How to Prepare for your Engagement Photos
It’s time for your engagement photos and you couldn’t be more excited! However, you might be a bit confused on how to prepare for your session! I am excited to share all my tips and tricks on how to get ready for your engagement photos!
Without a doubt, picking an outfit, what props to bring, and choosing a location can feel overwhelming but I’m here to help! I love working with my couples on what they need to bring. I like to make sure that you can have a stress-free session.
All of my wedding packages come with a complimentary engagement session, as well as, my hand-crafted style guide. This guide will tell you exactly what to expect! Check out my services here to get started.
Why Get Engagement Photos Done
There are several benefits to having an engagement shoot. However, my top three reasons are:
1. I offer a complimentary session with my wedding packages!
2. It allows you to get to know your photographer and vice versa (I LOVE getting to know my couples).
3. You will have a better understanding of how a session runs (you’ll be pros on your wedding day).
If you want to learn more about why you should have an engagement session check out this blog post here.
Picking the Right Outfits for your Engagement Photos
1. Choose solids and avoid busy patterns!
I always recommend sticking to solids and neutral tones. Depending on the location of the shoot, I can give more specific suggestions. White and black are always a go to! For the men; khakis pair well with just about anything the ladies decide on!
2. Try on Your Outfits in Advance
Plan on trying your outfits on a few weeks prior to your engagement photos. This will ensure everything still fits properly and compliments your partner attire. It’s a good idea to check for stains and tears you may have missed on the garments. Checking this all in advance will allow you time to shop for something if need be. Don’t wait until the night before to get your attire together.
3. Think about your Location
When thinking about what to wear, make sure you consider the colors at your location. Choose outfits that pop or contrast against the colors in the background – you don’t want to get lost in it. I am happy to help you figure this out, as I know it can be a bit confusing.
My Favorite Places to Buy Engagement Session Outfits:
How to Prepare for your Engagement Photos
Being prepared for your session can help calm your nerves. Properly preparing for your session allows you to know you have done everything you can to get the best results. Preparing ahead of time allows you to relax the night before your session. It also gives you time to double check that you have everything.
1. Pack a Bag the Night Before
Make sure you pack everything you need for your engagement photos the night before. You don’t want to have to look for anything the day-of your session. You want to be able to relax up until your session or the stress will show in your photos.
2. Eat, Drink and Sleep
The biggest mistake I see people make is that they don’t eat or drink enough before their session. It is really important to eat properly so you have enough energy to have fun during your session! Additionally, make sure to get plenty of sleep so you are well rested for your session.
3. Treat Yourself: Get your Nails Done and Clean your Ring!
There are going to be several up close photos of your hands so consider getting your nails done. Cleaning your ring is an important step because it will be photographed very closely too. Don’t skip this!
4. Use this as a Trial for your Wedding Hair and Makeup
Schedule your makeup and hair trial for your engagement photos! Talk to your makeup artist and hair stylist in advance so they know the game plan! This is a great opportunity to see if your makeup and hair will hold throughout your session, and ultimately your wedding.
However, in case you don’t like how it turns out, be sure to schedule your trial in the morning, and engagement photos in the evening. This will ensure you have time to change it before our session together.
5. This Ones for the Guys!
Alright ladies – you might need to wrangle the guys into these! I know that guys generally don’t have a lot to prepare for during an engagement session. BUT there are a few things that they should do!
The first, is that I highly recommend getting a fresh haircut a few days in advance. This will help them look fresh and put together. Additionally, if they like a clean shaven look, make sure they shave the morning of the session. You don’t want noticeable stubble, if that’s not their normal. Make sure they trim their nose-hairs and eyebrows too.
Secondly, make sure they trim their fingernails. Remember they are likely going to be in those close-up hand photos as well. Maybe even talk them into getting a manicure or putting on some lotion!
And finally – make sure they have a pair of shoes that goes with what they are wearing. This can really help pull together the outfit. You will want to make sure they have formal shoes if they are wearing something dressier. If they plan on wearing something casual you will want a pair of shoes that match that vibe.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for your engagement photos can seem like a lot of work but I promise you that it will be worth it in the end! And Hey! If you are paying the big bucks for your session you should make the most of them right?? If you have any additional questions you can always reach out and I would be happy to help you!
Ready to get started planning your engagement photos?
Feel free to reach out! I would be happy to help you plan for the best engagement photos! Fill out my contact form here to get started!
