Why + how to have a fun engagement shoot

Engagements are my most favorite type of shoot.

 It’s completely your style, it’s laid back, it’s engaging and frankly, it’s the ideal chance to build trust with your photographer. I so often hear from clients that “we’re camera shy” or “I’m just not photogenic” and most common is “Ive never done this before”. Trust me, I get it. As a fellow introvert, the idea of a stranger taking pictures of me and my partner in a more or less private experience is, well, terrifying. Most every single person feels this way! Let me assure you, that as our comfort around each other grows through the experience, this notion all but disappears.

Add a little liquid courage, and you may even walk away saying it was fun!

An engagement shoot is the perfect opportunity to get to know each other, and establish a comfort that builds towards the big day.  So how do we build this comfort? 

1-    Choose comfortable clothing that feels most ‘you’. Engagement shoots are meant to be an expression of your love for one another, whatever that means for you both. Typically, tones that photograph the best are neutral, minimal and clean. No need to be matchy-matchy (unless that’s your vibe!) but a healthy “Date Night” look is always a winner. 

2-    Bring props! This is where engagements also become dynamic and unique. Some of my favorite items might be a hat, leather jacket, picnic setup, hammock or even your furry friend! An adventure engagement can be whatever means most to you, and I strongly encourage you to ask away if you think an item might be fun. 

3-    Pick a location that speaks to you. If you find comfort and joy on a mountain, lets go. If you want a vibrant, graffiti indulgent urban backdrop Ive got some great ideas. If you’re more of a city park and chill, let’s do it. Heck I’ve even shot engagements at a Billiards Table – so if you dream it we can do it! 

All in, engagement shoots are the first step in the wedding adventure. I highly encourage booking an engagement shoot with the photographer you plan to use on your wedding day for all these reasons above, and more.