Engagement photos will be one of the first things on your to-do list when planning your wedding. It’s about capturing your personality as a couple, and a moment in time that you’ll both remember forever. All of it can be overwhelming, but your engagement photos can also be one of the more playful and fun things you’ll get to do during the whole process. The most successful engagement sessions are the ones that tell the story of the couple, and there are so many things you can do to achieve that. The most important thing to remember is to keep it simple. Don’t overthink the details, and make sure to let yourself shine in the moment. Keep this in mind when considering your outfits, locations and props.
To get you started I’ve compiled a couple helpful tips for styling your engagement photo session with a few favorite examples from our customers:
Choosing an outfit or wardrobe:
Wear what is comfortable and what comes naturally to each of you. Pair patterns with solids, or add a pop of color with an accessory. Most clients I’ve photographed also bring about two to three outfits for a wardrobe change, but do what feels right for you and have fun with it.
The Location:
When picking out a location for your shoot, think about places that will provide a good backdrop for your story. Do you have a favorite spot in the city, or is the forest and nature your calling? Scope out a couple possibilities and discuss them with your photographer, but leave room to be spontaneous on the day of the shoot.
Incorporating Props:
Props aren’t necessary, but using a prop here and there not only adds a pop of shape and color, but also helps bring out your personality as a couple. Bring a guitar if one of you is musical, or an item that fits with the theme of your upcoming wedding. But remember, keep it sweet and simple. Don’t get too hung up on props since the two of you are all that is needed to make your photos shine.
Bring Your Pets:
Furry friends are considered family, so don’t be shy to include your dog or cat if you both feel that they are a part of your story. It’s a fun way to include them in the process and show them off, but be sure to discuss this with your photographer beforehand.
Using your Engagement Photos:
Also consider what you’ll be using your engagement photos for, such as save the dates, your wedding website or favor items for your shower, bachelorette party or reception. Here at Evermine, we have a variety of products you can personalize for any occasion. Browse products and styles before your session so you can discuss with your photographer what kind of images you’ll need.
Will you be choosing a vertical or horizontal save the date? Will you need room for text that is above or below in a favor tag or label? These are all decisions that you can make beforehand that will help your photographer capture exactly what you envision. Photographers are visual, so don’t be afraid to send them examples so you’ll both be happy with the final product. As a photographer, I work off of what inspires me in the moment, but if a client has a vision, I don’t mind incorporating their ideas because, after all, the session is about them.
No matter what you decide just be sure to have fun and enjoy yourselves in the moment. Good luck to all you happy couples!
Bobby works as in-house photographer and production designer at Evermine. When she's not behind a camera you can find her eating something delicious at a local Portland restaurant while planning her next adventure abroad.
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