How to Create an Epic Film Noir Engagement Shoot

Film Noir, anyone? Have you ever wondered how to create a theatre-inspired engagement photoshoot? Or what time of day is best for a romantic couple session? It can be mind-boggling to try and recreate the beautiful, timeless shots you see on Pinterest as yet another day in your engagement planning process goes by. You and your partner may be trying to think outside the box and whip up something truly spectacular. The problem is you don't know where to start. Now you're left pondering how to create a timeless yet distinctive engagement photoshoot without losing your mind in the process.

In Downtown Austin, Texas, I often work with couples longing for something out of the ordinary. As a newly engaged couple, you may be looking for a photographer who can take your passions and bring them into the present. I have a desire to bring those sentiments to the forefront in every shot I take. A recent engagement photoshoot I did with Sarah and Logan got me thinking about how you, too, can share in this experience. The two met in film school (Breakfast at Tiffany's anyone ), fell in love, and began the wild adventure of wedding planning during 2020! The night fell on us as the newly engaged couple frolicked in the Historical Center, whooshing past The Paramount Theatre. After their date at Eberly, we made our way to the lively Congress Ave.

Dreaming of a noir film-inspired engagement or wedding shoot? Follow along as I uncover how to recreate Logan and Sarah's epic theatre session in the historic center of Austin, Texas. Spoiler alert, you may leave with 1960s nostalgia.

Is a motion picture style Couple Session Right for you? 

There's something genuinely magical, yes magical, about working in the wedding photography industry. I'm not very often at a loss for words, but these two take the cake! From the oh so clever wedding date of 11/11/ 22 (Did you catch that 11 +11=22). To the Jeopardy appearance on 4.20.21. For these two love birds, choosing a film-style photoshoot was crystal-clear. I challenge all my couples to brainstorm their top 3 locations. Perhaps a favorite date spot, where you shared your first kiss, or where you met your other half. When you draw from your past, the energy will shine through on camera. Take Logan and Sarah! With every take, their love for one another seemed to grow before my eyes as the camera snapped away.

What time to shoot a film engagement shoot?

Now that you and your partner have nailed down your film engagement theme in the making, it's time to map out timing. We chose to shoot by the Paramount Theatre when the sun went down for Sarah and Logan. Don't worry! We used the natural light of the sun earlier in the day when shooting at Elbery Restaurant. The beauty of a nighttime photo session is the moon's natural light reflection. Not to mention the street lights shining. Count on a call time of around 7:00pm-9:00pm CST depending on the season.

Best Black and White Photography Spots in Austin

When I met Sarah and Logan in the heart of downtown Austin on Congress Ave, it all started to flow. The moonlight hitting the road as the two crossed the empty streets to enter the Historic Paramount Theatre.

Full proof Film Noir Engagement Locations in Austin Texas

• Historic District

• Congress Avenue

• Elbery

• Paramount Theatre

• Alamo Drafthouse Cinema

What to wear to your nighttime photoshoot?

Comfort over anything is what I tell my couples. You and your partner should feel like movie stars, but not at the cost of your feet! In Sarah and Logan's case, we started shooting at Eberly in Austin. She wore a stunning mid-length black dress, while Logan complemented her in a light purple button-up shirt and black dress pants. Film-styled shoots elude timeless elegance; however, you are the stars of the show. Head to your closet and pick your 3 top favorite outfits that scream cozy chic. You and your partner are sure to bring a certain level of allure to the shoot, no problem!

Sarah and Logan are always game for an original adventure! Soon they'll be leaving the Windy City for the Big Apple, and I'll be rooting them on as their wedding date steadily approaches. Congrats to these two gems!! I cannot wait to see what we film up next.

Hi, I'm Lisa! I'm passionate about capturing authentic moments through my lens. Telling couples stories is what I do best.

Locations: Congress Avenue, Paramount Theatre, Eberly