Step 1 - location
Where you take your engagement photos will have a huge impact on the overall feel of your gallery, so choose a background that will represent you and your future spouse. Select a place you both love- perhaps where you first met or your favorite spot for a date. A destination adventure to a mountain ridge with breathtaking sunset views can be an amazing experience! If you prefer a more urban feel, travel to the largest nearby city and dance with your love on a rooftop deck. Your wedding venue is also a great option, and it gives your photographer an opportunity to see the best portrait locations ahead of your wedding day. Truly take the time to sit and think about what you both want from the session and create a vision based on that!
Step 2 - styling
Your engagement session is designed to celebrate you and your partner, and your outfit choices will significantly affect the mood of your photos. Decide how you want your photos to feel - playful, formal, elegant, edgy, romantic, whimsical, relaxed - the list goes on! Be sure to choose clothing that highlights your best features (and your partner's 😉) that doesn't compete too much with the background. I recommend sticking with neutrals and earthy tones that always photograph beautifully and won't date your images. Avoid big patterns. Add layers, textures, and accessories for visual interest. As you begin looking at options, keep in mind that your outfit should pair well with your location of choice. I suggest bringing two/three options and consider hiring a stylist if you'd really like to take it to the next level.
Step 3 - refine
Keep hair and makeup simple. Focus on polished, natural styles that enhance your beauty. Definitely have your nails done, or at least trimmed and filed neatly for the ring shot!
Hiring a hair and makeup artist for your photo shoot can be a great way to ensure that you look your best and feel confident in front of the camera. If you have the budget for it, it's definitely worth considering. If you decide to bring in props, choose something that creates movement or shows off your personalities. Musical instruments are great! Vintage cars, flower arrangements, champagne, or blankets can add a little extra interest to your photos.
Step 4 - show off!
Engagement galleries are delivered within 3-4 weeks to give you plenty of time to choose a favorite for your Save the Date or Invitation. Your gallery includes access to a personalized print shop through which you can purchase wall art, framed prints, or large scale prints. Printed photos serve as a physical reminder of the special moments you and your partner shared, which can be especially meaningful in our increasingly digital world. I highly encourage you to print your photos! Digital images can be shared with friends and family on social media or your wedding website. I do ask that you tag me in any photos you share online. An heirloom album is also a wonderful way to bring each moment to life, giving you the ability to pass down the photo book for generations. Just think about looking through an album with your grandkids!
