So after meddling with my camera and figuring out the ins and outs I was given my first opportunity to do a photo shoot of an amazing couple and two very dear friends who just got engaged this past christmas. Getting the D90 was perhaps one of the most special gifts I've received from anyone in my life. If any camera I thought that I may have been getting it was at maximum the D80 never did I think it would end up being the D90.

I was excited and ready to take some art photos. Trouble was there was no time nor was there anyone to test my camera on. So when this opportunity presented itself I became elated.

First thing I did was went online to gather a few posing ideas. We had one set back but something we could still work with and make it work was that the shots had to be done indoors because of everyone's schedules. While I would have loved to do it outside it presented me with my first challenge. Learning to work with all sources of light and learning to get the professional look without natures help.

Nate and Dawn were amazing to work with they made it a fun experience and alleviated any worries or stresses I may have had prior to the shoot. One thing that really helped was 1. having them bring a change of clothing so you're able to play with colors etc. and 2.A couple who was willing to just relax and have some fun. I find that's when the creative ideas start to come to mind not only from yourself but the couple may suggest something you may not have thought of.

What I found to be the best color for the indoors photos was actually black as it made their skin tones and the engagement ring pop. I must say the first bit was very trying on my part as I fumbled and tried to get that professional look. But we made it through and I have to say I'm rather happy with the results.

Thanks to my fiance I was able to portray the feeling and poses I was looking for by giving them an example instead of trying to 'force' them into position. You don't want to seem to pushiy and if you can have someone there who knows what your going to do to them and someone you can share the romantic part with helps a ton.

Nate and Dawn seemed like naturals and the love obviously was floating in the air. Both were glowing when they looked at eachother held eachother etc.

I tried the formal shots and some creative ones different angles and lighting changes. Also bringing them further away from the 'backdrop' and having them close up. Believe it or not I adored having them further away from the backdrop (which I really didn't notice till I reviewed the photos). The reason for that is that when they're further away I'm able to take flash shots and not have to worry about a sharp shadow immediately outlining them.

Be sure to keep your photoshoot fun and give them a bit of a break. I remember nate saying "My cheeks are getting sore" because we're friends I laughed and said 'tough' however when your with a client you have to be reminded that while your shooting the positions may not be comfortable for them and smiling may begin to hurt if you make them smile for a straight hour.

This was my first couple shot ever and i have to say I had a TON of fun doing this. Here are some of the engagement shots I did with a bit of an explanation as to how they were took lighting etc.