You’re Engaged! Congratulations!
Either you’re like me and you already have half the wedding planned out in your head, or you’re like the other half of the engaged population who is saying, “oh my god… now what?” Either way, it’s totally fine and completely normal! But there is one thing you should put your focus into first before getting totally fixated on the excitement of planning your big day… and that’s your engagement photos. Now not everybody decides to do an engagement photo session, but let me tell you, it is so much fun and really lets you get into that bride mood.
I feel that I am an extremely awkward person in these types of situations, posing with my fiancé in front of a photographer… weird. But there are some tips and advice that really helped me to feel so much more in my element, have fun during the session, and get beautiful photos as a result.
Tips to Nail Your Engagement Session
- Find the right photographer for you.
There are so many photographers out there! It’s important to find a photographer that is not only in your budget, but also one that you can vibe with. I’ve met a number of professional photographers and while they all might take fabulous photos; their personality makes a huge difference in how your engagement session will leave you feeling. Some photographers are quiet and shy, while others are a little more outgoing. I have learned that the more outgoing photographers can really help you to relax and let go during your session. They aren’t afraid to tell you exactly how to pose and exactly where to venture off to for your most perfect photos.
A huge plus: some photographers will include an engagement session in their price if you book your wedding day with them. If you find a photographer that you like, make sure to ask them if engagement sessions are built into the price or if they considered an add-on. - Wear an outfit that you feel amazing in.
This might sound obvious, but it’s quite honestly one of the most important things to remember for your engagement session – Wear something that makes you feel amazing, confident, and comfortable. Also, dress like yourself. Have you ever put on an outfit at home that you thought looked so trendy but as soon as you left the house you felt uncomfortable because it just wasn’t your style and you felt like you stuck out like a sore thumb? Been there. You don’t want to feel like this during your session – if you feel uncomfortable, you will look uncomfortable.
Most photographers will tell you to plan 2-3 outfits for your session. Make sure you ask your photographer in advance how many outfit changes you should be prepared for. It’s best to plan one outfit that is classy, something you would wear for a special occasion. Then choose a couple more outfits that are more laid-back. For example, cute jeans and a flowy blouse or a cozy sweater. One more thing, don’t neglect your significant other! The two of you should go over your outfit choices together to be sure that they go well with each other. You don’t want to be wearing a stunning white dress while your fiancé is wearing jeans, boots, and a flannel. - Plan your timing.
The time of day and the lighting will make a huge difference in the quality of your photos. Have you heard of golden hour? Golden hour is the period of time either right before sunset or right after sunrise when the sunlight is infused with red and gold tones. Photos taken during golden hour turn out so soft, pretty, and with a gorgeous glow. This is hands down the best time to get your pictures taken. - Consider professional hair and makeup.
Even if makeup isn’t really your thing and you prefer your hair up in a ponytail most days, consider getting professional hair and makeup for your engagement session. Photos require a little more detail and saturation than your everyday look, otherwise you might end up looking washed out. Be upfront with your makeup artist and hair stylist and let them know exactly the look you’re going for. If you want something a little more dramatic, let them know. If you want subtle tones with light foundation and a little bronzer, that’s perfect too! - Be yourself and have FUN.
It’s totally okay to search Pinterest for fun pose ideas, but don’t forget to be yourself. Each couple’s session is unique and it’s important for your photos to reflect your personalities; after all, an engagement session exists to capture the love between yourself and your significant other. If you’re a little nervous, consider making a date out of the occasion and grab a drink before you make your way to the session. If you are having fun, it will show in your pictures. Your true happiness and the love that you have for each other will shine and you will have beautiful photos to show for it.
