How to Prepare For Engagement Photos
This is such an exciting time!
I know this can be a somewhat stressful time trying to plan a wedding, prepare for a photoshoot, and just everyday life.
Don’t worry. This will be as painless as can be while making you look great.
I believe it’s important to be prepared and know ahead of time what you’re getting into so I’ve put together 6 tips to help you best prepare for an engagement shoot.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS
1. Location
2. Looking Good
3. Hire a Professional Photographer
4. Bring Extras
5. Have a Back Up Plan
6. Relax & Have Fun
01. Photoshoot Location
Choose a Meaningful Location
Maybe this is a spot where you had your first date, a park you walked, or any place that brings out the love you and your new fiancé share.
Time of Day
This could be at sunrise or sunset when the lighting is at its most beautiful and flattering.
Golden Hour and overcast days are my favorite but all times of the day can produce amazing light for different emotions and unique photos with the right photographer.
Learn how to Choose THE BEST TIME OF DAY FOR ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS
Color of Scenery & Season of Year
Depending on the season, the scenery can determine the look and atmosphere of your photos.
Fall and Winter can produce cozy feelings with leaves falling, snow on the ground, and the layers needed to bundle up.
Spring and summer can provide a feeling of fun and adventure with flowers blossoming, warm sunlight, and longer days.
Plants & Wildflowers
Along with the season of the year different plants and wildlife may be out and about.
Don’t be afraid to use these amazing plants and flowers as a backdrop, just be mindful to not step or lay on any flowers.
Water & Snacks
Depending on the duration of your shoot you may want to bring a small snack or eat a light meal beforehand.
As for water, I highly recommend you always bring water no matter the length of the shoot. Its always a safe bet to stay hydrated.
02. Looking Good
Dress Comfortably
It may seem obvious but it’s always a good idea to wear comfortable clothes that make you feel the most confident and loose.
Keep in mind the season of the year. The worst thing is sweating on a warm day wearing too many layers or freezing from not wearing enough layers on a cold day.
What not to wear
Stay away from big logos and slogans. They take away from you and your fiancé.
Try not to wear bright colors that don’t coordinate with each other or the scenery.
Wear an analog watch instead of a smartwatch if you’re able for a more classic and timeless look. There’s nothing worse than a bright little screen popping up distracting you from you and your partner.
Neutrals Always Win
Neutrals can mean much more than white, grey, and beige. Every color can be a neutral if you choose it's muted or toned down version.
These colors tend to complement well, making them easier to pair and allow you to stand out during your photoshoot.
Schedule Hair, Makeup, and Nail Appointments
Your engagement photoshoot is an awesome time to have a trial run with a hair stylist and makeup artist you may want on your wedding day.
This can help take some stress off of your wedding day having someone you can trust and rely on during your wedding.
Get yourself a mani pedi. You deserve it and it’ll make your engagement ring shots pop.
Bring a Change of Clothes
Depending on the length of the shoot you’ll have time to change real quick.
This can provide a different aesthetic to your engagement photos and can provide more photos with a different look.
Coordinate Don’t Match
Instead of choosing outfits that include the exact shade of color try choosing a few colors that complement each other.
My favorites are different shades of earth tones and neutral tones.
Always Be Yourself
In the end, this shoot is all about you and your loved one. Wear the outfits and pieces that make you feel confident and represent you the best.
03. Hire a Professional Photographer
Don’t Stress About Looking Awkward
If you’re worried about looking awkward don’t be! A professional photographer can make you feel comfortable in front of the camera and get the best photos of you in a candid and posed manner.
Helps prep for wedding Day
If your only experience in front of a camera was during yearbook photos (I have many stories of doing yearbook photos for you haha) this is a great time to get comfortable in front of the camera before your big day.
We know how to put together an adventure
We’re professionals and this is our passion. Our top priority is to make sure you have the best experience and capture your engagement session in the perfect way!
04. Bring Extras
Meaningful Items and loved friends
Bring those meaningful items and friends that matter most to you and your partner. I love capturing all of your story to be remembered.
Bring your pet(s)!
We all know they’re family members and need their photos taken too.
Sparkling Water
Consider bringing sparkling water to spray instead of champagne (Still bring the champagne to sip though), this just won’t leave behind a sugary environment for our small critter friends.
05. Have a Back Up Plan
Day to Night
Make sure to lookup the layout of the photoshoot location before it gets dark
I want you to look good not get lost.
In case of Inclement weather
If there’s inclement weather such as a bad storm make sure to plan ahead and be prepared to get to shelter.
An Opportunity for creativity
Don’t be afraid of rain or snow though. These can provide an opportunity for creativity and give you unique photos and a memorable story.
06. Relax and Have Fun
Have fun on the way over
Start having fun even before the shoot by listening to your favorite hype music on the drive to the location.
Liquid Courage
If you’re feeling a little tight and want to loosen up don’t be afraid to take some liquid courage!
Make It An Adventure
Above all, make it an adventure and have the time of your lives. This is an exciting time and these photos will capture the love and excitement in the best way.
Conclusion
To wrap things up, when planning your engagement photoshoot, there are a few key things to remember.
First, choose a location that holds special meaning to you and your partner, whether it's a place where you had your first date or a park you frequently visit.
The time of day and surrounding scenery can also greatly impact the look and atmosphere of your photos, so consider the season, plants and wildflowers, and water and snacks to stay hydrated and nourished during the shoot.
In terms of appearance, dress comfortably in coordinating, neutral outfits and schedule appointments for hair, makeup, and nails to ensure you look and feel your best.
You may also want to bring a change of clothes for variety in your photos. Avoid wearing clothing with big logos or slogans and try to steer clear of bright colors that don't coordinate with each other or the scenery.
Lastly, remember to be yourself and have fun during the shoot, and trust a professional photographer to capture your unique personalities and relationship in a natural and authentic way.
MEET THE AUTHOR
Benjamin is a couple and wedding photographer based in Oahu, Hawaii.
He has been capturing photos for 10 years, is a Leave No Trace Aware Photographer, and served as a Forward Observer in the US Army.
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In order to make sure your dream photos happen, it’s super important that we connect & you feel comfortable with me! The best way to do this is to reach out & schedule a call so we can learn more about each other and document the most important parts of you life.