Creating a Timeless Memory: A Checklist for Engagement Photo Sessions
Congratulations on your engagement! As you prepare for your engagement photo session, it's important to have a checklist to make sure everything runs smoothly. Here are ten things to keep in mind as you plan for your big day:
Schedule your session with flexibility. Have a few potential days in mind for your photo session as your photographer might not be available on the date you had top of mind. Also, try to schedule your session at the right time. The best time for engagement photos is usually one to two hours before sunset, when the light is soft and warm (which is known as golden hour). Your photographer will be able to help you coordinate times based on your availability.
Choose a location that matches your story. Your engagement photos should reflect your personal style and the location should be meaningful to you as a couple. Whether it's a park, beach, or a Main Street in your local downtown, make sure the location is true to your story and allows for a variety of backgrounds and settings.
Plan your outfits. Coordinating your outfits is key to making sure your photos are balanced. Choose colors and styles that complement each other and make you both feel comfortable and confident.
Make sure your hair and makeup are on point. You want to look your best for your engagement photos, so make sure to schedule a hair and makeup appointment before your session.
Get your nails done. Close-up shots of your hands with your engagement ring will be taken, so it's a good idea to get your nails done for both you and your partner. This will add a polished touch to your photos and make your hands look great.
Clean your ring. Before your photo session, make sure to give your ring a good cleaning so it sparkles in the photos. As mentioned above, there will be a ton of close up photos of your hands and cleaning your ring will ensure that it is the star of the show in your engagement photos.
Bring props and accessories. Personalize your photos by bringing along props that are meaningful to you as a couple, like a favorite book, a cozy blanket, or a bottle of champagne in celebration of your engagement.
Communicate with your photographer. Make sure to discuss your vision for the photos with your photographer and let them know your preferences. They will work with you to create the perfect engagement photos that reflect your unique relationship and tell your story.
Think about your save the dates and other prints in advance. If you're planning on using your engagement photos for save the dates or other prints, make sure to let your photographer know in advance. This way, they can frame their shots with those specific uses in mind and ensure that the photos will work well for those purposes. It's also a good idea to share samples of your save the date design or other printed materials in advance so your photographer can see the overall aesthetic and make sure the photos will coordinate well.
Bring a change of clothes. Consider bringing a change of clothes for a variety of looks during your photo session. This will give you more options for your photos and add variety to your final collection. You can also bring a different outfit for each location that you'll be visiting during the photoshoot.
By keeping these tips in mind, you'll be able to have a great time during your engagement photo session. Don't stress about it, just remember to have fun! At the end of the day, our goal as photographers is to capture you and your relationship as it is. So, instead of trying to pose or force anything, make it a fun date night with your partner. Forget about us and just enjoy each other's company, whether that means having a drink at your favorite bar, or setting up a romantic picnic in the park. We'll be there to capture all the candid moments and natural chemistry between you two, making your engagement photos truly special and authentic. Happy planning and enjoy your special day.
-J+K
