Want better engagement photos? Try these tips from Amanda Wood Photography
How long have you been photographing weddings?
I shot my first wedding in 2016 and had the most amazing time! There is just something so special about wedding days and the happiness that everyone feels it's so special to be a part of. I take pride in giving my best work capturing someone's special day while making it stress free and enjoyable. My photography style is capturing the genuine and raw emotions that happen throughout a wedding day and my experience allows me to effortlessly capture those.
How would you describe your style?
Capturing genuine and raw emotion. I like to say that my style is the perfect mix of airy and moody! I feel like so much emotion can be portrayed based on how you edit an image. I have always loved the feel moody images give off while still keeping the colors true to real life. I also love the candid shots! Sure I will get some of them both smiling and looking at the camera as well as some posed, but I live for the fun adventurous photos. Running, spinning, jumping, laughing, hugging, wrestling, you name it! Movement is my motto!
What kind of engagement sessions do you specialize in?
My kind of engagement sessions are the ones where the couples come and are just themselves: they kiss, they tease, they hug, they laugh and everything in between! I love to capture how a couple interacts: that's where you capture the love. I also am a big fan when my couple is down to get adventurous: run into the ocean, roll around a field, get a little crazy and have an adventure!
What advice can you provide to help brides prepare for the perfect engagement session?
Make the day of your engagement session a special one. Spend time pampering yourself, but also spend some quality time with your loved one. You want to show up to your session completely in love. Play your favorite music on the way there. Wear something you feel absolutely amazing in. Compliment each other and go out of your way to make the day perfect and special. You will really be able to tell in the photos if you do!
How do you help couples relax in front of the camera?
I have been photographing couples for about 7 years now and I really feel like my strength is guiding my couples. My couples ALWAYS show up and right away say, "We are not models and we do not know how to pose for the camera" THAT IS OK!! And honestly it's expected!! But no fear, I spend the entire time guiding them so their photos look effortless, natural, and fun! I also like to have my couples create a playlist of their favorite songs that we can play at their engagement session as well. That always seems to help them relax a little extra too - and I sometimes even get some bomb dance moves out of them! :) :)
What are 3 things you want brides to keep in mind while planning or on their engagement sessions?
1. Wear something that you feel absolutely amazing in. Find an outfit you have been dying to wear or buy one and treat yourself. It's always fun if it's a little different too.
2. Don't be afraid to bring something that represents you and your love: if you guys go on a lot of picnics - bring one. If you love flowers - bring a bouquet. If you guys love taking photos - bring an old camera. Props can always be fun.
3. The happier and more in love you guys are when you show up to your engagement session the better your photos will turn out! Don't stress too much about any of it. Just be in love and let your photographer do the rest :)
Venue Feature | Sleepy Ridge Weddings | Utah Wedding Venue
Easily one of the best and most elegant wedding venues in Utah, Sleepy Ridge Weddings has everything you could possibly dream in a wedding location. Check out our guide on Sleepy Ridge Utah Wedding Venue and fall in love.
Lindsey Shaun Photography
Photos: Jessa E Photography
What are some unique features of Sleepy Ridge?
Sleepy Ridge is conveniently located in the center of Utah Valley. It is not only accessible, but allows you to have your wedding, your way. We welcome outside catering and floral/decor, with no fees involved. The main level Garden Room allows access to our beautiful gardens and provides the perfect indoor/outdoor venue. The large spacious Sunset Room has vaulted ceilings and a beautiful balcony that provides breathtaking views and brilliant sunsets. With our two different rooms you'll find that you can do both small and large wedding receptions and ceremonies. Our venue is a fit for all different wedding types, and is beautiful all year round! Sleepy Ridge has a country club feel minus the cost! We help you create the wedding of your dreams, all while keeping you within your budget.
What can brides expect when they book with you?
From the minute you take a tour to planning your wedding, we are with you every step of the way. We help you with designing the room layout, event timeline, and linens. Plus, if you need additional help finding vendors, we will give you several recommendations to choose from. We are quick at returning phone calls and emails, so you never have to wait for an answer.
What do your pricing packages look like?
Summer months are May thru October, Winter months are November thru April
Garden Room and Sunset Room Summer pricing:
Monday-Wednesday- $2200
Thursday- $2700
Friday- $3500
Saturday- $3800
Garden Room Winter Pricing:
Monday- Wednesday- $1700
Thursday- $2100
Friday- $ 2500
Saturday-$3000
Sunset Room Winter Pricing:
Monday-Wednesday- $2200
Thursday- $2700
Friday- $3500
Saturday- $3800
Menus: Anthology Print Floral Design: Floral Rhapsody
What amenities do you offer?
Room rentals include; 15 guest tables and chairs, banquet tables, 2 bistro tables, onsite venue attendant, floor easels, glass hurricane centerpieces w/ battery operated candles, floor length linens in any color, set up/take down, bluetooth sound system, wireless mic, 95" tv's, warming/prep kitchen, brides room, use of grounds/building for photography, wifi, ice machine, bistro lighting, fireplace and mantle, large parking area.
Do you have onsite coordinators?
We have onsite venue attendants during the event. What do they do? They help answer any questions about building needs, help weddings/events stay on their timeline, direct guests to where the event is being held. They are there to help with ceremonies and move tables/chairs after ceremonies, luncheons and dinners. They ensure cleanup after the event is done.
Photos: Lindsey Shaun
What is the style or aesthetic of Sleepy Ridge?
Modern Elegant
What advice can you offer brides planning their weddings?
1. Pick your venue before your date whenever possible. This will allow you to book the venue of your dreams, without having to worry about availability.
2 Treat your vendors well and with respect. They are there to help you.
3. Be flexible with your wedding day timeline. Your venue and DJ can help ensure your day runs smoothly.
4. Select the theme and stick with it. Don't keep changing on the vendors.
5. If possible, check out bridal shows for inspiration and help selecting vendors. This will help relieve stress too.
6. When making appointments with vendors, make sure you keep the appointment, or reschedule in a timely manner.
Videography: Tolman Media
What's one thing you want brides to know about Sleepy Ridge?
We are in our 13th year helping couples create their dream weddings. We host over 200 weddings and events each year. If you are looking for an elegant timeless venue and seasoned weddings experts, Sleepy Ridge Weddings is the wedding venue for you.
Photos: Olive Avenue Photo
