Planning a spring engagement session in Madison, WI? Here’s everything you need to know (from a wedding photographer’s POV) about making the most out of your spring engagement photos!
Timing
Spring equinox officially starts on March 20th, and lasts until June 21st. Here in Wisconsin, March is usually too early for “spring” photos since we often have snow on the ground. We recommend to all of our couples who want spring engagement photos to hold off until late April or early May when the grass turns green again and we start to see blooms. There’s usually a short window of magnolia, cherry and apple blossoms, followed by a longer period of greenery and native flowers. If you’re from Wisconsin, you may already know that longer freezes and cool temperatures can sometimes delay blooms by a few weeks!
Location
One of our favorite spots for spring photos here in Madison is the UW Arboretum. The Longenecker Horticultural Gardens is a 35 acre oasis that is beautifully maintained. It’s a popular location year round, but especially during bloom season. For couples wanting their spring engagement photos taken here, we need to plan early so that the proper permit can be attained in time!
Another favorite spring engagement location of ours in Olbrich Botanical Gardens. They do close earlier, so couples who opt for a session here will miss out on golden hour. The beauty of the gardens more than makes up for that though!
Wardrobe
After a long dreary winter, I love to see some spring color. Try opting for bright and warm or classic neutral colors that compliment your skin tones and help your eyes to pop! Cream, pink, yellow, light blues, and sage greens all photograph beautifully in the spring. I recommend flowing dresses that allow movement, linen button ups with natural texture, and soft floral patterns for your more dressy look. It doesn’t get more clean and classic than a white top tucked into blue jeans, or a fun yellow floral shirt for your casual outfit! If you are struggling to piece together a cohesive look, we are always happy to help!
Rain and Mud
You know that saying, “April showers bring May flowers?” It’s true, but it’s not limited to April. We see a lot of unpredictable weather this time of year, and spring is known to be pretty wet. Don’t fear though, we’ve got you. We schedule sessions on Tuesday and Thursday evenings so if we need to reschedule, there’s openings! However sometimes couples may be traveling from out of town, or the rain hits us out of nowhere! This is why we carry a Costco size surplus of umbrellas with us at all times. Okay, maybe not THAT many, but certainly enough to keep us all covered. We even have rain jackets for our cameras! So if you two are up for a Notebook inspired rainy session, so are we! Just be sure to bring a change of clothes (and shoes) so you can be comfortable afterwards).
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