Engagement Photos: Three Things You Must Know

So, your engagement photo session is fast approaching. Maybe you're a little nervous or don't quite know what to expect. You don't know what to wear....You're not good at taking photos...You've never done this before...We know all the concerns you have! Rest easy.  This list of tips for your engagement photo shoot will have you prepared to make a gorgeous engagement album that will last a lifetime!

Tip #1: Be Yourself

As your photographer, I want to capture the essence of you as a couple. The only way for that to happen is for you to relax and act natural. Talk to each other, laugh, hug and kiss, whisper sweet nothings :) , so on and and so forth. I always tell my couples not to look at the camera unless I tell them to. Many couples feel the need to pose, or hold in one spot. As your photographer, I will put you in the spot I want you, give you some direction, and start taking pictures. You shouldn't feel like you need to hold that one pose for the camera, or be perfectly still, or keep the same facial expression. Be yourselves! It will come through in pictures.

Tip #2: What to Wear

This is the question that I get asked most often by couples. First, I recommend at least one outfit change, even it is as simple as throwing on a different shirt. This will create some diversity in your engagement collection. I recommend one outfit that is a little bit fun that captures your personality, and one a little more dressy.  Next, be true to your style and don't overdo it. Inspiration and style ideas are easy to come by these days with sites like Pinterest as well as many different wedding and fashion magazines. As a couple, don't try to match your outfits too much, but just make sure that you color coordinate and your outfit choices do go together.

Tip #3: Engagement Photos Are a Must!

You need to get engagement photos, and you need to have them done by the photographer who will be shooting your wedding, and probably not for the reasons you're thinking. The engagement photo session is actually an intrical part of having your wedding day go smoothly. This is the perfect time to get to know your photographer, establish a report, get comfortable with him/her, allow them to find out your likes and dislikes. Many photographers will not even shoot a wedding without having done the engagement shoot. That shows just how important it is to photographers. It should be equally as important to you as a client to get to know your photographer and establish a good working relationship before your wedding!