It’s no secret how much I love engagement sessions.. A well-planned engagement session can be the difference between nice images and magical keepsakes. If you’re planning your engagement session, (or know someone who is) here are a few tips to guide you in the right direction.. But first,  let’s talk about why an engagement session is important to begin with.

If haven’t yet read my last blog post, (see “It’s all about the chemistry”) I talk about the importance of choosing the right photographer for you and your fiance. Once you’ve found him or her, booking your engagement session is a great way to see how your photographer interacts with and directs you doing your shoot. By the time your day comes, you’ll be super comfortable in front of the camera.

Another reason I encourage couples to book an engagement session is so that you and your fiance can have professional photos that aren’t just in your super formal wedding attire. Take the opportunity to document your love outside of your wedding day. You won’t regret it. 

1. Attire

Outfits play a super important role in your engagement session. Most photographers allow a few outfit changes and typically 2-3 is sufficient. 

Choose a few complementary colors so that outfits coordinate, but not match. Most importantly, choose colors that work well in nature. Avoid black and fluorescent/neon colors which are harsh and clash with colors found in nature. 

DITCH THE JEANS. These are your engagement pictures; dream a little! Dress up. Have fun. Don’t wear what you wear every dang day.

This one might seem obvious, but I’m going to say it anyway: Make sure you feel confident and comfortable in the outfits you choose. If you feel uncomfortable, you will look uncomfortable. It’s as simple as that.

2. Hair and Makeup

As a general tip, women’s hair typically photographs better when curled. It allows for more natural movement and doesn’t have to be perfect. Additionally, I recommend going a *little* heavier on the makeup than what you might normally wear. Many bride-to-be’s opt to hire a makeup artist so that it’s extra special. Whether you choose to hire someone or apply it yourself, be sure to pack your makeup bag for the shoot in case you need to touch up during the session.

3. Adventure, Please

Now, I can’t speak for all photographers, but in my opinion, engagement sessions are THE best when an adventure is thrown in there. Take a day off and let’s head to Yosemite, Bodega Bay, Death Valley, or the Sequoias. California is so freakin’ beautiful and diverse that if you can dream it, it’s a car ride away. I’m more than willing to go to wherever your heart’s desire is for your one-of-a-kind engagement session. So, dream big and we will absolutely make it happen.

4. Trust me

If I had a nickel for every time someone told me they’re not photogenic, well, I’d probably be rich. You might start out your shoot feeling a little awkward and that’s normal. But! If you have the right photographer, you’ll be a natural in no time. I love watching couples gain confidence as the shoot progresses with just a little direction from me and a lot of laughs. We all look like supermodels when we are with the one we love. Trust me. It’s a fact.

5. Just be You

At the end of the day, you want your photos to be the perfect representation of you! It’s okay to go the extra mile since it’s a special occasion, just remember to let your unique and beautiful light shine.

So, grab your lover and get your adventure on. I’ll meet you there.