Congrats! You're engaged!
And that means it’s time for engagement photos! I know it can be an exciting yet overwhelming time with all the ideas and plans rushing through your head! You may have an idea of how you want your engagement photos to look for your save-the-dates, or maybe you're lacking inspiration and are not sure where to get started. Either way, I've got you covered! Hopefully after you're finished reading this, you will feel inspired, a little less nervous, and a whole lotta prepared.
Note: This is the perfect time to get to know your photographer, their style of shooting and to start getting comfortable with them for your wedding day. Don’t be afraid to ask questions! As a photographer, I love hearing my clients concerns so I can help put their fears at ease!
Ways to use your Engagement photos
I've seen Engagement photos be used in a plethora of ways. Here is a few to consider if you plan on getting engagement photos done:
- Announcing your engagement on social media
- Wedding website for guests
- Save the dates & invitations
- Printing and framed for table decor at your wedding
- Different printed favors for wedding guests (like custom playing cards!)
- Thank you cards
- Guest book
- Other wedding stationary (menus, table numbers, etc)
- Wedding welcome board
- Displayed throughout wedding reception
- Engagement photo album
- Wedding slideshow
TIP! Ask your photographer about printing recommendations. high quality prints are more affordable than you think!
Calming the nerves
It is definitely normal to be nervous when getting professional photos done. I've been on the other side of the camera, and it can be daunting! Some couples are more shy and intimate while others are full of energy. If you're an awkward person (like me) no worries, that’s what your photographer is there to do. Create a comfortable space for you to be your true authentic selves. Don’t be hard on yourself. I photograph a lot of couples like this, and I always get them to just focus on each other, laugh a lot, kiss a lot, and I’ll do the rest. If your nerves are too bad, go out for a drink beforehand!
Choosing a time, date, and location
Think of unique locations around you that you both love and enjoy, whether it’s the record store downtown or an open field on the countryside. Think of what reflects both of your personalities. I always tell my clients, look at it as a date night, where would you want to go? Here are some ideas you can brainstorm:
- Parks by the water
- Beaches
- Downtown
- Ice cream shops
- Farmers markets
- Coffee shops
- Local food joints
- Mini golf
- At-home pizza & movie night
- Picnics
- Carnivals
- Breweries
The options are endless and should be custom to you and your fiancé. It can be as silly, fun, intense or romantic as you want it to be!
When choosing a time, be mindful of the harshness of the sun in the middle of the day. The best times to shoot are around sunrise and sunset to get that dreamy, smooth lighting. Also be mindful of what times the sun is setting and rising depending on the current season.
What to wear
You should definitely use this as an excuse to go shopping! Remember to coordinate, but don’t match. Coordinating outfits within the same color pallet will photograph much better than pure matching outfits (Unless that’s what you're going for of course!) This is also a perfect opportunity to break out those accessories you never get to wear; such as sun hats, jean jackets, etc. Remember that comfort matters more than style. You want to be comfortable and confident while also complementing each other. So if you have never worn a nice suit before, skip it and wear that band tee.
Staying prepared
Always bring a bag for the just in case situations! This can include:
- Water (especially during the summer!)
- Snacks
- Umbrella
- Comfy shoes
- Aspirin
- Comb & bobby pins
- Extra change of clothes
Other tips
- There will be ring shots! Consider treating yourself to getting your nails done
- If you are getting your hair cut / colored, schedule it a week in advance
- The day before, go to the jewelry store to get your ring cleaned. Most jewelry stores will do it for free and only takes about ten minutes
- Pack your bag and set your outfits out the night before
- Clear the evening! If you're a super outgoing couple, keep the fun going after your session and go out for a date night! And if you’re a more awkward / shy couple, treat yourselves for making it through your photo session!
When feeling anxious, just remember what it all comes down to: the love the two of you share. My favorite part of being a wedding photographer is couples letting me take a peek into their life and allowing me to photograph all their unique personalities and quirks. I know it’s hard to relax when there is a camera a few feet from your face, but think of it as a fun date accompanied by your own paparazzi and it will seem a lot more fun!