So you're getting engaged? Well first off, congrats!
This is one of the most exciting events of your life and I'm here to help make sure your gonna rock your session and you feel like a pro by the end of this! I reserve an even more extensive engagement guide for my couples so this is just a tip of the iceberg! (Think location recommendations, outfit mood boards, favorite accessories & props to bring, timing and weather information, lighting and more!) but, these are some of my top tips for planning your engagement session!
1. Book Your Wedding Day Coverage & Engagements at the Same Time
Most Photographers have a package with engagements and bridals included. You can end up saving quite a bit of money by doing a package deal! Your photos will also be more consistent by booking the same photographer who is doing your wedding day photos and this will look more cohesive when your hanging prints in your home!
Not only that, you'll be able to meet your wedding photographer before the wedding day, get comfortable with each other, and see how they work so you'll be much more relaxed on your big day! *Bonus Tip: Book sooner than later. Your favorite photographer's probably someone else's favorite too! The sooner you book the more likely you'll have the best pick of dates & times.
2. Plan Around The Seasons
Every season has a different look to it and climate! Do you like green rolling hills & trees, wildflowers, or are you obsessed with fall trees and magical snow? Make sure to plan ample time for the season you're going for while leaving enough time after engagements to receive your edited gallery/send out announcements. It takes most photographers 2 weeks to get your photos back to you!
3. Choose A Location
There are so many different locations to choose from! You can go a couple different routes with this. You can choose a place already special and sentimental to your relationship, you can choose a place you've always wanted to explore, or you can choose a spot based on places or scenery beautiful to you! Whatever it is, you don't have to decide alone. A great way to find an amazing location is asking your photographer for recommendations or finding inspiration from places your photographer has already photographed at! A lot of photographers are expert location scouts and spend hours looking for beautiful places!
4. Decide On Outfits
Choosing outfits can be so much fun, but also sometimes overwhelming! Don't let this stress you out and have fun with it! This is your excuse to wear something you feel amazing in! It's important to showcase your personal style and wear something you'll be super comfortable in. You'll usually be given 2-3 outfit changes. I recommend choosing a causal look, something more dressed up, and a fun outfit with no rules cause why not?
A bonus tip is to integrate your weddings vibe and color palette into your engagement outfits! Then adding accessories/details to your outfits that match your outfits can take the photos to the next level! Honest to goodness at the end of the day wear what you want, wear what makes you feel comfortable and amazing and they will turn out so good! Also, remember your photographer is in your corner. Feel free to run some options by them for some expert advice!
5. Make It A Date!
What are your passions, obsessions, etc? What is a dream date or the perfect day for you too? Make your photos more than a photo session and turn it into an experience you'll treasure with your partner! Build in some time for fun photos showcasing your love story and passions! Wether that's grabbing a couple shots at an ice cream place near your location, bringing a picnic, getting silly at your favorite thrift shop, exploring a mountain town, serenading your love with a song, picking a bouquet, bringing furry friends, roasting mallows on a campfire, etc. This will take your experience to the next level!
Congratulations!
Now you have all the tools you need to plan the most incredible engagement session. Just remember it's all about crafting an experience you'll want to remember for years to come.
If you're looking for an engagement photographer who will help you every step of the way with choosing outfits, location recommendations, brainstorming ideas with you, and personalizing your session to you I'm your girl!