How to Prepare your Engagement Photoshoot
I love engagement sessions for so many reasons. Placing two people in love, in front of my camera really inspires me to create romantic and beautiful photos. Doing an engagement session with me lets you see who I am and how I shoot. When you have the chance to work with your chosen photographer you get used to being in front of the camera. After we all get to know each other you will be much more comfortable and this means one less thing to stress about prior to your big day! Engagement sessions are also fun because you can totally personalize the theme to many the shoot all about you as a couple. We can personalize your shoot in many ways such as: picking a location that suits you, choosing a great outfit, and bringing special props along if you feel they would add to your look. My favourite locations are beaches, parks, and fields.
What should I wear?
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This is the perfect time to get your makeup and hair done. Think about what you might wear to a nice evening out or how you might dress for a special occasion. Long flowy maxi dresses photograph really well.
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You want your pictures to represent you and your personal style. Maybe you’ve been waiting for the right time to put on that cute summer dress that’s in your closet? Black and white clothes are always classic but don’t be afraid to wear colour! Light colours are always flattering and highly recommended!
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Keep in mind what season it is and dress accordingly.
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Bring a change of shoes if you don’t feel like you will be able to wear your “fancy” shoes for the whole shoot (especially if we have to walk through a trail or on the beach).
It’s okay to bring multiple outfits even if you don’t wear them all. Keep in mind I would like to maximize our shooting time together. Even if you don’t wear all the outfits at least you have options.
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For 1 hour shoots I often suggest wearing one outfit (Bringing 2 is a good idea if you would like to see what will match the setting best once we get there).
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For 2 hour shoots I often recommend changing half way- so wearing 2 outfits.( Bring an extra if you feel like it).
What not to wear…
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As I mentioned you definitely want your photos to represent you, but keep the following tips in mind:
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It’s best to avoid clothes with large logos or/and words
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Wearing a clothing with a bit of pattern can be flattering, but don’t go overboard.
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If you want your photos to look timeless it’s probably good skip the neon colours.
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Leave the hawaiian shirts for vacation and the cargo pants for hunting (I’m serious about this one).
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Don’t wear sweatpants, athletic wear and pyjamas. (Running shoes can stay home too).
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Dress for your body type- don’t wear ill fitting clothes. Clothes that are too baggy or too tight will stand out in photos.
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Keep the polarized glasses off. If you need them to see wear them in between shots and set up. Not during the actual photos.
Sidenote: Don’t go crazy with the tanning… A soft sun kissed glow is always nice but don’t overdue it. Burnt red skin and fake orange glows aren’t always flattering. Neither are tanlines.
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What to bring/do:
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Accessories are fun! Feel free to bring necklaces, earrings, bracelets, hair accessories, scarves or bring a hat.
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Feel free to bring a primp kit just incase you need touchups. Hairspray, a brush/comb, bobby pins, makeup just incase.
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Props are also a fabulous idea! They can help set the scene and bring out your personalities as a couple. Maybe you have a favourite book? Maybe you like wine? Maybe your fiancé (e) gave you a special gift you’d like to bring. Have a favourite flower? bring it! Cupcakes? Parasols are always pretty! Balloons and bubbles? Picnic basket? etc…
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Something to sit on if you are not comfortable sitting or the ground or worried about your outfit getting dirty.
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This is your shoot- If you have a photo inspiration board on Pinterest (on your phone) or a favourite spread from a magazine please feel free to bring it so I can see your ideas.
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I recommend making sure you’ve eaten prior to the shoot. It will keep your tummy happy and you will feel energized for our shoot. Please feel free to bring along drinks/snacks if you feel you might need them.
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Being on time is important. I often schedule multiple shoots in one day. Being on time is important especially if we are shooting in the evening and we have a limited amount of time before the sun goes down.
Final note: Don’t be afraid to have fun and think outside the box.