Engagement shoot during sunset time in the Peak District: 2 things to remember before climbing a mountain, even if it's only a 10-minute walk.
Thinking about having your engagement/couple shoot done during that dreamy golden hour at a breathtaking location? Come and check out my new post about this recent amazing shoot I did with S&R at the Peak District National Park ❤️
Some of you already know that these intimate shoots done at beautiful locations are my definite favorites because of the great moments you share together within stunning backdrops. :)
Before you decide, "Yes, I want a shoot like that," there are two main things you need to remember and take into account.
Weather cannot be planned
As we shoot outdoors, you can never know what weather conditions you will experience on the day. Personally, I have only once in my life decided to stop shooting during a shoot due to heavy rain and wind. Besides that, bad weather almost always spares me. Rain is always the worst but it can be harsh as well and we still be shooting. There are days when it can be quite cold or windy. When that happens, you need to be prepared. Sometimes you may dream about an amazing sunset, but instead, there are clouds everywhere, fog, or snow. Often you may get very different results than you planned, so it's good not to have high expectations, as otherwise it can lead to disappointment. Still, regardless of the weather, each shoot is different and always beautiful in its unique way. Your outfits do the job, the season of the year, the weather, the view, the connection between you two. There are always more elements to rely on than just a dreamy sunset.
Good preparation is a must
Outdoor conditions can often be harsh, especially on top of the mountain, even if it's only a 10-minute walk from the car park. From what I see, you often tend to think that if it's a warm day and you were spending it somewhere in the city, it will be warm on top of the mountain as well, and then you tend to take fewer clothes than I advise.
It's always much cooler in the mountains. We often shoot during sunset times, so the temperature tends to drop very quickly within minutes. It's also windier at the top. So you may have 21 degrees in the city, then 18 at the bottom at the car park, and 14 at the top of the hill, especially when it's windy. Wind is always a killer! So if you're thinking of wearing a fancy dress with your arms and legs uncovered, you also need to remember to take some warm clothes: warm leggings, a warm jacket, a pair of gloves, a scarf, a hat, and a hot tea! You can walk up the hill dressed in your jacket and hiking boots and then quickly change when we shoot. I've seen people shivering and being cold. It's really not a pleasant look. The shoot can take from 1 hour to 2 hours, so there's a lot of time to get cold. Never take the good weather in the city for granted! As when you climb that mountain you may regret you haven't taken more clothes with you.
I tend to say that my couples are fully committed to posing and resilient to the weather. You would never say someone was very cold when looking at the photos later on. Couples are always doing a great job! <3
Now, if you think you can definitely prepare well for a shoot like that, contact me, and we can plan it. I know great spots in the Peak District and know exactly what places to suggest!
Take a look now at my personal favorites from this shoot!
