the      Blog

Welcome to my little space on the internet where I share my photographs & client experiences with you! 

Here you will find highlights of weddings, elopements, engagements, and families. This is a great way to get a feel for my style of posing, lighting, locations, and some inspiration for your own time in front of my camera. I also have a little section of helpful tips & advice about sessions, weddings, and travels! 

Take a look around & get inspired...

xo, Em

Benefits of Having Professional Hair/Makeup Done For Photos

Couples • March 12, 2024 

Are you looking for a Maine engagement photographer that is going to help you look AND feel your best? You’re in the right place.

I’m a girls girl. I always want my people looking and feeling their best. Especially my people in the front of my camera. But, as a Maine engagement photographer who has been on both sides of the camera, I’ve learned a few things that help with this. The biggest thing is, don’t try to be something you’re not. That’s not what photos are about. Another thing I’ve learned is that if you look good, you feel good – and that radiates in your photos. Having your natural features enhanced a bit with professional hair or makeup, can help with that!

Now, if you never wear makeup, don’t go full glam and look like a new person – that’s not what I’m suggesting. But if you wear a bit sometimes, having a professional help with that can really enhance some of your natural beauty and features to shine through in the photos.

Let’s Dive In –

Your engagement photos capture the essence of your love story, serving as cherished mementos for years to come. While choosing the perfect location and outfits are crucial, don’t underestimate the power of professional hair and makeup for your Maine engagement session. Here’s why investing in professional styling can elevate your photoshoot and leave you with stunning images that stand the test of time.

  1. Flawless Appearance: Professional hair and makeup artists have the skills and expertise to enhance your natural beauty and ensure you look flawless in every shot. Whether it’s achieving a soft, romantic look or a more glamorous style, they can tailor the hair and makeup to complement your features and suit the overall theme of your photo session.
  2. Confidence Boost: Looking and feeling your best is key to exuding confidence during your engagement session. Professional stylists understand how to accentuate your best features while minimizing any imperfections, helping you feel more self-assured in front of the camera. When you feel confident, it shines through in your photographs, resulting in authentic and captivating images.
  3. Long-lasting Results: Maine’s unpredictable weather, particularly during outdoor photoshoots, can pose challenges for maintaining hair and makeup. Professional artists use high-quality products and techniques that are designed to withstand various conditions, ensuring your look remains fresh and picture-perfect throughout the session. With their expertise, you can relax and enjoy the moment without worrying about touch-ups.
  4. Enhances Photography: Professional hair and makeup not only enhance your appearance but also contribute to the overall quality of your engagement photos. Well-executed styling can accentuate your facial features, create dimension, and add visual interest to the photographs. Additionally, makeup artists understand how lighting and camera settings affect the final outcome, allowing them to create looks that photograph beautifully in any setting.
  5. Saves Time and Stress: Planning an engagement session involves numerous details, and coordinating hair and makeup adds another layer of complexity. By hiring professional stylists, you can streamline the process and alleviate stress on the day of the photoshoot. They come prepared with the necessary tools and expertise to execute your desired look efficiently, allowing you to focus on enjoying the experience with your partner.

Conclusion: Your engagement photos are a reflection of your love story and serve as cherished keepsakes for years to come. By investing in professional hair and makeup for your photo session of any kind, you can enhance your appearance, boost your confidence, and ensure stunning results that capture the magic of this special moment in your lives. Trusting experienced stylists to perfect your look will not only elevate your photoshoot but also create timeless memories that you’ll treasure forever.

Pro Tip –

Coordinating your wedding hair/makeup trial for the day of your engagement session is the perfect opportunity to put this to the test!

In this session you can see that it was a relaxed coastal vibe, but Julia (a professional cosmetologist) still did a natural looking hair and makeup look, which gives them an extra pop.

If you’re ready to find a Maine engagement photographer who is going to help you look and feel your best all around, click here so we can chat! I provide all of my wedding couples with vendor recommendations to take the load off planning and make life easier for you!

Check out Julia’s work here! Highly recommend her for your wedding and engagement beauty needs in the Bar Harbor, Maine area!

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Coastal Engagement | Sorrento, Maine Photographer

Couples • February 28, 2024 

As a coastal Maine engagement photographer, I am always drawn to the charm and tranquility of the seaside. In the picturesque coastal landscape of Maine, where rugged cliffs meet the whispering waves of the Atlantic, love finds its perfect backdrop.

Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing an enchanting engagement session near a quaint dock, where boats swayed gently in the salty breeze, and champagne corks popped in celebration of a beautiful couple’s love story.

The Perfect Coastal Canvas

The couple was just visiting Chris’ hometown of Sorrento (from Virginia!), they chose the perfect evening and location to capture the true essence of their engagement. Our location for the engagement session was a dock nestled in a secluded cove. The most perfect weather—a clear blue sky stretched overhead, and the sun dipped low, casting a golden hue over everything it touched.

Champagne Dreams and Doggie Delights

They brought their furry companions, two adorable dogs who were just as eager to be a part of the festivities. As we strolled along the dock, the dogs scampered ahead, their tails wagging with joy.

We paused near a cluster of boats, the salty scent of the sea mingling with the sweet aroma of champagne. The bubbly liquid danced in the sunlight, a sparkling tribute to their love.

Capturing The True Beauty

As a photographer, my goal is always to capture the raw emotion and genuine connection between couples. A great way to achieve this is by including some of your favorite things in your session. That could be an activity, your fur babies, or a celebratory drink! You can see how these photos helped make all of that come together perfectly to tell the story of their love and the evening we spent together.

Scroll through to see for yourself!

Are you looking for a coastal Maine engagement photographer? Reach out here to start planning your dreamy session!

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Nubble Light Engagement | York Beach, Maine Photographer

Couples • February 27, 2024 

In the heart of York, Maine, where the rugged coastline meets the rolling waves of the Atlantic, love found its perfect playground. Last summer, I had the pleasure of capturing the romance and playfulness of one of my future wedding couples! We had the iconic backdrop of Nubble Lighthouse and the pristine shores of Sands Beach. With their tasteful outfits, infectious personalities, and upcoming wedding day in the enchanting Bar Harbor, Maine, this engagement session was a celebration of love in its purest form that my photographer heart so happy!

Dressing For The Occassion

From the moment Kristina and Andrew stepped in front of my camera, their love story unfolded like a fairytale. Their complementary outfits perfectly mirrored their personalities—Kristina in a flowing, white sundress that caught the ocean breeze just right, and Andrew in a crisp button-down shirt paired with slacks and Gucci loafers. Later slipping into a more casual, yet tasteful look for their second location. They radiated a sense of effortless elegance and charm all around.

Nubble Lighthouse: A Beacon of Love

Our first stop was the iconic Nubble Lighthouse, its white-washed facade standing tall against the azure sky. As Kristina and Andrew twirled and giggled in each other’s arms, the lighthouse served as a timeless symbol of their enduring love and commitment. We captured moments of pure joy and affection that illuminated the landscape like the lighthouse beacon itself.

Sand Beach: Where Love Meets the Sea

Next, we ventured to the tranquil shores of Short Sands Beach. The soft golden sands met the reflecting sky on the waterline. They embraced the playful spirit of their love here by kicking off their shoes and running hand in hand along the water’s edge.

Looking Ahead to Bar Harbor

As the sun dipped low on the horizon, we couldn’t help but feel excited for what the future held. We chatted about their plans for their upcoming wedding day in the charming town of Bar Harbor, Maine—a picturesque seaside destination known for its quaint shops, stunning vistas, and timeless beauty. With its breathtaking landscapes and romantic ambiance, Bar Harbor will be the perfect setting for their wedding day!

Pro Tip –

Be yourself. Show off your goofy personalities to truly capture the essence of your relationship. We laughed so much during this session, and knowing their personalities more will help me tell their story on a deeper level.

I am so excited to celebrate more at the Atlantic Oceanside Hotel and Event Center in Bar Harbor this summer!

If you’re looking for a Bar Harbor or York, Maine photographer who specializes in fun, romantic, coastal weddings – you’re in the right place! Inquire here to work together!

coastal maine engaged couple nubble light york beach

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Romantic & Adventurous Engagement Session in Acadia National Park

Couples • September 8, 2023 

How Your Engagement Session Can Be Both Adventurous and Romantic:

Your engagement marks the beginning of a thrilling journey—a journey filled with love, excitement, and endless possibilities. As you prepare to embark on this new chapter together, why not kick off the celebration with an engagement session that’s as adventurous as it is romantic? From scaling majestic mountains to strolling along sun-kissed beaches, there are countless ways to infuse your photo session with a sense of adventure while capturing the deep connection and intimacy you share as a couple. Here’s how your engagement session can be both adventurous and romantic:

Embrace the Great Outdoors

One of the best ways to add an adventurous flair to your engagement session is by taking it outdoors. Whether you’re avid hikers, nature enthusiasts, or simply love spending time in the great outdoors, there’s something undeniably romantic about exploring the beauty of nature together. Consider venturing into the wilderness for a hike to a stunning overlook, or the cliffs of Acadia National Park. Or, if you prefer a more relaxed setting, opt for a leisurely stroll through a scenic park or along a picturesque shoreline, hand in hand with your partner.

