When it comes to where to take engagement photos, there is literally no limit to the places that you can choose from, so today, we are going to talk about library engagement photos and why they are so great.
As an engagement photographer, I have worked with so many couples and have been to countless different places to document their love. When it comes to locations for engagement photos, the library is definitely up there on my list of favorites.
So, if you are looking for a unique place to take pictures that look amazing, let’s dive into library engagement photos and some tips to help you plan the perfect session!
Why Take Library Engagement Photos
First things first, let’s talk about why you should take engagement photos at the library over another location. There are a few different reasons why this may be the perfect spot for you and your partner.
First, if you are both big readers or if books are something that you have bonded over, this is the perfect way to incorporate that into your photos in a unique way. You can choose a library that you go to often or one that you have always wanted to visit.
Second, most libraries you find will have beautiful architecture in or around the library. This means that you not only get meaningful photos, but you’ll also have a backdrop that is stunning and shows off your love in an incredible way.
Speaking of architecture, you’ll also find that a lot of libraries have tons of windows and let in so much natural light. If there is one thing you should know about photography, it is that natural light makes a huge difference in how your photos turn out. Fun fact, the word photography comes with the Latin phrase “drawing with light”, so good light is integral to making great photos.
Finally, a library is a really unique place to take engagement photos. The quiet, intimate vibes will make sure your photos are unlike anyone else’s.
Tips for Engagement Photos at the Library
So, now that we know why library engagement photos are so amazing, let’s go over a few tips for your session to make sure that it goes off without a hitch.
Make sure you check for any permits needed
First, just like any other location, be sure to check if there are any permits that you need to take photos at the library. In smaller, more local libraries, you may find that you don’t need anything. However, in some larger and more popular ones, they may have a small fee or donation that you need to pay to do your session there.
Normally, this isn’t a big deal at all and it is a pretty simple process to get permits, but it is important that you do this early on just in case there is any sort of waiting period or additional information that the library may need.
At the end of the day, these are public places for the community and you want to make sure that you are respecting any rules or restrictions that they have when it comes to photography.
Try to plan the session for a quieter time
You also want to think about planning your session for a less busy time at the library. There are a few different things that go into this depending on the time of year that you are looking to have your session. When you call ahead about permitting, make sure to ask about any upcoming events or busy times.
For example, if your library has kids programs that it puts on in the summer and your session is in the summer, you may want to try and plan around that so you’re not having to restrict where you can go or what you can do during the session.
If you are planning your session during the school year, it may be a good idea to try and do it in the morning or early afternoon. This is most likely when the library is going to be the least busy and you’ll have more places around the library that you can go without disturbing anyone.
Scout out smaller nooks and less popular areas
Just like with any other location you are looking at for engagement photos, you want to take some time to scout out the library beforehand. This will give you a chance to find any smaller nooks, less populated areas, or any unique places that you want to go to during your session.
When it comes to doing this, I would highly suggest scoping out the library around the same time that you are planning to have your session during the day. This way you can see if that area is normally busier or if you may have it all to yourself during your session.
Once you have your spots, be sure to make a list of them and even list out where they are in the library (especially if it is a larger library) so that you don’t waste time during your session trying to retrace your steps or find that one spot that you loved.
You can also look for any areas that are really unique in the library, whether that is because of what is actually in the area, or if it is something like the way the light shines through the window and the shapes it creates.
All of these things can be shared with your photographer to build a plan and a schedule for your session so that everyone is on the same page and they know the must have photos that you and your partner want.
Don’t forget about the outside of the library
Don’t forget about the area surrounding the library. A lot of libraries will have small gardens or outdoor areas surrounding the building that you can use for your session. Obviously this is going to vary from library to library, but you want to make sure you take a look and see if there is anywhere you want to add to your shot list.
You can also think about the building itself. Oftentimes libraries will have some really unique architecture, especially more historic ones. So, as you are scoping everything out, take a walk outside and see if there are any unique places that highlight the building itself.
You never know! You may even find some cool outdoor staircases or paths that you have never seen before!
Be sure to respect the library and everyone else in it
Finally, be sure to respect the library and everyone else in it. While this is a special day for you and your partner to celebrate your love, you are also in a public place. Especially when it comes to a library, you want to make sure that you aren’t making too much noise or interfering with anyone else using the facilities.
Don’t forget to also put back anything you may use or move in your photos. If you do want to use books as props for you photos, be sure to put them back on the shelf or a cart to be reshelved.
As amazing and unique as this location is for your engagement photos, it is also a space that a lot of people in your community are going to use on a daily basis so we want to make sure that we are respecting that and doing our part to keep it clean and looking amazing for everyone to enjoy!
Final Thoughts on a Library Engagement Session
So, if you are looking for a place that is unique or if you and your partner are big book worms, the library may be the perfect place for your engagement session. Not only will you get a place that stands out from other engagement photos, but you’ll also be able to explore one of the great places open to you as a community member!
So, if you are ready for your own library engagement photos or have another spot in mind for your session, I’d love to chat. You can click here to learn more about my photography services or you can head over here to get in touch and start planning your own session!
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