Preparing for your Engagement Session | Triangle Engagement Photographer

Triangle Engagement Photographer

By this point you probably have some of the big items crossed off your to-do list, so it’s time to celebrate with an engagement session! I highly recommend these sessions to all my couples, because they offer a fantastic opportunity for us to get to know each other before the big day. You’ll be able to see how I work, and I’ll get to see you two in action! Your personalities should come across in your wedding photos, and getting to work together before the wedding day helps make that happen. You’ll also have a chance to get used to being in front of the camera. Even if you’re not 100% comfortable at first, engagement sessions will help you feel like a posing pro before your wedding day.

These sessions are normally scheduled 2-4 months before your wedding, and they typically last about an hour and a half. I usually schedule these shoots between 5 and 7:30pm so we can catch the lovely, golden sunset light. If you’re planning a winter engagement session, however, the best light is often between 3 and 5:30pm. As we start to plan your engagement shoot, we’ll brainstorm some location ideas. I LOVE when my clients choose locations that are special to them, but don’t worry if you can’t think of anything specific. I am more than happy to suggest a few options! Don’t be afraid to suggest unique locations either…my job is to make your photos look fabulous no matter what location we choose!

If you’re nervous before your session, don’t worry…everyone is! The first few minutes of your session will feel awkward, and that’s okay! It’s my job to make you feel comfortable and make you look great.

Here are some tips to help your session be as wonderful as can be:

1. Don’t try to ‘match’ your outfit colors. Instead, go for coordinating colors that complement each other to keep the photos visually interesting.

2. Don’t be afraid of bold colors or accessories. This shoot should be totally YOU and so should your outfit! A pop of color in a necklace or a scarf if it’s colder can add a lot to your photos.

3. Make sure you’re comfortable in what you’re wearing. This goes for your outfit and your shoes. If you’re constantly thinking about whether your shirt is too tight or if this or that strap is showing you’ll have a hard time relaxing in the photos. If you are totally comfortable in your outfit, your mind is free to think about other things. We also may be walking some, so if your shoes are uncomfortable, bring some flip flops!

4. Be on time. We only have so much daylight, so let’s make the most of it!

5. Relax. You don’t have to be a pro at this! My job is to help you feel at ease and have fun. Plan dinner afterwards to make a date out of it!

6. Patterns are not a bad thing! Graphics aren’t the best for portraits, but patterns can work if they are not overwhelming or distracting.

7. If you’d like two outfits, wear the dressier one first. Many couples like to do a more casual outfit and a dressier one so you can get two different looks. I find it’s easier to start with the dressier outfit when your hair and makeup are still perfect.

8.  Empty your pockets. You don’t want to have keys or a phone showing through, so make sure you take that all out!

9. Clean the ring. I like to do a few rings shots while you change outfits, so make sure it’s nice and shiny! Many jewelry stores will do this for free, but some require a small fee. The store you got your ring from is a great place to start!