Preparing For Your Engagement Shoot
Engagement shoots really are the dress rehearsal for your wedding, you will have the space and the time to get to know your photographer and how you feel in front of the lease, which can often take us all by surprise. It’s a time to build up that report and trust as photographer and couple so that you know you are in safe hands on your big day.
Personally they are one of my favourite type of shoots to work on as there is this playful, bright energy and we get to explore so much more as there are no pressures outside the image taking.
There are two ways to approach an engagement shoot, one is to see how it goes on the day and go with the flow, the other is to prepare and practice. Obviously we are all different people and have very different approaches to life, which is why it is so wonderfully interesting, so there is no right or wrong way to do things.
I’m sure, as I do, your photographer will have sent out a few tips and tricks and a general idea of what you you can expect, and what will be expected of you on the shoot, but incase you want a little more, or if you would like some inspiration, here are a few little tips to help you make the most of your engagement shoot:
WHAT TO WEAR - Wear something you are comfortable and confident in. If you want a new outfit, take it for a tist run and move, play, dance, run in it to make sure it works with who you are.
STYLING - Have a thing about how you want to be seen and what colours you would like to wear. While you may or may not want to be matching, it is nice to have a cohesive style so that your clothes complement the other.
PREP - Give your clothes a steam and / or. iron ahead of time to make sure they are looking their best on the day.
MAKE IT A DAY - make a day of your experience, plan a special dinner or lunch for afterwards to spend time together and enjoy the entire experience.
FEELING GOOD - Have a pampering ritual the night before, treat it as something special so that you feel your best you on the day.
MUA - Consider having a professional hair and make up session on the day - dependant on when the session starts, it can be a nice way to start the day and feel tip top.
LOCATION - Location is everything. Think about what you really love as a couple and choose places that reflect that. Love coffee? Try finding a cute coffee shop in your neighborhood. Enjoy staying at home? Opt for a comfy at-home session. The possibilities are endless!
TIMING - early mornings and sun set times are wonderful times for images, the light is beautiful and the locations are usually quiet. Although it may seem little out there - consider a 5am start to get images that will stand out form the rest.
RELAX - Don’t worry too much, you’re in good hands and your photographer will have a very detailed idea of what they are looking for, all planned out in advance.
BREATHE - If you haven’t spent a lot of time in front of a camera (and let’s face it – who has?), you may be pretty nervous. A quick way to relax while still getting great photos is to breathe, get back into the zone with the person you love, and breathe. Hold hands, look at each other and smile. Even a closed eyes moment taking stock with each other can make a beautiful image.
