Lights, camera, action! An important part of your wedding day is taking photos, but many couples are apprehensive about their time in the spotlight. An engagement shoot is an opportunity for you and your partner to get comfortable in front of the camera before the big day. It will give you a chance to learn and practice poses you will use on the big day, and get to know your photographer. Here are our five tips to make sure your engagement shoot is a success!
1. Don’t mix patterns
If you or your partner want to wear a patterned clothing item, the other person should wear a solid color. Conflicting patterns look busy and distract from the stars of the show - you and your partner. If your partner wears a plaid flannel, consider wearing a dress in one of the colors from the flannel.
2. Choose colors you love
These photographs are going to capture you and your partner at such an exciting stage in your lives. You will most likely want to frame these pictures, so wear colors that you would like to see in your house and that complement your decor. These are professional photos that you will be looking at for years, so choose colors that are classic and timeless, and that you won’t get sick of!
3. Bring props
Champagne, anyone?! Props add an element of visual interest to your photoshoot. Consider bringing a blanket to sit on, or a bottle of wine and glasses to toast to your new life together. Bring your engagement ring box for close up shots of your new hardware! Pets can be props, too. If you have a furry friend, you may want to include him or her in your photos.
4. Get professional hair and makeup done
Having your hair and makeup done for you by a professional can help you to feel your best in front of the camera. This special pampering time gives you time to relax and decompress before the photoshoot. Consider using your hair and makeup artists for this event to serve as an extra hair or makeup trial before the wedding.
5. Pick a perfect location
Choose a location that can give you a variety of different backgrounds in one place. Try to think of what matches your style as a couple or the aesthetic you are going for on your wedding day. Don’t choose somewhere that has limited parking or is going to require a far walk in heels. Your photographer will make sure you have permission to take pictures without a permit in your desired location.
An engagement shoot is an exciting preview of all the photography fun that is to come on your wedding day. By keeping these tips in mind and planning ahead, you will end up with beautiful photos and fond memories.