As a North Carolina photographer, I recently had the honor of capturing Coleman and Alysa’s Lake Como inspired engagement portraits on his sailboat out on Lake Norman. For a few hours that afternoon, I felt like I’d been jetted away to Italy, enjoying a day on the beautiful Lake Como. Coleman took sailing classes in high school and bought his first sailboat at 18 years old! Seriously amazing. He restored it and Alysa and Coleman love being out on the boat, so it made sense to plan an engagement session all about their sailboat and time on the water. 

The vibes from Alysa and Coleman’s session transported me to Italy. They looked incredible the entire time – from chic outfits to bathing suits to elegant looks to finish out the session. With some champagne and popsicles, they enjoyed the evening before ending the night jumping into the water. This was such a dreamy engagement session and has been so inspiring! If you fall in love with the vibe of their session, make sure you read all the way to the bottom – I’ve got something special for you! 

How to Bring Lake Como Vibes for Your Portraits: Tips from a North Carolina Photographer

Choose chic clothing that coordinates.

Think about a classy suit, a chic dress, and fun glasses. If you’re not sure what to wear, check out my outfit guide! There’s somewhere to change on the boat, so you can bring more than one outfit. Something stylish is key – and remember, that the details can really sell an outfit. Alysa’s white sunglasses made her whole first outfit for me! She and Coleman brought swimsuits, and a more dramatic summer look too. Everything looked amazing on the boat and the water.

Enjoy the evening with Your North Carolina Photographer

Bring some champagne and a charcuterie spread to enjoy during your trip around the lake. Your engagement session is about more than just photos – it’s a chance to slow down and enjoy a date night together. Plus, having something to do always makes photos more enjoyable and relaxing for you. 

Don’t be afraid to take a swim. 

During the summer months, you’ll want to cool off – so bring your swim suit along! There’s something really fun about action shots and the sheer joy that comes from jumping off a boat! If you go out in the spring or fall, you’ll probably want to skip the swimming – but you can still enjoy a sexy swimsuit look. 

Enjoy a frozen treat.

Depending on where you are on Lake Norman, there’s an amazing ice cream charter boat that drives around. Keep your fingers crossed that you can flag down the boat and enjoy a frozen treat on the boat! It’s another great way to cool down and a delicious prop for your photos, too. 

Watch the sunset. Premium Light for a North Carolina Photographer

Is there anything more romantic than watching the sunset with your love? Snuggle in with a blanket or wrap, a glass of champagne, and watch the sunset on Lake Norman. The light is always amazing and it’s seriously so much fun. Don’t forget to pack your headlamps, though, because it will be dark when we get back! 

Keep date night going. (Without Your North Carolina Photographer!)

After your engagement session, keep your date night going! Lake Norman is home to some incredible places to eat and relax. Book a wine tasting afterwards and sit in rocking chairs at the Lake Norman Cottage or dinner at North Harbor Club. It’s important to enjoy the rest of the night together and just relax! Wedding planning can be so stressful, so make the most of the night you’ve got planned. 

How to Have Your Own Lake Como Inspired Engagement Portraits

Don’t have a sailboat, but want this same experience? Don’t worry, we are partnering up together to make that possible! You can book this experience May-October on Lake Norman. Here’s everything you need to know to make your Lake Como dreams come true!

• 2 hour chartered sailboat ride at Lake Norman
• Professional image editing
• High resolution digital photo gallery
• 100 edited images digital gallery
• Bottle of Champagne & fruit picnic

If you’re searching for an North Carolina Photographer (Thin Spaces) who can bring your vision to life, let’s connect. Together, we can create something truly extraordinary.