my first "gig," suggestions? (trends in wedding/engagement photos?)

[n8]

My friend of 25 years (mind you all we're both 30), asked that my dad and I do his engagement photos (include my dad b/c he's a pro, ask me b/c obviously I like to do it to). Knowing him, his interests, the relationship between he and his fiance really isn't an issue, but more how to do them. I've got some ideas for doing shoots of them at their favorite bar (which is a nice small microbrew with a good atmosphere), the school where they both taught and met, their interests in sports (cubs and bears for him, cheer and dance for her), and etc... What I am curious for some feedback on is the style to do them in. I know...do my own style and my own touch and I'll be fine and they'll be happy as long as they're in focus, but I really want to produce some results that could serve as potential leads for real jobs. What are some current trends that I could look to for starting points? I plan on abusing the hell out my lensbaby, figure a lot of off angles and b&w is always a sure thing, as well as the high contrast/subdue saturation look, and some other standard ps stuff like vignetting as a frame of sorts and playing with the colors and blurs . I also want to be sure to leave room in the compositions for adding copy after wards. Even though I don't plan on making a cent on this, I'm very excited for the chance to put my hobby to use for someone else's benefit.

[n8]

wow, 27 views and no responses? maybe I just did that good of a job in my original post.

[OldClicker]

wow, 27 views and no responses? maybe I just did that good of a job in my original post.

Remember, most of the 'views' are from non-members who can't even post and traffic is the slowest on the weekend. As for my response - I know nothing about this type of photography. - TF

[jorgemonkey]

One place you can check is Flickr, just do a search for engagement photos. I also make it a point to ask the couple/client what type of photos they are looking for. If I'm taking say a senior portrait, and I've got this great park I want to shoot at, it may not turn out that great if the client wants an urban session.