updated Sept 2023
The entire process of getting engaged is really, really, ridiculously awesome. Excitement, anticipation, joy, thoughts about the future, best moments of your life kinda feels right? Yup. Pretty much. Hang on to that, and quite frankly relish in it. The rush to get married is new and exciting but also take a moment to be present here.
The moment has come, and the love of your life has asked you to marry them. Its full of all the best things.
I always recommend to my couples, or anyone really, that if you’re planning an engagement photoshoot- to use the same photographer for your wedding day. I think it helps for a number of reasons, the most significant being that it builds trust and familiarity– which on your wedding day is huge! Plus if you’ve never really spent time in front of a camera, this helps you feel most comfortable. The number one most common comment I receive from my clients is that they were so nervous at first about being photographed – but after this session it helps IMMENSELY. It is sort of like first date jitters!
All that aside, I have created a list of the top 5 things to remember when planning your engagement photoshoot. Ready? Here we go!
Planning your outfit for this photoshoot should take a little bit of planning just so you’re not scrambling last minute. You want to feel confident, like yourself, and not stressed about the clothes you’re putting on. So give it some thought, ask a friend, or stick with that go-to outfit that makes you feel great.
When deciding what to wear for your engagement shoot, consider some of the following advice:
Wear something comfortable, as in, you’re going to feel the best in your skin and not constantly fidgeting.
Stay away from bright and bold patterns! They can be distracting in the photo.
Neutrals are always a good option, or at the very least solid color pallets.
I love offering my clients an outfit change. It adds diversity to the shoot and also fun. So I like to tell you #1 outfit is “Date Night” attire, and the other is more casual look. Think like going to a friends house for a party.
A photo of the ring is GOING to happen. So if you can, try and make sure you don’t have chipped nails and or neglected polish. Going the no polish route is totally fine if that’s your jam, just make sure that you don’t have a Cirque de Soleil scene going on.
Guys, the same applies for you.
I have lots of ideas of places for these kinds of shoots, so if you just have a general descriptor- that is totally fine! I have lots of suggestions I can give you.
However, if there is a place that is significant to the two of you by all means tell me! Whether its a first date spot, a memorable hike that you took, or just a place that feels special keep these things in mind. Also just for times’ sake, I should mention that I like to keep the shoot within an hour’s drive of Denver. So within those parameters!
Have a favorite beer you like? Props that involve a blow up Trex outfit?
BY ALL MEANS
I think these kinds of moments are the ones that are the most fun, so if you bonded over pizza on your first date and now it’s the staple of your relationship, bring it up to 11,000 ft and let’s chow.
This technically falls under the category of what to wear, but another thing to consider under the ‘props’ category would be scarves, hats, blankets, card games etc.
If the idea of being in front of a camera stresses you out, just remember, that it is my job and goal in life to make you feel your absolute best. That being said, I promise to guide you through this process and help you realize that all you have to do is be yourself.
If that isn’t enough- check out what others are saying on the subject and I guarantee that you’ll walk away from it thinking it was a blast!
Lastly, if a little liquid courage is needed, I would not say no.