Three Tips for Planning Your Engagement Session
Congratulations! You’re engaged!
I always encourage couples to partake in an engagement session. Most wedding photographers include engagement sessions with their packages; it’s a great way to get to know your photographer and break the ice. It’s easy to think you’re going to be awkward or “not look like the couples we see on Pinterest” and I’m here to tell you thats bologna.
All those couples you see on our feeds? That’s a mix of natural chemistry and a guidance from the photographer. And, that’s exactly what we’re going to do during your engagement session. We’ll play some music, we’ll laugh, and we’ll make sure you feel comfortable.
There are a lot of details to think about when planning a session and it can definitely become overwhelming. Well, that’s where I come. Here are my three tips for planning an engagement session. Bonus? At the end, there’s a downloadable guide to picking your perfect out.
Choose a Location that is Meaningful.
When working on choosing a location, I always tell couples to consider a few things:
where do you like to spend time together?
is there a place that inspires you?
where did you get engaged?
what was the location of your first date?
Keep in mind, some sites have photography fees and that will be built into the cost of the day. However, there are plenty of locations that have free access. From parks to restaurants or even strolling the streets of your neighbor. And, if you’re like me and love the beach, we can always do some off-roading for a beautiful sunset!
2. Decide Ahead of Time How You’ll Use the Photographs
When planning your engagement session, it’s important to note how you’ll be using these photos. If they’re going to be used for the save the date, consider using your wedding colors in the outfits you choose. If your plan is to use these photos as game day hype on Instagram, consider booking a session that allows for a few outfit changes. If you want to use these for your home together, consider a location and outfit that is timeless. Other ways you can use these photos include:
Wedding website
Prints for your engagement party/shower/etc.,
Guest Book
Thank you cards for pre-wedding gifts
3. Plan to Bring a Few Extra Items
Ladies, always bring a pair of flats you can walk in. Some of the best locations require a little walking and why should you struggle in your heels. Other items to consider:
Champagne flutes/champagne
A Blanket: not only to sit on but if youre session is in the colder months you can bundle and be all cute about it
If you plan on incorporating your fur baby, and I always encourage that, bring some treats that I can work with it.
And, now for the outfits. Since that could cover an entire blog post, I’ve made it easy: I compiled a guide. And, this is from experience. My first ever engagement session, the couple completely clashed and the groom was wearing a logo. While it was authentic to them and the photos are still great, I’ve learned a lot since then and I’m here to give you all my tips and tricks. Just remember, even before the session, we’ll work together to plan your outfit (or, outfits) for the day. The main goal is to wear an outfit that complements the setting and that you’re comfortable in. I encourage you to play with layers, textures and to wear something authentic to yourself. If you’re a girl who likes to wear black, who says you can’t at your engagement sessions? This is your time; allow it to reflect your authentic self.