Its not every day you spend 45 mintues to an hour in front of a camera, so you may be feeling a bit lost as you prepare for your engagement session? Here are a few tips and tricks to help you make the most of your engagement shoot.
Choosing a Location
I always tell couples to choose a location that is meaningful to them. Whether that’s the park near your home where you enjoy your nightly walks, a trail where you love to spend your weekends, the pizza place where you had your first date or even in the comfort of your home. This shoot is a reflection of you and your relationship and shows your personality as a couple. Also, a lot of couples choose a location different from what their wedding day will be like. Getting married on top of a mountain, why not opt for photos at your favorite brewery followed by a photo tour through the art district’s murals.
Because the open spaces and trails in Colorado are so beautiful and popular spots for photos, many of them require permits. Try to plan your shoot with enough lead time for us to secure any permits we may need before the shoot.
What to Wear
Whatever the location, be sure you wear clothes that are comfortable and easy to move around in, especially your footwear as we do quite a bit of walking during engagement shoots.
You know what colors and styles look best on you, but as a general rule, I tell people to avoid busy prints and patterns since they can render differently in camera. Also think about the location and colors and textures that will be present during the shoot. Getting your photos done in a gorgeous field of golden grass? Wearing a yellow or orange outfit may make you blend in instead of standing out from the scenery. And be sure your clothes are clean and wrinkle-free upon arrival.
And, if you want to do a quick costume change to switch up your look, think about the logistics of changing during the shoot as you may have to do it in a restaurant bathroom or in the back of your car.
Consider Hair & Makeup
This is a great time to do a trial run with your wedding day hair and makeup artist. You will look and feel confident after being pampered and its a great way to see how your look will translate in photos.
Bringing a Pet
I love it when couples bring their beloved pets on engagement photo shoots but bringing a dog along can add some challenges to the session. Here are a few tips on how to make it go as smoothly as possible.
- Arrive early so the dog can let out some energy, get familiar with the surroundings and do their business.
- Bring a buddy or family member who knows the dog well and can hold them while they are not in photos. Or be prepared to snap a few photos and then have your fur baby wait in the car. Photos are hard. Even for the best-trained doggos and they may need a break from the action.
- Bring treats! Bribing them can work wonders when it comes to getting them to mind and look at the camera.
- Know your pet’s limits. Are they anxios around other people or dogs? Perhaps an in-home session or a secluded park is the best option for them so as not to stress them (or you!) out during the shoot.
Have Fun
Last, but certainly not least, make sure you enjoy the process. While having your photos taken may feel a bit awkward at first, the engagement session should be one of the most fun parts of your wedding preparations! If possible leave work a little early (or take the day off!) to give yourself time to relax, grab a bite or a drink beforehand and book a dinner reservation to treat yourself afterwards. Lean in to the romance of the event and that will surely translate to sweet, romantic photos of the two of you.
