How to plan your engagement session...


Your engagement session will be so much fun, but sometimes planning for it can be a bit overwhelming. The session's goal is to take photos to show your love for each other and get to know your wedding day photographer, have something to put on your save the dates, and of course, have priceless memories! You should be able to look and feel your best on the day of your session. When you are comfortable and confident, it shows in your photos. 

Here are some tips that will help you be camera-ready!



Location


Take some time choosing an engagement shoot location. Your shoot location can be a place that represents you as a couple. Some options may include the place where you had your first date, the area where he proposed, or places that have special meaning to you as a couple. What look are you going for (example, a country look like in a field or an urban look like in front of a painted wall or brick building)? You may also want to consider the hobbies you share and how they can influence your session location. A few other things to consider for your location are: will the lighting be good, will there be many people in or around the location when you are there. If you don't have a place in mind ask your photographer for their favorite places. No matter what location you choose, make sure it is someplace you both feel comfortable.


Fresh Cuts and Color


Schedule hair appointments close to the date of the shoot. Make sure your trim and highlights are fresh and on point! However, don’t try a new style or cut right before the pictures. There is nothing worse than being stuck with hair you hate. Touch up your color, and wear your hair in the style that you feel the best in. Most of the time, you can’t go wrong with just wearing it down.


Get Your Nails Done


There are bound to be some close-up shots of your hands, so it is essential to have your nails done. If you do not have time to get to the salon for a manicure, a simple home polish with a top coat will work too!


Clean the Ring


I will capture your beautiful new engagement ring in many photos, so make sure it's clean and sparkly for your shoot. An easy way to do this is by using a toothbrush and toothpaste. Put the paste on the brush and brush it for a few seconds, then rinse and look at that new shine!


Outfits


Your location and the theme of your shoot will play a role in the outfits you choose. Select outfits appropriate for your location; I recommend two outfits, one dressy and one casual. This will give you a couple of completely different looks for a much larger variety of portraits. Think about selecting softer, lighter tones and more muted shades. Avoiding ultra-bright, bold colors and graphic t-shirts will help bring all the attention to your faces and let the eye focus on the way you feel about each other.


Accessorize


While planning your outfits, don't forget to include some accessories that coordinate. This can range from a simple necklace and earrings to hats, scarves, jackets, etc. Not only will these items add texture to your photos, but they also give your hands other things to do (like grabbing the edge of your jacket, tip of your hat, etc.). This can also help make you have more photos looks without changing a ton.


Make-Up


This is one time when you want to go a little heavy on the makeup. Light makeup will not show up in your photos. So go ahead and add some color. Don't forget about touch-ups. You never know when you may need to touch up your lipstick or blot your face to get rid: of excess oil and sweat. So come prepared with makeup and blotting paper.


Most importantly don't stress, be yourself, and enjoy the moments with your love!