Incorporate Your Shared Hobbies and Interests

Another way to infuse your engagement session with adventure and romance is by incorporating your shared hobbies and interests. Whether you’re passionate about hiking, kayaking, or nature picnics, let your favorite activities inspire the theme and setting of your photo session. Imagine sipping champagne and sharing charcuterie on a picnic, or sharing a tender moment atop a rugged cliff overlooking the ocean. By incorporating elements of your shared passions into your engagement session, you’ll not only create unforgettable memories but also showcase the unique bond and connection you share as a couple.

It’s these candid moments of love and tenderness that truly capture the essence of your relationship. Be present in the moment, embrace the beauty of your surroundings, and let your love for each other shine in the photos.

Make It Your Own

Ultimately, your engagement session is an opportunity to celebrate your love story in a way that feels authentic and meaningful to you as a couple. Whether you’re scaling mountaintops, exploring hidden treasures, or simply enjoying each other’s company in a familiar setting, infuse your photo session with elements that reflect your unique journey together. Embrace adventure, cherish romance, and above all, savor the joy of beginning this new chapter of your lives hand in hand.

This session was the perfection depiction on their love, and translated more so in their wedding photos (view those here)! Ready for a romantic adventure? Let’s connect to find the perfect place to make it happen!

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Lighthouse Engagement Session in Portland, Maine

Couples • August 18, 2023 

Engagement photos at a sentimental location, make for extra special memories – for this couple, that was Bug Light Park in South Portland, Maine.

In the journey of love, certain places hold a special significance—a reminder of cherished memories, shared laughter, and the bonds that tie two hearts together. For this couple, the decision to capture their engagement at a lighthouse near their first apartment was more than just a choice of location—it was a tribute to the love story they had built together, one step at a time.

A Walk Down Memory Lane

As they strolled hand in hand along the winding paths that led to the lighthouse, the couple couldn’t help but feel a rush of nostalgia wash over them. It was here, near their first apartment, that they had embarked on countless walks with their beloved dogs, exploring the neighborhood and discovering hidden treasures along the way. Each step they took was a testament to the journey they had shared—the ups and downs, the laughter and tears, and the unwavering support they had offered each other through it all.

A Beacon of Love and Light

Perched majestically against the backdrop of the ocean, the lighthouse stood as a symbol of hope, guidance, and enduring love—a beacon that had watched over their relationship from the very beginning. As they posed for photographs beneath its towering presence, the couple felt a profound sense of gratitude for the love that had brought them together and the countless memories they had created along the way. With the salty breeze in their hair and the sound of crashing waves in the distance, they knew that this moment would be etched in their hearts forever.

As a couple, what kind of location will you choose for your engagement session? I’m always happy to help my couples brainstorm ideas to help tell their personal story. Get it touch!

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E+T – Romantic Cliffside Engagement Session | Bar Harbor, Maine Engagement Photographer

Couples • December 27, 2022 

Ellie + Trevor came dressed to impress and the result left me swooning! Their trendy, yet timeless outfits paired so nicely together – they chose solid colors to pop against the rigid coastal backdrop in Acadia National Park. Her pale blue dress, with minimally textured sleeves, complimented his neutral colored outfit of a long sleeve button up tucked into fitted dress pants. This outfit combination gave an elegant, sophisticated feel for this newly engaged couple. I love being a Bar Harbor Maine Engagement Photographer!

Prior to their session, Ellie informed that they’re usually super awkward in front of the camera and don’t know how to pose. I quickly reminded her that it’s totally normal to feel that way and that’s what I’m there for – to walk you through the entire process, make you feel comfortable, and have lots of fun while we’re doing it!

By the end of their session, they were so relaxed, giggling and their love and excitement was really shining through. Although, even at the start of their session, you would never know they were nervous, these two are natural beauties.

Scroll through to see for yourself!

Looking for a Bar Harbor Maine Engagement Photographer? Contact me today!

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