Engagement Session Tips
She said yes. You have chosen a location for engagement photos and finally found the perfect outfits. Now it’s time to get in front of the camera. Does the thought make you cringe? Sweat? Break out in hives? RELAX. Here are a few tips to ensure that you and your partner have a successful engagement session.
Don’t look.
Most people are a bit camera shy, including myself. You are normal. “I am?” Yes, you are. One great thing to remember is that 90% of the time you don’t even have to look at the camera. Of course we have to grab a few shots of you both looking directly into the lens – you gotta make grandma happy and give her that one for her bedside table – but engagement photos are meant to show your unique personalities, your emotions, and your spark for one another. Connection is key.
Be vulnerable.
I like to tell my clients that engagement sessions are just another word for make-out sessions. There will be kissing, there will be cuddling, there may even be tears…it’s a good thing! I may tell you to whisper to your partner the last time you were proud of them. In return, your partner might whisper the last time they prayed for you. Allow those emotions to surface and you’ll have images you’ll cherish.
Let’s play.
There will be some posing, yes. But for the most part, your engagement photos should reflect the way you naturally interact as a couple. Don’t be surprised if you end up practicing your first dance in the middle of the road or play chase through an open field. A solid tickle fight is always a winner for a real crinkled-nose laugh. If there is water nearby, take off those shoes and end the session with a splash war. Have fun, be silly!
To prop or not to prop.
Props can be a great addition to your engagement photo session as long as it’s an enhancement, not a focal point. Sometimes props can become more of a distraction away from the emotional connection that we as photographers strive to capture. Your engagement photos are all about you two and the beginning of your lives together. YOU are the subject. Also, consider that we may be walking quite a bit so pack light!
Create an Inspiration Board.
Pinterest can be really helpful in nailing down the style you are hoping to achieve. Search for images that have the same or similar location you have chosen for your engagement photos. Pin poses you like and take note of the mood. If an image make your heart skip a beat – ask yourself why? Is it the colors? Emotions? Is the couple laughing? Running? Share your boards with me and let’s collaborate.
Do it up.
Again, your engagement photos are likely to be the first professional photos that you have taken together. Make it an experience. Fighting traffic after work to run home, quick dinner, change clothes, makeup in the car, all to make it by golden hour…sounds anxiety inducing, right? Instead, choose a day when you are not rushed. Spend the morning at the spa getting pampered. Consider having professional hairstyling, makeup, and a manicure. You will want those ring shots to look their best! Maybe spend the afternoon together and have an early dinner. Arrive for your engagement session relaxed and ready to have fun together, connect, and make memories.
I’ll do the rest.
Ready to book your engagement photo session? Let’s chat!
