Our brides and grooms agree, having your engagement photos taken is actually a blast! However, lack of planning and preparation can make for a stressful experience. Here are a few of our expert tips to make sure your engagement session goes smoothly, and leaves you both smiling.
Hire Your Photographer
Ok, we will admit, this is the most obvious tip, but if you haven’t already, hire a photographer well in advance. Many couples opt to use the same photographer for their engagement photos as they do for their wedding day, and great photographers are scooped up quickly. Lots of photographers will offer engagement photos as a part of one of their wedding package, and if you’d like to go this route, start making calls shortly after your engagement.
Photo by Jane in the Woods
Trust your Photographer
Trust your photographer and their creative abilities. Review their portfolio in advance of your shoot, and choose your favorite photos from their collection. Additionally, let them know why you love their style, as this feedback will give them valuable direction. Do you love their use of color? What about how they incorporate landscapes into their images? Can you not get enough of their unique ability to capture a candid moment, or do you prefer a more formal setting? After you give them this feedback, let go in the moment, and trust in the creative process.
Photo by Andrew Jade
Take Time to Plan
Plan some of the details in advance to avoid rushing and stress on the day of your shoot. Pick out the location of your photos, your outfit, (or outfits), and decide how you will style your look. Drop your clothes off at the dry cleaners, and make sure to try them on side-by-side to ensure your looks coordinate. For ladies, plan on needing additional time on hair and makeup, or better yet, book your wedding trial hair and make-up the morning of your engagement shoot and let the pros pamper you! To get even more milage on your look, plan a hot date with your partner after your session wraps up.
Photo by Bradford Jones
Here's our Outfit Advice
If you are taking some of your photos in the beautiful Arizona desert, we recommend staying away from greens and browns, (except for shoes/accessories), and busy patterns. Instead, opt for a neutral or pastel look. You can throw in a pop of color with your accessories, and of course you can really personalize your look with something out-of-the-box like an ornate head or hair piece. Heels always class up any photo, and you will get an instant confidence boost while rocking a special pair of shoes. You literally cannot go too formal! The contrast of a beautiful suit and gown will look stunning in any setting. More than anything though, you need to feel great! If you don’t feel comfortable in your outfit, this will come across in your photos, so choose something that brings out your inner and outer beauty.
Photo by Magda Zofia
Pack a Day Bag
Bring water, and pack a comfortable pair of shoes. It’s important that you remain relaxed and hydrated throughout the day, as nothing will kill the energy of your photoshoot like physical discomfort. If it’s especially warm, and you are taking photos outside, consider bringing an umbrella to block the sun, and a few snacks to keep you satiated. A handheld mirror, and some supplies to touchup your look will come in handy as well. Create a packing list in advance, and you will feel more relaxed that you have everything on hand needed to have a successful shoot.
Photo by Brittany Janelle
Have Fun!
Finally, HAVE FUN! Focus on what matters, the love that you share with your partner. If you spend the day laughing and kissing, it will be difficult to take a bad photo. Laugh and play in between planned shots, as a great photographer will recognize the spontaneous moments and will be able to capture them perfectly. If you feel a bit nervous in front of the camera, just know that it’s totally normal, and ask your photographer to guide you. Trust they have your best interests at heart, and will take more than a few stunning photos of you and your finance.
Photo by Trevor Daley
Each of the photos included above is of a Sip and Twirl couple, and is by a photographer that we and our couples have genuinely enjoyed working with in the past. If you are recently engaged, we'd love to hear from you, and help you find your dream photographer! We specialize in full-service wedding planning, and are located in Scottsdale, Arizona. Reach out to us anytime at (480) 648-0663 or at info@sipandtwirl.com.