The 5 W’s of Your Engagement Photography Session
If you’ve opted for an engagement session, nice one! It’s a decision you definitely won’t regret and I promise you, we’ll have fun doing this! There are so many great reasons to have an engagement session before your wedding. Chances are, your reason will be one of my top 5…
Why have an engagement photography session?
Your engagement is a milestone worth celebrating, so why not capture that engagement-high on camera?
It’s an opportunity to get to know your photographer.
You’ll have beautiful photos to use for your wedding.
You’ll learn how to relax in front of the camera.
It’s a chance to express your personal style!
If you’re still undecided about an engagement session, head over to my previous blog post 5 reasons to have an engagement session and prepare to be convinced.
2. When to book
The timing of your session will often depend on your main reason for doing one.
If you’re planning to use the images for your Save the Date, you need to book at least 1 year before the wedding.
If you’re going to feature them in a guest book on your wedding day, book the shoot at least 3 months before the wedding to give you time to print and prep. You’ll be amazed how quickly those last couple of months go in the run up to your wedding day!
If the main purpose of the shoot for you is to get comfy in front of the camera and get to know your photographer, you can do it any time before the wedding.
3. What to wear
You want to feel your best and, most importantly, comfortable in what you’re wearing. Whether you want to run across the beach barefoot in a floaty dress, or you feel most confident in a cocktail dress and heels in the city, or a pair of jeans and trainers are your jam, you do you.
Whatever your vibe, here are a few pointers to follow:
Don’t wear anything with big branding - this shoot is all about you, not an ad for a fashion label.
Avoid busy patterns - these are tricky to work with and we want you to stand out, not clash with the background.
No twinning, please! Although coordinating clothing is a thing that can happen subconsciously between happy couples (who knew?) it’s best not to be too matchy-matchy for your engagement session.
Don’t wear all black or all white, unless you’re so trendy that you can own it and 100% flaunt it!
Do wear neutrals - these are best to work with and no, neutral doesn’t have to be boring!
Do bring your own style and individuality.
4. Where to go (and what to do )
My goal is to always capture who you are as individuals and as a couple - not just what looks good on camera. Your engagement session gives you the chance to explore your personal style while doing what you love to do! Here’s a few ideas to inspire your session…
Go for a romantic picnic. A blanket, some bubbles, a baguette and a beautiful location make for a winning set up.
If you’re an active couple, head out to sea on a SUP, sail boat or kayak. I’ll be right there with you!
Lace up your trainers and head out for a walk / hike in one of your favourite spots.
Got a 4 legged friend? Make it a dog walk – and don’t forget treats!
Love cosying up at home? Great, I’ll come to yours!
Pick somewhere scenic and let the backdrop do the talking.
Go to a place that’s meaningful to you as a couple - it will automatically bring something extra.
5. Who else to involve
Involve your HMUA and book your engagement session for the same day as your hair and make up trial – it will make you feel more put together and confident in front of the camera. Plus, you’ll be able to see how your wedding hair and make up photographs. Win-win!
p.s.
Why not make it a date night? Odds are, you’ll have put in some extra attention to detail when getting ready, so turn it into a date night when you’re both feeling your best and looking hella fresh!
