Preparing for your engagement photo shoot
Having your picture taken is a little intimidating, even when it’s just a quick snapshot on a friend’s phone. We all want to look nice, make sure nothing is stuck in our teeth, and hope our hair decides to cooperate that day. If you’re feeling nervous about your upcoming engagement session, you’re in good company. Almost every couple I work with feels a few butterflies beforehand.
I want you to walk into your session feeling excited instead of stressed. So I’ve put together answers to the questions I hear most often, along with a few tips for handling the nerves.
When should we schedule our session?
If you can swing it, aim for golden hour. That’s the hour or so after sunrise or before sunset when the light is at its most stunning. It’s bright and warm, the sun sits low and behind you, and it adds a gorgeous glow to skin tones, greenery, and everything in between. It’s a favorite of mine and of most photographers I know, and it’s the reason so many photos you love look the way they do.
Sunrise sessions have their own perks: quieter locations, fewer crowds, and a calm, peaceful feel. Sunset sessions tend to be easier on schedules, and you’re already dressed for a nice dinner afterwards! Either one works, so pick whichever fits your schedule best.
And if the forecast is cloudy, don’t panic! Clouds act like a giant softbox (those big “flashes” in a photo studio), diffusing the light and smoothing out harsh shadows. Overcast days often produce some of the most flattering portraits, and they’re easier on your eyes, so no squinting. If the weather turns truly wet or stormy, we can always reschedule. (Although rainy sessions can be beautiful too, if you’re up for it!)
How long will it take, and what should we expect?
Engagement sessions should be fun! They’re laid back and relaxed, and they’re a great way to get comfortable in front of the camera before your wedding day. It’s also a good opportunity for you and your photographer to get to know each other before your wedding day.
Plan on about an hour to an hour and a half, depending on how many outfit changes you bring. Your photographer should have suggestions for good locations (HERE are some of mine!) and will guide you through everything. You don’t need to know how to pose! Your photographer will give you simple prompts, like walking together, whispering something silly, or snuggling in close, so the moments feel natural. Most couples tell me they forgot about the camera halfway through. Some of my favorite shots happen when you two are laughing at each other.
A few tips for calming nerves:
- Focus on each other. Pretend the photographer isn’t there. The connection between you two is what makes the photos.
- Laugh a lot. Silly moments often turn into the best images.
- Don’t worry about a “perfect” smile. Real expressions always look better than stiff ones.
What should we wear?
My number one rule: stick with your personal style. You look your best when you feel like yourself, and that confidence comes through in the photos. Choose outfits you feel comfortable moving, walking, and cuddling in.
That said, an engagement session is a great opportunity to go a little bold! If you love patterns, layers, or statement accessories, wear them. Color looks fantastic in photos and it can help the two of you stand out against a location. If you’re bringing a second outfit try something that feels different from the first like dressy and then casual.
A couple of simple guidelines: coordinate your outfits instead of matching them exactly, and choose colors and styles that feel right for the two of you. This is your chance to have photos taken when you’re both feeling your best, so wear something you love!
Ready to get started?
If you have more questions I’d love to hear from you. Reach out through my contact page, and let’s get your session on the calendar!
