Amanda and Mike | Engagement Session on the Indian River Inlet

Amanda and Mike's engagement session at the Indian

River Inlet didn't go as planned.

Not The Beach Please

When Amanda and I started planning for the engagement session, we talked about different places to go that would be fun and meaningful. My first instinct, when thinking about a location is always the beach. Especially if my clients live near or close to it. When I mentioned the idea of photographing at the beach Amanda wasn't particularly enthusiastic about it.

Baby It Is Still Cold Outside

Amanda recently moved to the Eastern Shore and therefore wasn't familiar with the beaches and parks by the ocean. Furthermore, we both agreed that early spring weather is unpredictable on the seaside and looking inland would be better.

Engagement Session On The River

"The one place I know off that Mike and I have visited to take the dogs is a park in Milford. It is near the river," she told me when we tried to lock the date and place down.

Was Google Map Wrong?

A quick look at Google Maps confirmed that the park had potential.

Not Meeting Requirements For The Engagement Session

I have a few items on my checklist when looking for a great location for an engagement session.

I want interesting backgrounds in some of the photos. A big, impressive tree is a great find since it can provide shade in the summertime and great architectural lines in the winter.

Open space to move around; is always a plus.

And as few spectators as possible; I love taking photos in the historic part of Lewes in the winter months but forget about taking photos in the summer. Too many people milling around.

If You First Don't Succeed

After talking to Amanda and Mike again, we decided to give the park in Milford a try.

Unfortunately, and I am sure the beautiful spring weather had something to do with it, the park was overcrowded. With not only people but seagulls as well. As I looked around I didn't see many interesting backgrounds that would hold my interest for more than one, two pictures. As to having grass to walk around on the seagulls made sure that we had to walk at our own risk!

There Is Nothing Wrong With Going Somewhere Else

Once Amanda and Mike arrived I told them about my concerns and they agreed. This wasn't the place for the session. So we took a few pictures and then thought about a better place to go to.

As luck would have it, Amanda knew of a place that had access to the river further upstream by the inlet.

"I didn't even think about it when I spoke to you," she told me. "it might be perfect for what we are wanting to do."

A Better Location

So, off we went! In pursuit of a better location. And let me shout it from the rooftop, this time I wasn't disappointed!

Finally, The Engagement Session on the Indian River Inlet

This little private community park was on top of a cliff, overlooking the Indian River! How more fabulous could it get?

We had more than one park bench to choose from, long stairs to go down on, a pier overlooking the water and so much more.

All three of us let out a sigh of relief when we got there. Not only was the view amazing, but the weather was near perfect as well. All we had to do now is have fun and take photos.

We started on the top of the cliff and worked our way down to the pier. After we finished Mike asked me if I would take photos of him and his Mustang. No, not the horse, the car!

Of course, I was more than happy to oblige. It is always special when I have the chance to take photos that are meaningful and will have real value in the years to come.