How to get Great Engagement Photos, Shelburne Farms, Vermont

I’d like to take you along on a complementary engagement shoot I did with this lovely couple at Shelburne Farms! Taking a wide variety of stunning photos here is an easy task! The landscape offers a variety of scenes right at your fingertips. Whether you’re seeking windswept and dramatic scenery, formal and prim gardens, or space for fun and candid shots. Shelburne Farms in Vermont is an ideal location for capturing breathtaking engagement photos.

Our day began by using some beautiful rustic fences which lead your eye through the images. When we first start a shoot, I love guiding my couples to lean on or interact with something in their environment. It’s one of several small things we can do to ease any nerves or awkwardness that they might feel in front of the camera. Leaning on a wall or fence can also provide a more natural and relaxed stance.

Another strategy involves taking photos from more of a distance, allowing people to gradually feel more comfortable. I never want to people to feel that I’m invading their space. I love seeing people warm up to the idea of close up shots as things progress!

After taking photos next to this fence, we drove over to the beautifully maintained gardens on the estate. I absolutely love the lookout that peers over Lake Champlain. There’s also a nice little fountain that bordered with lavender and other flowers. We also found a little path lined with evergreen bushes. I love when the subjects of a photo are surrounded by greenery!

On our drive through the estate, I spotted a field with long grass and I had to ask if they were comfortable taking photos there. With a reminder to check for ticks after the shoot, something we have to deal with in New England all the time, we found a spot and I gave a few prompts to create some fun moments. While having poses is important, prompts which involve activities or movements are so helpful. I make an effort to remember this because it stops photos from feeling too staged or static.

Before finishing the engagement shoot, we decided to take some photos on a little beach area overlooking Lake Champlain. By this point, these two were already so comfortable taking couple photos that they didn’t need much direction. It’s awesome how couples get in the rhythm of taking pictures together and feel more confident in front of the camera.

After capturing these final moments, we wrapped up the session and said our goodbyes. I couldn’t wait to go through the photos and send them over in their gallery.

I believe it’s so important for couples to do an engagement shoot before their wedding day. It’s especially helpful when the couple and their wedding photographer get to work together. I include a complimentary engagement shoot in all my wedding packages. It allows me to meet couples in person and get to know them before the big day. This personal connection significantly enhances the wedding day experience, making bridal couple photos even more enjoyable and less stressful. They’ve already gotten a chance to practice with a fun and enthusiastic guide, ready to give lots of helpful tips and tricks along the way! If you’d like to reach out and learn more about wedding coverage or engagements, feel free to click here to contact me!

Hopefully by following along, you’ve learned a few tips and tricks for your engagement shoot, all at a stunning Vermont location. I can’t recommend Shelburne Farms enough as a place to go if you want lots of different types of scenery. Before you go, remember to apply for permission to use this stunning property on their website. You can click on the link to do so here!