Once he’s popped the question, things start happening really fast. There’s, of course, a wedding to plan and you have quite a few decisions to make. You have to find a venue, choose a caterer, and start working on your color scheme/theme. Whether your wedding is in a year or just a few months, time feels limited.
But before you get too ahead of yourself, it’s important for the happy couple to take a step back and just enjoy the moment. One of the best times to do this is during your engagement photo session.
All photography sessions are fun, but there’s something very magical about engagement photos. There’s no added stress of the wedding or pressure. It’s simply a fun, loving, carefree time!
Here are all the ins and outs you need to know about engagement photos.
Planning & Preparation
Schedule your engagement photo session between 6 months to a year before your wedding date. After all, you want the pictures ready and available when you set up your wedding website and create invites!
Some choose to take the photographs in the evening because the light is ideal right before sunset. However, your photographer will make it work no matter the time of day.
Keep in mind that most sessions last anywhere between 1-2 hours.
Location
Many couples choose a photo spot that has meaning to them, such as the location of a first date or kiss. If you don’t have a place in mind, talk to your photographer at some of their favorite places to take pictures. There are some locations that have ideal lighting, scenery, landscaping and more that help frame your engagement portraits.
Clothing & Accessories
Everyone’s style is different, so wear what makes you comfortable. However, there are a few basic rules to follow when it comes to engagement photo clothing.
- When possible, avoid bold patterns and, instead, choose solid colors.
- While it’s not necessary to completely match with your partner, try using similar colors.
- You may want to bring an outfit or two to change into halfway through the session.
- Go for simple accessories such as a silver bracelet or stud earrings. Of course, wear your engagement ring!
Poses
Most engagement sessions are quite organic in that the poses come by naturally. As you get comfortable in front of the camera, your photographer will start positioning you to maximize on your surroundings.
You’ll wind up with a mix of posed and candid pictures, some more formal and others quirky and fun. Remember, these pictures reflect your relationship and the beginning of your life together. Therefore, it’s important to talk with your photographer ahead of time so that he/she can understand your personalities and the “vibe” you’re looking for.
Suggestions From the Experts
- Don’t worry about lighting: Your photographer can work with just about any lighting out there, and that goes for rain as well. Some of the best photographs include dramatic clouds!
- Be natural: Thinking too hard about keeping your back straight, your smile perfect, and so on is a total distraction! Instead of trying to look perfect, just pretend that it’s any other day. The most natural pictures are the one’s you’ll wind up framing later on.
- Have fun: Your engagement session isn’t just a time to get to know your photographer’s style, it’s a time to get comfortable in front of the camera. So have fun, let loose, and enjoy the moment. Things are going to happen really fast over the next few months until the big day. Use these 2 hours to just be crazy in love.
If you’re interested in learning about Strawberry Wedding Photography’s wedding and engagement photo packages, take a look at our packages page or contact us today. Most of our wedding packages include an engagement session!