiful business website with the power of AI. Create Packages, Pricing pages and Blogs. Make booking easy for your client with Focal's Booking System. 5TB of Gallery Storage.

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Memories with soul. Photos that move you. Films that stay with you.

You will find the about page from my existing website between the “” below. You can use this section primarily for tone of voice and style as opposed to content. Make sure that all references to the self are in the first person singular, as I am the only photographer on my team. Please also ensure that there are no references to “our team” or “our photographer”. Instead, all writing should be coming directly from me.


"My first obsession was weather. (Okay, and current. Catch me geeking out over winter snowstorms.) Yet as my career shifted away from meteorology, I realized the 9-5 wasn’t for me. I’d always been drawn to photography, but mostly of the sky. So how’d I get here? Everything changed when my friend printed and framed a portrait I took of his family. So often, you snap a pic and move on. Yet he had taken that extra step to make sure he remembered, and it moved me deeply.
For my friend, his girls had already grown a bit. Yet that fleeting stage of childhood lived on thanks to something I did.  

That was the moment I realized I’d found my new obsession, something that could fill me with as much passion as weather. I’ve photographed couples in love ever since."