A Leeds Engagement Shoot: Big Skies, Windswept Hair and a Plane Overhead
We waited in exactly the right spot until the inevitable plane climbed overhead. Holly and Mark stood face to face under a bright blue sky, the plane crossed the frame above them, and the shot came together. Not bad for a shoot just around the corner from home.
Engagement shoots close to home in Leeds
Around that time it felt as if we’d been travelling all over the place for engagement shoots. Holly and Mark’s was a lovely change from the usual couple of hours in the car. We’d been to this spot for shoots a few times before, but we love revisiting places and searching for new shots and ideas. We’re always grateful that somewhere like this is so close to home.
It’s a high, open place, with big skies, long views over the valley below, bare woodland and tall grasses that catch the light. The trees hadn’t come into leaf yet, and the sun was bright and clear. That gave us plenty of variety in a short walk, from wide frames with the two of them small against the clouds to close, windswept portraits. Other favourites near Leeds include Roundhay Park and the edges of the Harewood estate, but this one has a big-sky feel all of its own.
Big skies and windswept hair
The wind was up, which suited us perfectly. Holly’s hair blew across both their faces as Mark, in sunglasses and a sheepskin-collared jacket, held her close. We photographed them through the tall grasses with the sun flaring behind, as two small figures on the skyline, and tucked in among the bare trees. One of our favourites is in black and white: the two of them wrapped up together on the hilltop, with a great bank of white cloud piled up behind them.
And then there was the plane. Shots like that take a little patience: you find the angle, keep the couple relaxed and chatting, and wait for the sky to do its part.
Time together
Mark is away a lot for his job in the Navy, so we know time together is really important to these two. Getting the chance to capture some of that was a lovely way of getting to know them a bit better, which is what an engagement shoot is really for.
It’s amazing how well you can feel you know people after just a couple of hours. By the time we headed off for the short drive home, neither of us could wait to see Holly and Mark again at their wedding that August. Even a few months out, we were sure it would be one of the highlights of our year.
Why we love an engagement shoot close to home
If you’re planning an engagement shoot around Leeds, here’s our advice:
- Pick somewhere that means something. A favourite walk or a local viewpoint will feel more like you than somewhere you’ve never been.
- Less travel, more time. A short drive means more of your session is spent on photographs and less of it in the car.
- Be patient for the big shot. Whether it’s a plane, a break in the clouds or the sun dipping behind the grass, it’s worth waiting a few minutes.
- Dress for the weather. Hilltops are breezy, so a warm jacket, and hair you don’t mind blowing about, will keep you comfortable.
Planning your own engagement shoot or wedding?
We’d love to hear about your plans, wherever in Yorkshire you’re getting married. See more Yorkshire wedding photography, take a look at our prices, or get in touch to check your date.
See also: Wedding at Holly & Mark – Falcon Manor.
