More and more couples have opted for an engagement shoot to mark the beginning of their wedding journey and to build up their arsenal of social media posts. It not only provides beautiful photos to cherish forever but also helps you get comfortable in front of the camera before your wedding day. From selecting the perfect location to coordinating outfits and choosing a photographer, here’s how to plan the perfect engagement shoot with ease!
1/ Choosing the Right Photographer
You want a sense of cohesion between your engagement and wedding album, so figuring out the photography style (bright and airy, high contrast and moody, classic film, etc.) you like will play a massive role in your decision. Typically, most wedding photographers offer an engagement shoot package, and we highly recommend looking into one of these. This way, you get a professional thoroughly accustomed to making couples feel comfortable in front of the camera, and you may find the perfect vendor to capture your wedding day!
Jessica Lynn Films2/ Choosing the Right Location
Selecting a meaningful location sets the tone for your engagement shoot. Whether it's the place you first met, a favourite park, or a bustling cityscape, picking a backdrop that resonates with both of you will help get into the mood of the shoot and prevent it from feeling like any other couples photoshoot. Consider the season and time of day for optimal lighting, availability and ambience.
Dorin Ciobanu3/ Coordinating Outfits
Coordinate your outfits to complement each other without being too matchy-matchy. You don't have to dress to the nines, but there should be consistency with both outfits. Choose colours that complement your chosen location and reflect your style.
Dorin Ciobanu4/ Planning Your Shots
Work with your photographer to plan the sequence of shots and locations within your chosen setting. Start with relaxed poses to ease into the session and capture genuine emotions. If you feel awkward with traditional poses, consider incorporating props or activities that are meaningful to your relationship and will take your mind off the camera.
Dorin Ciobanu5/ Hair and Makeup
Schedule hair and makeup trials on the shoot day to ensure you look and feel your best. If possible, aim to start early or catch the golden hour light for the most flattering photographs and allow plenty of time for preparation and travel to avoid feeling rushed. If the weather ruins your hair or your makeup runs, be ready to adapt and overcome!
6/ Have A Contingency Plan
Weather isn't always the most predictable, so it's essential to have a backup plan ready just in case. Whether you reschedule or find an indoor location as an alternative, flexibility ensures you can still capture beautiful moments regardless of the forecast.
Jessica Lynn Films7/ Relax and Enjoy
On the day of the shoot, relax and enjoy the experience together. If you or your partner aren't the most experienced at being photographed, the best thing you can do is relax and enjoy being together. Trust your photographer's guidance while letting your natural connection shine through. Also, remember that these photos are for you and your loved ones to enjoy. They don't have to be perfect or Pinterest-worthy; they just have to make you happy.
Svetlana Dubovenko8/ Post-Shoot Reflection
After the engagement shoot, take time to reflect on the experience and select your favourite images together. Consider creating a photo album or using the photos for save-the-date cards and wedding announcements.
- Gráinne