It may feel like the to-do list to plan your wedding is never-ending. And the engagement photo shoot may seem like something you just have to check off the list… but it is actually a lot more important than it seems.
The engagement shoot and the photographs you get out of them do have a lot of purposes. You can use these photos for, really, any type of occasion. But you will most likely use them for your Save the Date cards and/or guest signing books. Plus, the session will allow you to become comfortable in front of the camera so on your wedding day your pictures are nothing but natural.
Preparing and attending the engagement shoot can be overwhelming. What are you going to wear? Where do you want to have the shoot? How should you act during the session? Who should be the photographer? What props should you bring?
*take a deep breath here*
It is not as stressful as you may think. In fact, it is kinda exciting! The two of you are at the apex of your relationship and that is such a wonderful place to be. And capturing this place in your relationship with one another is very special.
That is why we, R.E.M., want you to feel as prepared and stress-free as possible for the day of your engagement shoot. We have come up with a few pointers to guide you and make your engagement shoot a success.
Choose What To Wear
Staying within your range of personal style is key. But your clothing should reflect you and your significant other’s best selves and the color scheme should be complementary of one another. We also recommend that couples stick to classic looks rather than trendy ones that could feel outdated later down the years. It is important that clothing looks timeless and flattering to the body types of the individuals.
Figure Out What Props to Bring
What makes the two of you a couple? Do the two of you have a similar interest or hobby? What about a seasonal activity that the two of you love doing together? Did you make your commitment to one another in ink? These are great places to start! Representing your unique personalities makes for amazing engagement shoots and prop ideas. Music buffs? Bring your guitar or another musical instrument! Do you both live for game night? Bring along your favorite board game and play a little! Is there a place that means a lot to you two? Have the landmark in the backdrop! There are no right or wrong props to bring. Just have fun with them.
Address Your Personal Concerns Before the Shoot
If you despise getting photos taken of yourself, express that to your photographer and let them know what it is about getting your photos taken that you hate. People, naturally, feel better about certain angles or want any physical insecurities to be masked. And that is completely okay! Photographers have tricks and ways to pull the focus away from certain areas and draw to other areas the couple and individuals feel confident about. It is about capturing photos that the couple is in love with.
Shut Out Your Photographer (Once In A While)
This may seem odd but bear with us. Your photographer will be posing the two of you in positions that are visually appealing and flattering throughout the session, however, most couples feel awkward and artificial during this process. Throughout the session, be who the both of you are naturally. Feel free to say those inside jokes that make you both laugh out loud. Give each other those hugs and kisses that neither of you could live without. The best photographs are the ones where the love between the couple is clearly visible. Just pretend the photographer does not even exist and be yourselves.
And Always Show Your Photographer Some Love
Photographers are just as eager to send you your photos as you are to receive them. But quality is a photographer’s number one priority. Well… that and making sure you are happy with your photos. Post-processing takes more time than couples initially think and there is a lot that goes into making sure those photos are nothing but gorgeous. So be patient with your photographer. Once you do get those photos, feel free to share them with your family, friends and on social media with credits given to the photographer.
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