Julie made the first move. She’ll tell you that herself, and honestly, good for her.
She and Calen met at Haverford College as undergraduates. So when it came time to plan their engagement session, there was really only one place that made sense. They came back to where it all began.
The evening we shot was just about perfect. The campus was empty and quiet. Every tree was full and green. There was no wind. The light was that warm, golden kind you only get right before sunset. We laughed our way around campus and it felt like the most natural thing in the world.
These are the kinds of sessions I love most.
Haverford College sits on a gorgeous 216-acre campus in Haverford, Pennsylvania. It’s got stone buildings, big old trees, open fields, and little hidden paths that most people don’t even know about.
It’s also a dry arboretum, which means the trees and plants are really well cared for. That matters a lot for photos.
For engagement photos, you want variety without having to drive all over the place. Haverford gives you that all in one spot.
Because Julie and Calen actually went to school there, they knew the campus well. That made choosing spots easy. We stuck to the places that meant something to them.
The stone architecture at Haverford adds a kind of structure that balances out the softness of a sunset session. It’s a nice contrast and it photographs really well.
When the light gets low and golden right before sunset, an open field is your best friend. We used the big open spaces on campus to catch that last bit of warm light.
Sunset light is the most flattering light for outdoor photos. Aim to start your session about 60 to 90 minutes before the sun goes down. The campus also gets quieter in the evening, which means fewer people in your shots.
Haverford hosts events throughout the year. You don’t want to show up on a graduation weekend or a busy campus event day. Check ahead and pick a low-key day when foot traffic is light.
Soft, neutral tones look great against the greenery and stone at Haverford. Think warm beiges, dusty blues, soft greens, and earthy tones. Skip bright neon or very busy patterns.
If you went to Haverford, think about where you spent time together. A favorite bench, a building you had class in, a path you walked a hundred times. Those spots will always make better photos than just “pretty locations.”
Don’t rush. Plan for at least 90 minutes on campus. That gives you time to move between spots, settle into the session, and actually enjoy it. The best moments usually happen when you’re not watching the clock.
Do you need a permit to shoot at Haverford College?
It depends. Personal sessions are sometimes allowed without a formal permit, but it’s always a good idea to check with the college directly before your session. Your photographer may already have experience working there and can help you figure this out.
What time of year is best for engagement photos at Haverford?
Late spring and early fall are both really popular. Spring brings green leaves and blooms. Fall brings warm color in the trees. Summer evenings work well too, especially when the campus is quiet between semesters.
What should we wear for an outdoor engagement session?
Dress like yourselves, but think about how colors will look in photos. Coordinating (not matching) outfits work well. Avoid logos and very busy patterns. Comfortable shoes help a lot if you’ll be walking the campus.
How long does an engagement session usually take?
Most sessions run between 60 and 90 minutes. If you want multiple locations across campus, budget closer to 90 minutes or more.
Can non-alumni do engagement photos at Haverford College?
Yes. You don’t have to be an alumna to use the campus as a backdrop. It’s a beautiful spot for anyone who loves the look of a classic college campus setting.
What if it rains on our session day?
Talk to your photographer ahead of time about a backup plan. Some photographers are happy to reschedule. Others shoot in light rain, which can actually look really cool in photos. It’s worth having a plan either way.
You’ve spent your life working toward this moment and I’m confident that I’ve the best solution for you.
The right fit starts with a real conversation. Tell me about your day and I’ll reach out personally — not with a templated email, but something a little more me.
