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Engagement photos, beautiful attire, outdoors

Engagement Photos: get ready to work the camera!

Kelsey Lawler

September 23, 2020

Engagement photos are a natural step in the wedding-planning process. In fact, many photographers include them in their standard packages. But this is more than just a nice perk. Beyond gorgeous images, an engagement photo shoot is a chance to get to know your photographer, and for them to get to know you!

Why Engagement Photos?

Now’s your chance to warm up in front of the camera. It’s also an opportunity to see your photographer in action. You can work with them to establish which poses are winners and which angles you do or don’t like. Your photographer will learn just how much or how little direction you and your fiancé need so they can be prepared with how to best capture you on your big day.

The beauty of engagement photos is they are more casual and laid-back than your wedding day will be. This is a chance to photograph life as you live it, perhaps together at home or out at a favorite local haunt.

Use your engagement photos to populate your wedding website or pick the best photo to put on your save-the-date. If you live in a climate with four seasons, plan your engagement session during a time of year that’s different from your wedding. A winter shoot might give you the perfect cover for next year’s holiday card!

Dress to Impress

An engagement shoot should feel like everyday life, elevated for the camera. Be conscious of what you’re wearing and make sure you and your fiancé coordinate. Think of it this way: You want to look like you’re both going to the same party. One shouldn’t dress for a ball game while the other dresses for New Year’s Eve. Avoid logos, wild patterns, and head-to-toe monochrome.

Choose colors that flatter your skin tone. Not sure? Ask your most fashionable friend for advice! Avoid pieces that are overly trendy: that funky hat might be fun today, but you might regret it in five years. Finally, be sure to dial in the details. Steam your ensembles and be conscious of clean socks, shoes, and nail polish. To take it up a notch, treat yourself to professional hair and makeup! This is a fun excuse to splurge and really look your best.

Loosen Up

One of the perks of an engagement shoot is it should, in theory, help you feel more at ease in front of the camera more quickly on your wedding day. Take your time and don’t rush this photo session. Pick a place you and your fiancé feel connected to and comfortable in: your home, a favorite coffee shop, an antique store, outside of a local movie theater, or playing a sport. The more creative you get, the more creative your photographer can get, too!

Some tips for acting naturally: Pull out your inside jokes to make each other laugh. Listen to music you both love to help you get out of your head and into the moment. Bring any props that make you feel at ease, whether it’s your bikes, your favorite drinks, or your sweet dog.

Make it a Date

The best way to approach your shoot is to make a date of it. End your session with a favorite outing, like dinner or drinks, a movie, or a trip to the museum. It’s something to look forward to throughout the photo shoot and a chance to end the experience on a high note.

 

All photos provided by Wild Elegance Photography

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