“Hey, Google: find ‘engagement photo tips.'” — Me, prepping for my own engagement session as someone who takes engagement photos every day. A small disclosure: we’re all doing something for the first time eventually. That doesn’t mean we can’t have a great time, too. Here are a few quick and super fun tips for making sure you have a great time and capture your love authentically at your engagement photo session.
Remember picture day at school?
We all filed in, sat in front of a stranger, smiled into really bright lights (or tried our best), and mostly just hoped for the best.
I don’t know about you, but those days definitely didn’t make me super excited about getting my picture taken, generally speaking.
As an adult, I still find it to be a daunting task. You’re just hanging out in front of a big lens while a stranger keeps telling you to “look natural.”
So, how do we make taking pictures better and, dare I say it, fun? To up the ante, how do we make sure you shine through?
How to rock your engagement photo session: The Tips
Remember, you’re not alone. You’ve found your person (yes, I’m squealing, and no, I am not exaggerating). Lean into that knowledge. You know how to have fun with them. They know you – what makes you excited, how to make you laugh, and all your favorite inside jokes.
Here’s a quick little list that might help a little bit:
1) Bring music.
Do you like to jam? Sweet; me too! Dance, sing, and get wild. It’s your party, so dance if you want to.
2) Pick a place that you genuinely enjoy being.
In this day and age, we can be anywhere in the blink of an eye. Go for the spots that mean something to you or the national park you’ve always wanted to visit! Why not?
3) Wear what’s comfortable for your engagement photo session.
Period. That’s it. Color-wise, neutrals and earth tones will never steer you wrong. (Looking for a few more sartorial tips? Click here.)
4) Talk to your photographer.
Oh, boy howdy, I can’t stress this enough. Talk to me or whoever you’re working with–before and during the shoot! We want to help you feel comfortable! Little known fact: most of us are not huge fans of being photographed, so we understand feeling uncomfortable.
5) Think outside the box for your photos!
Hot take: Not all engagement photos have to be in the middle of a gorgeous field while you’re spinning and surrounded by wildflowers. They absolutely can be, if that is what you want.
If that isn’t you, don’t do it! Are y’all more into board games? Bring your favorite! We’ll snag a corner spot in a café and it’s game on! Do you love to cook together? I’m so here for a cozy in-home session while y’all enjoy each other’s company making a sweet home-cooked meal.
6) Consider golden hour – the one in the morning.
If you want that magical, golden glow in your photos, plan your session around golden hour, which is commonly known as the hour before sunset. Something not everyone goes for is the same gorgeous light that happens just after sunrise. The lighting during this time is soft, warm, and incredibly stunning. It’s perfect for capturing those sweet moments. Plus, you’re all ready to go for a gorgeous breakfast in town afterwards!
7) Bring momentos!
Special objects from your relationship add such a cool and personal touch to your photos! Think about bringing items that are meaningful to you both. Whether it’s your favorite coffee mugs, a picnic setup, or even your pet (especially your pet!), these little things can make your photos unique and extra fun.
The Takeaway: Make the Session YOURS
Feel free to get inventive and incorporate what makes the two of you unique into your shoot.
You’re entering an amazing wild chapter of life, and you’re taking on one heck of an adventure together. Show off what makes your relationship unlike any other. I hope these engagement photo session tips help in some small way.
All the best! Ask me anything and let’s connect!
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