I decided to create this blog post for my couples in the Poconos and Lehigh Valley PA area and for couples around the world that are about to start their engagement session journey. These are my top 7 tips to make sure you are ready for a fun and epic time.
Wear something comfortable.
You likely heard this suggestion or saw it somewhere before, but it is always the first thing I recommend to my couples. The outfit you choose on the day of your engagement session should be comfortable and represents you and your unique style. Ladies, your outfit should flow nicely and not be so constrictive, especially when we are shooting outdoors. Trust me, and you will thank me later.
Wear colors that compliment each other. Neutral solid colors are always a safe bet! My wife tells me that I should compliment her and wait to pick an outfit before we go out on a date. We want to feel like a million bucks! Consider bringing two outfits for even more options. The engagement session should feel relaxed and comfortable, which brings me to my next tip...
Make a Day out of it!
On the day of your photo session, you should plan a date out of it! Start the day with a fun brunch at your favorite restaurant, try some wine at your favorite winery, or maybe a beer flight at your favorite brewery. I always love to tell my couples to do fun little activities leading up to the engagement session. Do something you both enjoy! After the session, I still like to say to my couples to go out and relax! You may get a little tired after an hour of being in front of the camera, so I always recommend a dinner/movie to end your perfect date.
Iron or Steam Press it.
Iron or Steam those clothes before your session! It makes you look so much better! No one likes to see those wrinkles in your shirts. Beautiful, Clean, and wrinkle-free outfits make for a better overall photo. Your photographer will thank you for taking the extra step to look your best.
Set the Scene
Location. Location. Location. Before you decide that the public park is the best for your engagement session, consider where you go and what you do as a couple. Maybe an In-House session is best for you if you both enjoy having a pizza and playing video games. Perhaps the public skate park is more your speed because your first date was at a skatepark. Maybe, you want to hike up a mountain and have breathtaking views of the city. The choice is yours! The session should be somewhere, that means a lot to you both. Stumped? Your photographer can always suggest a set of locations if you need some inspiration.
Bring Props!
You are encouraged to bring meaningful items to the session that represent you as a couple. If you are a guitarist, bring the guitar! Maybe you both enjoy reading, bring a stack of books to the session. You can even bring your pets! Yes, bring your favorite pet to the session for more fun and unique experience. The photos we create should tell the story of you as a couple. I love using unique and fun props to enhance the images you receive.
Plan for Sunset or Sunrise.
"Golden Hour." The term is widely used with photographers to describe the time of day where the sun begins to set or rise. Typically your photographer will have a time of day to start your session as the sun starts to rise or set. Pick the time that works best for you. If you make a day out of it, this will be the perfect time for your outdoor engagement session. Sunrise and sunset colors are very different. Not many are early risers, but if you want unique photos, consider scheduling a morning session with your photographer to get a magical look out of your session.
Have Fun!
It is easy to get caught up in the fact that a professional photographer is about to take your picture. It is important to remember to enjoy the experience. You are spending the day with your loved one, so think about being in the moment and know that awesome memories are on their way to you soon!
I just added a small bonus tip on how to look natural during your engagement shoots! Check it out here