Engagement Session Tips
My couples tell me all the time “we’re not models!” or “we’re so awkward in front of the camera.” To which I always respond “yeah, same here.” Being in front of the camera can be nerve wracking, but don’t you worry. I’ve got your back.
Here are some tips for helping you nail your engagement photos!
Why You Should Do Engagement Photos
Engagement photos are included in my wedding packages because it’s a great opportunity for us to get to know each other before your wedding. I don’t want to show up on your big day and be a stranger! You’ll be far more comfortable knowing who will be with you all day, and I get to see firsthand how y’all connect, what you love, how you communicate, etc. The photos can be used throughout the wedding process for save the dates, announcements, your wedding website, or however you decide! We get a practice run before your wedding, and you get these incredible moments to look back on. It’s honestly just such a fun and exciting time in your life to have documented, so I love getting to offer these sessions for my couples.
Outfits
Choosing outfits for your session doesn’t have to be stressful. I usually recommend 2 different outfits: a casual outfit and one that’s more dressy and classic. But only if that’s your style! When choosing clothes to wear, make sure you’re wearing something that you’re comfortable in. When you’re not comfortable and confident in your clothes, it can come across in the photos. Soft, subtle, neutral colors are classic and timeless. They’re also easier to pair together to compliment each other instead of being matching. Know that bright colors will usually reflect back on your face, so if you choose to go that route, make sure it’s in a skirt or shoes, further from your face. Prints are a great option, but small prints are recommended. Lastly, make sure whatever you choose is seasonally appropriate! You don’t want to be wearing shorts in November, and you DEFINITELY don’t want to be wearing a sweater in June!
Consider the pros for hair & makeup
This is a great time to test out a hair and makeup artist! Find someone whose work you like and let them make you up for your photos. It will take the stress out of having to do it yourself and they usually know what will look best on camera. This is also a great time to get your nails done (and your ring cleaned!), because your hands will be in lots of photos!
Make a date out of it
My favorite tip is to make a whole day out of your photos! Brunch after your sunrise session, or dinner and drinks after your evening session are always great options. You’re already all dressed up and out of the house, so why not take advantage of the time you have together in the midst of the business that comes with planning a wedding?
Location, location, location
Feel free to brainstorm locations on your own! If you have a favorite bar or a park that you went to for your first date or the spot where he proposed, LET ME KNOW! Your session is about you and your story, so if there’s a spot you love or want to go, then I’m down. However, if you’re not sure where you want to do your photos or you need suggestions, I keep a list handy to help you out.
Don’t worry about posing
We’ll work through a variety of movement-based prompts in order to capture natural images that don’t feel forced or cookie-cutter. I want to focus on your relationship, not on telling you “ok, stand right there and smile at the camera!” Your job isn’t to worry about if you look good or not. You do, I promise. My job is to make sure you get to relax and enjoy a great time with the person you’re getting ready to marry while I capture the joy you’re feeling as you prepare for this special moment. Feel free to flirt, laugh, and play during the session.
As a matter of fact, I have no objection to straying from prompts! If y’all decide to climb a tree or jump in the ocean, just know I’ll be right there with my camera, cheering you on and snapping away. I’ll probably be laughing just as hard as y’all are!
All in all, I don’t want you to stress about engagement photos. You just show up looking all happy and in love, and I’ll take care of the rest. Let’s go hang out for a bit and have some fun!