When you are prepping for your engagement session, there are a few things to keep in mind. This shoot has no pressure to it and should be FUN! This is my chance to get to know more about you and it’s your chance to get to know me and how I work! I recommend my couples show up around 20 minutes before the start of your shoot. That way we can chat and I can tell you everything you need to know before we start shooting! Couples who have engagement sessions with me are absolute PROS once we reach the wedding day because they already know the poses and what to expect!
Here are some tips and tricks to make sure you are 100% prepared for your engagement session!
- Location and Timing
Since I am a natural light photographer, the best time to take portraits is normally around 2 hours before sunset. As the sun dips down lower and lower, the light becomes very soft and glowy which fits perfectly with my style. It also gives you ample time for portraits with lots of variety! Sunset lighting is the type of light that ensures soft romantic portraits! This is why it’s REALLY important to show up early or on time because neither of us want to miss out on the light. As for locations, I love locations that aren’t as crowded and are very open. It’s easier for us to run around, be ourselves, and have fun! I understand this isn’t always the case, and I have worked in less than ideal locations before… but I’ve always found a way to make it work! So don’t worry about a thing, I got you!
- Trust
One thing I always want my clients to know is I COMPLETELY understand you’re not models. I don’t expect you to be pros at this. I work with normal, every day couples ALL the time! But I will say after the first 20 minutes… you will be pros! It takes my couples around 20 minutes to warm up and relax and I tell them the first 20 minutes always feel awkward! Because it’s not everyday you’re out in the middle of a field nose to nose with your fiancé and I get that hahah! I know you are going to be great at this and there’s no way to mess this up!
- Prepping Your Groom
I have seen time and time again that it’s not normally the guy getting excited over taking pictures. It does happen, but it’s not common. Most of the time they’re just not prepared and don’t know what to expect. By sitting down with him and showing him some of my work and the extent of an engagement session, it’s going to make a lot more sense to him. A lot of guys assume engagement pictures are a couple shots smiling at the camera and that’s it. But it is SO much more than that. It’s an experience that prepares you for your wedding day. So make sure you sit down with him and explain this to him.
- Hair, Makeup, and Getting Ready
Some brides choose to get professional hair and makeup done before their engagement session. I highly recommend this because it is definitely a confidence booster and come on… who doesn’t love getting pampered every now and then?! But if this doesn’t sound like you this is totally fine! If you are doing your own makeup, here are some tips to make sure everything photographs nicely.
-Try to apply face makeup evenly so it doesn’t look patchy. Using a beauty sponge is the best way to go!
-Hands are incorporated in a lot of my poses so don’t neglect your nails! Neutral or lighter colors photograph the best!
-Add a tiny bit more eye makeup than you usually would. Sometimes when it’s lightly applied, the camera doesn’t pick it up. You can wear false lashes or bring extra mascara/eyeliner for touch ups!
Also… I will be taking ring shots of your ring while you change into your second outfit! Make sure it’s not dirty because it will photograph that way.
- Outfits
Most engagement sessions consist of two outfits. One casual and one dressier. This adds a ton of variety to your session and leaves you with so many more options. Avoid patterns and crazy bright colors… believe me when I tell you they don’t photograph well. I also try to tell my couples to try and coordinate their outfits instead of match. But most importantly, make sure you are comfortable and feel like yourself! Not sure what to wear? I help all my couples with a style guide so they look picture perfect!
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