Engagement sessions have a special place in my heart. I love wedding days too, don’t get me wrong, but engagement sessions are usually much more intimate. This is where I really get to know the couple and where we get comfortable with each other. Most couples start off a little nervous or hesitant, so here’s a few tips on how to rock your engagement session.
First things first, location.
There’s a couple different routes you can go with this. Is there a place that you love to go as a couple? Maybe a coffee shop, your house, or even Target. Any place that’s played a significant role in your relationship is fair game. Alternatively, if you love to explore, pick a spot that you’d love to adventure out to. It can be as simple as the woods next to your house, or it can be a dream spot you’ve always wanted an excuse to go see. If you’re still stuck, talk to your photographer. They can help brainstorm and point you in the right direction.
Nailing the perfect outfit.
My advice is to pick something you feel comfortable and confident in. What’s your go-to outfit that makes you feel killer? Coordinate outfits by choosing complimentary colors to avoid clashing, but you don’t have to twin. Crazy patterns typically are distracting in a photo, but if that’s your jam, then let the photographer know and try to pick a simpler backdrop. Keep your location in mind, and what’s practical for that spot (heels on a hike or a dress on a windy pier at the beach might interfere with the smoothness of the session). I love using Pinterest as a reference for style. It’s full of great inspiration. Don’t put too much pressure on your outfit though. Fashion is always changing, and the point of an engagement session is to visually document your story at this point in your relationship. Just choose an outfit that allows you to be comfortable and won’t distract you from the moment.
Inspiration not replication
Okay, I know I just said use Pinterest, but to clarify, I meant for outfit inspiration. I highly recommend NOT finding couple photos on Pinterest and trying to replicate them. There are so many variables that come into play that make it very difficult to imitate and generate results that you’ll be happy with. Instead, if you fall in love with a photo, let your photographer know what it is about the photo that you like. Is it that they’re on top of a mountain with the wind blowing, or that it’s a close-up shot full of emotion? It’s important to communicate with your photographer if you have a vision, but trust them and allow them the freedom to create something that’s unique to you as a couple. You’ll love the photos so much more if it shows your personality and can’t be replicated by anyone else.
Have fun!
Engagement sessions do not have to be a stiff, posed, and painful hour of your life. They should be fun! It’s time blocked off that you and your fiancé get to spend together and reconnect. Step away from the craziness of work, wedding planning, or whatever daily distractions you deal with, and make the most of it. It can be a designated date night…just with a slightttly obtrusive third wheel carrying a camera. Depending on the couple, my engagement shoots can include listening to music, running around, drinking and/or eating. It’s a good time, and it’s meant to be enjoyed.
Hopefully you’re stoked for your engagement session if you weren’t already. Most couples take several minutes to get comfortable with a camera around. Just focus on your person, and eventually you’ll forget the camera is even there.